YOU DID IT, CHILDREN AND FAMILIES WON – Adoption Provisions SAVED in Final Tax Reform Bill

Good evening Adoption Advocates,

The final tax reform bill and conference report was unveiled this evening and we are pleased to share that because of your advocacy and efforts both the adoption tax credit and the tax benefit for employer provided adoption benefits have been SAVED!

Over the past two months your advocacy convinced the House to remove its provision eliminating the adoption tax credit. Your voices convinced the Senate to leave all adoption provisions alone in its bill (preserving both the adoption tax credit and tax benefit for employer provided adoption benefits.) While the adoption tax credit was saved in the final bills that passed both chambers, the employer benefit would have been eliminated in the House bill. But again through the power of your voices in calls, e-mails, and letters, the conference committee decided to use the Senate’s version which preserved the employer adoption benefit! (See pages 111-112 of this document to read where it was preserved!)

In the end, the conference committee’s final tax reform bill saves the adoption tax credit and the tax benefit for employer provided adoption benefits! In a bill that changes many things with the tax code, Members of Congress heard from so many of you about this important issue that these adoption provisions were retained. Children and families won!

We expect Congress will vote on this legislation next week, and it is expected to pass.

This couldn’t have happened without your efforts – THANK YOU!

The ATC Working Group Executive Committee

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Adopt America Network
Christian Alliance for Orphans
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat)
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Donaldson Adoption Institute
National Council for Adoption
North American Council on Adoptable Children
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
ShowHope
Voice for Adoption

The Adoption Tax Credit has been preserved in tax reform

National Council For Adoption is excited to announce that the House of Representatives has preserved the adoption tax credit in the Chairman’s markup of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the Senate has preserved the ATC in their newly-released tax reform proposal.

Adoption is a cause that unites citizens across party lines. People with differing beliefs and priorities can all agree that children deserve the opportunity to thrive in loving, permanent families. Over the past few weeks, champions in the House and Senate have chosen to take a firm stand for children and families, insisting that the adoption tax credit remain a national priority. With 75,000 children adopted in 2014 by non-relative American parents and thousands more kinship adoptions, we know that the tax credit makes a huge, tangible difference. Families may need additional support to care for their children’s particular needs and the adoption tax credit can help reduce the financial stress associated with welcoming a child into one’s home. In fact, we ask Congress to make the tax credit refundable, which would have a bigger impact for middle- and lower-income parents.

In the past week, thousands of families, professionals, and adoption advocates have stepped forward through AdoptionTaxCredit.org to share how the adoption tax credit makes a difference. Congress has heard your voices loud and clear. We hope that advocates across the country are encouraged to see that your voices have effected change.

The journey is not over, though. These tax reform proposals are working documents and may undergo changes before they reach a final vote. If you haven’t contacted Congress about the adoption tax credit—or if it’s been a while since you last reached out—now is the perfect time to reaffirm Congress’s decision to maintain the ATC’s current availability and amount, and ask Congress to make it refundable. Go to AdoptionTaxCredit.org/Take-Action to send a message to your elected officials.

Be sure to send a word of thanks to your Members of Congress, the House Ways and Means Committee, and the Senate Finance Committee. In particular, NCFA appreciates the work on Chairman Kevin Brady and Representatives Mike Kelly, Diane Black, Trent Franks, and Danny K. Davis for their efforts to #SaveTheATC.

Below is the official statement from the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group:

WASHINGTON: Save The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group issues the following statement in response to the House Ways and Means Committee’s updated tax reform bill and the release of Senate Republicans’ proposed tax reform bill:

“We are deeply appreciative that the House Ways and Means Committee has reversed its proposed elimination of the adoption tax credit and has taken a step to support American families by retaining the adoption tax credit as part of H.R. 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Additionally, we are pleased the Senate Republican’s proposal has also retained this important tax credit.”

“As the legislative process for tax reform moves forward, Congress should ensure that any final bill maintains the current availability and amount of the adoption tax credit for all Americans that currently qualify. Anything less would result in Congress picking winners and losers among children and their families. Beyond retaining the current credit, improvements should include reinstating refundability of this credit so more middle and lower income families can benefit as they welcome a child into their home.”

“On behalf of the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group, a coalition of more than 150 adoption and family building advocates, nonprofits, attorneys, and religious organizations across the United States, we appreciate the work that Chairman Kevin Brady and Representatives Mike Kelly, Diane Black, Trent Franks, and Danny Davis did to reinstate the adoption tax credit in the House bill. We look forward to working with all Members of Congress to preserve and enhance the credit. All children deserve a forever family.”

Save the Adoption Tax Credit Call To Action

• Download Tweet Sheet in Response to Tax Reform Plan
• Download Letters to Engage the Media 

The recently unveiled House tax reform proposal, the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” would eliminate the Adoption Tax Credit! The House tax committee is set to begin considering this legislation on Monday, November 6^th, and the legislation is expected to come to the House floor shortly thereafter.

We need your help now to Save the Adoption Tax Credit! Here is how you can help:

• Send your Members of Congress a message by visiting http://AdoptionTaxCredit.org/Take-Action/. Be sure to include your name, full address, and email address so that your Members of Congress are able to respond to their constituent!
•  

If you have already contacted your Members of Congress about this issue, thank you, and please do so again! If you’ve been waiting to make your voice heard on saving the Adoption Tax Credit, now is the time to take action!

There is still time to participate in a Call to Action to save the Adoption Tax Credit! We wanted to pass along two items for you to consider using:

1. Media Toolkit – Attached is a document explaining how you can engage with local media as well as write and submit op-eds and letters to the editor from your family or organization to local publications. As a reminder, writing in your own words about the importance of the adoption tax credit and sharing your personal story is highly recommended!
2. Tweet Sheet – Attached is a document with ideas for tweets your family or organization can send out. Feel free to use them as a template for your own ideas! Also included in this document is a list of Twitter handles for every Member of Congress to save you time.

And as a reminder, please visit www.AdoptionTaxCredit.org/take-action/ to send your Members of Congress a message to Save the Adoption Tax Credit!

Thanks everyone, and please keep up the great work!

The ATC Working Group Executive Committee
American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Adopt America Network
Christian Alliance for Orphans
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat)
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Donaldson Adoption Institute
National Council for Adoption
North American Council on Adoptable Children
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
ShowHope
Voice for Adoption

Act Now: Don’t Let Congress Put Your Adoption Tax Credit In The Grave!

Congress is moving forward quickly on tax reform, and it is essential that we remind them of the importance of the Adoption Tax Credit. The “Unified Framework” recently agreed upon between the Congressional Majority and President Trump’s Administration proposes to eliminate nearly all tax credits — this means the Adoption Tax Credit is on the table. We need you to take action immediately to urge your Senators and Representative to protect the Adoption Tax Credit!

You can help in two ways:

1) Send your Members of Congress a message by visiting http://AdoptionTaxCredit.org/Take-Action/. Be sure to include your name, full address, and email address so that your Members of Congress are able to respond to their constituent!

2) Request a meeting with your Members of Congress or their staff to discuss this issue. Visit your Member’s website and make a scheduling request — you can do these meetings from your home state! If you need help scheduling a meeting, please let Ted Prettyman know (tprettyman@simsstrategies.com). These meetings are most effective in groups, so contact your fellow adoption advocates and have them join you! We can also provide you with handout information on the Adoption Tax Credit to give to the office.

Thank you for your advocacy to help save the Adoption Tax Credit!

Julie Claiborn Shull Director of Communications
National Council For Adoption

Adoption Tax Credit Briefing on April 18th, Tax Day. Invite your Members of Congress!

Dear Families,

The Executive Committee has been meeting with more congressional staff over the last few weeks about the importance of protecting the adoption tax credit (ATC) and making it refundable. We have collectively made GREAT progress on the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act (S. 950/H.R. 2434), but we still have work to do before congressional recess this summer. That will be our last chance to advance the ATC bill this Congress!

In an effort to elevate the ATC on behalf of children and families on #TaxDay2016, we have organized a joint, bipartisan congressional briefing on Capitol Hill to share the experiences of adoptive families and the importance of a refundable adoption tax credit. Senators Bob Casey, Jr. (D-PA) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Representatives Diane Black (R-TN) and Danny Davis (D-IL) will be honorary hosts of the briefing on April 18^th. Please ask your Members of Congress to send their tax, adoption and child welfare staff. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

Your phone calls and emails lead to more cosponsors of the ATC bill, which increases the likelihood that the bill will actually be considered by congressional leadership. Please continue to reach out to your Members of Congress to ask them to cosponsor. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

In other news, the IRS released a new Tip: Top Ten Facts about the Adoption Tax Credit, which addresses common questions about the current ATC and its limits. As an additional resource, read an article by Becky Wilmoth about the ATC and the need to advocate for refundability: Foster Care & The Adoption Tax Credit.

Please use this tax season to spread the word about the ATC on behalf of children and families!

Warm Regards, 

The ATC Working Group Executive Committee

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Adopt America Network
Christian Alliance for Orphans
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat)
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Donaldson Adoption Institute
National Council for Adoption
North American Council on Adoptable Children
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
ShowHope
Voice for Adoption 

#TaxDay2016

Adoption Tax Credit Briefing on April 18th, Tax Day. Invite your Members of Congress!

Dear Families,

The Executive Committee has been meeting with more congressional staff over the last few weeks about the importance of protecting the adoption tax credit (ATC) and making it refundable. We have collectively made GREAT progress on the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act (S. 950/H.R. 2434), but we still have work to do before congressional recess this summer. That will be our last chance to advance the ATC bill this Congress!

In an effort to elevate the ATC on behalf of children and families on #TaxDay2016, we have organized a joint, bipartisan congressional briefing on Capitol Hill to share the experiences of adoptive families and the importance of a refundable adoption tax credit. Senators Bob Casey, Jr. (D-PA) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Representatives Diane Black (R-TN) and Danny Davis (D-IL) will be honorary hosts of the briefing on April 18^th. Please ask your Members of Congress to send their tax, adoption and child welfare staff. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

Your phone calls and emails lead to more cosponsors of the ATC bill, which increases the likelihood that the bill will actually be considered by congressional leadership. Please continue to reach out to your Members of Congress to ask them to cosponsor. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

In other news, the IRS released a new Tip: Top Ten Facts about the Adoption Tax Credit, which addresses common questions about the current ATC and its limits. As an additional resource, read an article by Becky Wilmoth about the ATC and the need to advocate for refundability: Foster Care & The Adoption Tax Credit.

Please use this tax season to spread the word about the ATC on behalf of children and families!

Warm Regards, 

The ATC Working Group Executive Committee

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Adopt America Network
Christian Alliance for Orphans
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat)
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Donaldson Adoption Institute
National Council for Adoption
North American Council on Adoptable Children
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
ShowHope
Voice for Adoption 

#TaxDay2016

Adoption Tax Credit Briefing on April 18th, Tax Day. Invite your Members of Congress!

Dear Families,

The Executive Committee has been meeting with more congressional staff over the last few weeks about the importance of protecting the adoption tax credit (ATC) and making it refundable. We have collectively made GREAT progress on the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act (S. 950/H.R. 2434), but we still have work to do before congressional recess this summer. That will be our last chance to advance the ATC bill this Congress!

In an effort to elevate the ATC on behalf of children and families on #TaxDay2016, we have organized a joint, bipartisan congressional briefing on Capitol Hill to share the experiences of adoptive families and the importance of a refundable adoption tax credit. Senators Bob Casey, Jr. (D-PA) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Representatives Diane Black (R-TN) and Danny Davis (D-IL) will be honorary hosts of the briefing on April 18^th. Please ask your Members of Congress to send their tax, adoption and child welfare staff. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

Your phone calls and emails lead to more cosponsors of the ATC bill, which increases the likelihood that the bill will actually be considered by congressional leadership. Please continue to reach out to your Members of Congress to ask them to cosponsor. Don't know who your Members are? Find out here!

In other news, the IRS released a new Tip: Top Ten Facts about the Adoption Tax Credit, which addresses common questions about the current ATC and its limits. As an additional resource, read an article by Becky Wilmoth about the ATC and the need to advocate for refundability: Foster Care & The Adoption Tax Credit.

Please use this tax season to spread the word about the ATC on behalf of children and families!

Warm Regards, 

The ATC Working Group Executive Committee

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Adopt America Network
Christian Alliance for Orphans
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat)
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Donaldson Adoption Institute
National Council for Adoption
North American Council on Adoptable Children
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
ShowHope
Voice for Adoption 

#TaxDay2016

ADOPTION TAX CREDIT WEBINAR *** Cancelled Due to Illness

Unfortunately our speaker, Becky Wilmoth notified us this morning that she has come down with the flu and will NOT be able to do the Adoption Tax Credit webinar tonight at 7:00 p.m CST

We apologize for this inconvenience and we hope Becky feels better soon! In the meantime, mark your calendars for next week -- same time -- we'll do the webinar! Please mark your calendars for the new date:

THURSDAY, MARCH 11 7:00 PM CST

We will send an update and reminder next week. All families registered for this webinar have been notified.

Should they miss the notice or contact you please let them know that we have had to reschedule.

Thanks so much and have a great day! 

Kelly Ellison Your Adoption Finance Coach
CEO/Adoptive Parent
www.youradoptionfinancecoach.com
(816) 682 5500

Listen to our Radio Show! 

Helping adoptive families reach their financial goals and bring their forever family together.

NCFA & 2016 Policy Priorities and Adoption-Related Legislation

By Megan Lestino and Erin Bayles

Since our inception in 1980, National Council For Adoption (NCFA) has served as a strong and principled advocate for children outside of family care, adopted individuals, adoptive families, birth parents, and the public at-large. Motivated by the belief that every child deserves to thrive in a loving, safe, and permanent home, NCFA continues to support laws, policies, and practices to help promote permanency for the many children worldwide living without permanent families.

Our January Adoption Advocate is always dedicated to presenting NCFA’s policy priorities for the coming year and related legislation. NCFA rarely endorses specific legislation, but instead prioritizes educating key legislators and policymakers on the policies and practices that will provide essential services and the best possible support for children outside permanent family care, adopted individuals, birth parents, and adoptive families. At present, we are beginning the 2nd year of the 114th United States Congress, which began January 3, 2015 and continues until January 3, 2017. As we outline our priorities generally in this article, we will also take the opportunity to mention current pending legislation that is related to NCFA’s legislative priorities.

 Continue Reading.

All About Your Adoption Tax Credit - Join Us For A Live Seminar!

Join us for this live webinar with tax specialist, Becky Wilmoth from Bill's Tax Service.  We'll review all of the guidelines you need to know to take full advantage of the adoption tax credit.  Whether your adoption is complete or you are just getting started you will find this webinar very informative!

Tuesday, October 27th, 7:00 pm CST
Space is limited, register today!

For more information on this free event please email us at coach@youradoptionfinancecoach.com

Best regards,
Hopscotch Adoptions

Update on the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act of 2015!

"Last Wednesday, the ATCWG Executive Committee co-hosted a congressional briefing with Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) and Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) on the Adoption Tax Credit. Senators Casey and Blunt announced the reintroduction of the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act of 2015 (S. 950). Please contact congressional offices with which you have relationships to share the exciting co-sponsorship opportunity! "

Here are the things you can do to support S.950:

• Reach out to any relationships you may have asking members to co-sponsor this important piece of legislation
• Share the Press Release on Facebook
• Retweet this

Federal Adoption Tax Credit Fact Sheet (PDF)

Adoption Tax Credit Grassroots Campaign: Thank You!

Grassroots Advocacy Campaign

THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING

Special Thanks to…

You! Recently, the final message was sent in the Adoption Tax Credit Grassroots Advocacy Campaign. We want to give a special thanks to each of you for your participation over the last several weeks.

We’re grateful for your diligent efforts to share stories, messages, and advocacy tools with your communities. Your efforts are making a great difference for children and families. During this campaign, another new Senator and many new Representatives joined S. 1056 and H.R. 2144, thanks to your efforts. There are now a total of 27 Members of Congress that have signed on in support! Further, many more Members and their staff have been educated by their constituents about the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act and how very important the credit is to them and to their loved ones!

What a great start – and it wouldn’t have happened without you. Your voice and the many voices in your community make a big difference! We’re grateful for every voice that spoke out for this important cause. Don’t stop now! We encourage you to keep up the good work and to keep an eye out for more opportunities to engage policymakers on this issue, and with the Adoption Tax Credit Working Group in the future.

Please feel free to reach out to us with questions or ideas anytime at info@adoptiontaxcredit.org.

Warmly,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee:

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption.

AUGUST ACTION ALERT: Let Congress Hear Your Voice!

Dear Friends of Adoption:

As you may know, Congress is on August recess, but this is a perfect time to connect with your Members of Congress.  Here are several simple ways you can reach out and make sure they know how important the Adoption Tax Credit is to you (their constituents). We want to build Senate and Representative support for the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act (S.1056/H.R.2144).
Here is what you can do in August:

• Send a letter to Congress. Use the template letter linked here but personalize it.   Even if you have already adopted, tell your legislators how important your family is to you. If you have not yet benefited from the Adoption Tax Credit, explain how you hope it is available for all future families.
  
• Call your Members of Congress. Surveys show that only 20 calls from constituents are needed for a bill to the get the attention of our elected officials.   Even if you sent a letter, please call. If you only do one thing, please call.   We have created a script for you and made it very easy.
  
• Visit your Members of Congress. August is a great time to make an appointment to visit your Members of Congress while they are back in their district and state for the August recess.  Find their website and contact their in state office to make an appointment. Use the Adoption Tax Credit website content for your meeting “script” and print this PDF document to leave with the staffer/Member that you meet with.
  
• Connect with your Members of Congress online. Social media allows you to directly connect with your elected officials.   Most Senators and Representatives have Facebook pages and Twitter accounts.  Connect with them today.

Do not underestimate the power of your voice and your story.  Members of Congress support bills that matter to their constituents. Please send this email to your networks.
Thank you for your continued support,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group Executive Committee

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption

Email: info@adoptiontaxcredit.org

Visit us online: http://adoptiontaxcredit.org

Voice for Adoption
1220 L St NW
Washington, District of Columbia 20005
US

Contact Your Senators by July 19 To Ask that the Adoption Tax Credit be Included in Tax Reform

ACTION ALERT

CONTACT YOUR SENATORS TO ASK THAT THE ADOPTION TAX CREDIT BE INCLUDED IN TAX REFORM

Dear Friend & Adoption Supporter:

On June 27^th Senators Baucus and Hatch circulated a Dear Colleague letter to Members of the United States Senate asking them for their participation in tax reform.  Members were informed that it is the Committee’s preference that the process start with a “blank slate” - eliminate all tax expenditures, both corporate and individual provisions.  They were also told that to be re-included in the tax code a provision or proposal had to: (1) help grow the economy, (2) make the tax code fairer, or (3) effectively promote other important policy objectives.   

In response to this, Senators are now preparing letters which include their priorities for tax reform.  These letters are due to the Finance Committee by July 26^th. In order for your Senators to be able to incorporate your ask into their letters, we need you to reach out to them by July 19^th.  The Executive Committee has prepared and distributed the attached letter to Members of Congress and asked for them to include the adoption tax credit on their list of priority measures.  We need you to do the same.

Action:

We are calling on you today to ask you to:

1. Email or send your Senator the attached sample template, personalized by you, asking them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

2. Call your Senator and ask them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

· For talking points on why the adoption tax credit meets the established standard for tax reform see the letter sent to Members by the Executive Committee (attached) and http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/script-for-july-2013/

· If you need to find your Senators go to: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm.

· Or call the Capitol Operator at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to his or her office. Then ask to speak to the legislative assistant that handles adoption or tax issues.

3. Forward this email to your contacts and other supporters and ask them to weigh in with their Member of Congress on the importance of the Adoption Tax Credit.

4. Reply to this email to let us know which Senators you have contacted.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to contact your legislators on this important issue!

With warm regards,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee:

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption.

http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/

https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionTaxCredit

Contact Your Senators by July 19 To Ask that the Adoption Tax Credit be Included in Tax Reform

ACTION ALERT

CONTACT YOUR SENATORS TO ASK THAT THE ADOPTION TAX CREDIT BE INCLUDED IN TAX REFORM

Dear Friend & Adoption Supporter:

On June 27^th Senators Baucus and Hatch circulated a Dear Colleague letter to Members of the United States Senate asking them for their participation in tax reform.  Members were informed that it is the Committee’s preference that the process start with a “blank slate” - eliminate all tax expenditures, both corporate and individual provisions.  They were also told that to be re-included in the tax code a provision or proposal had to: (1) help grow the economy, (2) make the tax code fairer, or (3) effectively promote other important policy objectives.   

In response to this, Senators are now preparing letters which include their priorities for tax reform.  These letters are due to the Finance Committee by July 26^th. In order for your Senators to be able to incorporate your ask into their letters, we need you to reach out to them by July 19^th.  The Executive Committee has prepared and distributed the attached letter to Members of Congress and asked for them to include the adoption tax credit on their list of priority measures.  We need you to do the same.

Action:

We are calling on you today to ask you to:

1. Email or send your Senator the attached sample template, personalized by you, asking them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

2. Call your Senator and ask them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

· For talking points on why the adoption tax credit meets the established standard for tax reform see the letter sent to Members by the Executive Committee (attached) and http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/script-for-july-2013/

· If you need to find your Senators go to: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm.

· Or call the Capitol Operator at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to his or her office. Then ask to speak to the legislative assistant that handles adoption or tax issues.

3. Forward this email to your contacts and other supporters and ask them to weigh in with their Member of Congress on the importance of the Adoption Tax Credit.

4. Reply to this email to let us know which Senators you have contacted.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to contact your legislators on this important issue!

With warm regards,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee:

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption.

http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/

https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionTaxCredit

Contact Your Senators by July 19 To Ask that the Adoption Tax Credit be Included in Tax Reform

ACTION ALERT

CONTACT YOUR SENATORS TO ASK THAT THE ADOPTION TAX CREDIT BE INCLUDED IN TAX REFORM

Dear Friend & Adoption Supporter:

On June 27^th Senators Baucus and Hatch circulated a Dear Colleague letter to Members of the United States Senate asking them for their participation in tax reform.  Members were informed that it is the Committee’s preference that the process start with a “blank slate” - eliminate all tax expenditures, both corporate and individual provisions.  They were also told that to be re-included in the tax code a provision or proposal had to: (1) help grow the economy, (2) make the tax code fairer, or (3) effectively promote other important policy objectives.   

In response to this, Senators are now preparing letters which include their priorities for tax reform.  These letters are due to the Finance Committee by July 26^th. In order for your Senators to be able to incorporate your ask into their letters, we need you to reach out to them by July 19^th.  The Executive Committee has prepared and distributed the attached letter to Members of Congress and asked for them to include the adoption tax credit on their list of priority measures.  We need you to do the same.

Action:

We are calling on you today to ask you to:

1. Email or send your Senator the attached sample template, personalized by you, asking them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

2. Call your Senator and ask them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

· For talking points on why the adoption tax credit meets the established standard for tax reform see the letter sent to Members by the Executive Committee (attached) and http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/script-for-july-2013/

· If you need to find your Senators go to: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm.

· Or call the Capitol Operator at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to his or her office. Then ask to speak to the legislative assistant that handles adoption or tax issues.

3. Forward this email to your contacts and other supporters and ask them to weigh in with their Member of Congress on the importance of the Adoption Tax Credit.

4. Reply to this email to let us know which Senators you have contacted.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to contact your legislators on this important issue!

With warm regards,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee:

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption.

http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/

https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionTaxCredit

Contact Your Senators by July 19 To Ask that the Adoption Tax Credit be Included in Tax Reform

ACTION ALERT

CONTACT YOUR SENATORS TO ASK THAT THE ADOPTION TAX CREDIT BE INCLUDED IN TAX REFORM

  Dear Friend & Adoption Supporter:

On June 27^th Senators Baucus and Hatch circulated a Dear Colleague letter to Members of the United States Senate asking them for their participation in tax reform.  Members were informed that it is the Committee’s preference that the process start with a “blank slate” - eliminate all tax expenditures, both corporate and individual provisions.  They were also told that to be re-included in the tax code a provision or proposal had to: (1) help grow the economy, (2) make the tax code fairer, or (3) effectively promote other important policy objectives.   

In response to this, Senators are now preparing letters which include their priorities for tax reform.  These letters are due to the Finance Committee by July 26^th. In order for your Senators to be able to incorporate your ask into their letters, we need you to reach out to them by July 19^th.  The Executive Committee has prepared and distributed the attached letter to Members of Congress and asked for them to include the adoption tax credit on their list of priority measures.  We need you to do the same.

Action:

We are calling on you today to ask you to:

1. Email or send your Senator the attached sample template, personalized by you, asking them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

2. Call your Senator and ask them to demonstrate their support for the Adoption Tax Credit by including it in their list of priorities for tax reform and cosponsoring S. 1056.

· For talking points on why the adoption tax credit meets the established standard for tax reform see the letter sent to Members by the Executive Committee (attached) and http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/script-for-july-2013/

· If you need to find your Senators go to: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm.

· Or call the Capitol Operator at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to his or her office. Then ask to speak to the legislative assistant that handles adoption or tax issues.

3. Forward this email to your contacts and other supporters and ask them to weigh in with their Member of Congress on the importance of the Adoption Tax Credit.

4. Reply to this email to let us know which Senators you have contacted.

Thank you for taking a few minutes to contact your legislators on this important issue!

With warm regards,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee:

American Academy of Adoption Attorneys, Adopt America Network, Christian Alliance for Orphans,

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (Secretariat), Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption,

Donaldson Adoption Institute, Joint Council on International Children’s Services,

National Council For Adoption, North American Council on Adoptable Children,

RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, ShowHope, and Voice for Adoption.

http://adoptiontaxcredit.org/

https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionTaxCredit

Adoption Tax Credit Working Group Tax Day Campaign

Dear Adoption Tax Credit Working Group Members,

Tax Day 2013 is just around the corner and this is a perfect time of the year to communicate with Congress about the Adoption Tax Credit.  We are encouraging all ATC Working Group members to activate your members, clients, and families, please use the attached letter to urge them to contact their Senators and Representative between Monday, April 15^th and April 30. The goal is to convey two simple messages:

1. Thank you for making the Adoption Tax Credit permanent

2. Please re-instate the refundable provision of the Adoption Tax Credit so that it helps more children and adoptive families

We have made this process very simple for you.  Attached is a sample letter for you to post and send out for individuals to send to their Members of Congress (MOC).  They can find their MOC here: http://www.contactingthecongress.org/

The template letter will also be posted on www.adoptiontaxcredit.org and we will use the “Save the Adoption Tax Credit” Facebook page to promote the letter writing campaign as well.  

Thank you for taking action – let’s flood Congress with letters from the adoption community! 

With warm regards,

The Adoption Tax Credit Working Group’s Executive Committee

Children Are Waiting to be Adopted and Adoptive Families Thank You! (Word Doc)

Qualify and Claim the Adoption Tax Credit

Two documents from the US International Revenue Service (IRS) provide information to individuals on how to qualify for and claim the adoption tax credit for certain adoption expenses.

The first document, Adoption Benefits FAQs, explains the adoption credit for tax year 2011, including which expenses are qualified adoption expenses, who is an eligible child, when to claim the credit, which forms to complete, and what supporting documentation is required.  The information was last updated in August 2012, and is available here.

The second document, March 2012 Adoption Credit Phone Forum Questions and Answers, provides further details on when certain expenses are allowable for the adoption credit for tax years 2011, 2012, and 2013.  It also provides the maximum credit amounts and income limitations for those tax years, as well as specific requirements for domestic special needs adoptions and intercountry adoptions.  The information in this document was last updated in October 2012, and is available here.

Around the World in 60 Minutes

Join us for a new Webinar series TOMORROW!

Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/181798640

Want the latest on Russia, the Adoption Tax Credit, Universal Accreditation legislation, and the Action Plan on Children in Adversity? Grab your passport! Jet around the child welfare world and discover all the latest news, and our role as a community in impacting the lives of children and families around the world. Can this be done in 60 minutes? Tune in and find out.

Title: Around the World in 60 Minutes

Date: Thursday, January 24, 2013

Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CST

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