The City of Portland Revenue Bureau is now accepting payments for the Arts Education and Access Income Tax (“Arts Tax”) passed by Portland voters on November 6, 2012. The tax is due April 15, 2013 and is $35 for most Portland residents.
The Revenue Bureau launched a website at www.artstax.net to provide a simple, online option for filing and paying the tax. The Bureau is accepting credit cards and electronic fund transfers through the website.
Taxpayers who file online will receive an emailed receipt. Taxpayers who itemize deductions on their federal income tax return may be able to deduct the Arts Tax payment on their 2013 federal tax return.
If taxpayers prefer to pay by check or money order, they can file online, then print and attach the confirmation to their payment before mailing it in.
Starting April 1, 2013, households who have not yet paid using the website will receive a tax form in the mail.
All income earning adults in the City of Portland are required to file an Arts Tax form. People and families who earn less than the 2012 federal poverty guidelines must file an exemption form, but are not required to pay any tax. For a family of four, the guideline is $23,050. Exemption details are outlined on the website at www.artstax.net.
The Arts Tax will fund school teachers and non-profit organizations in Portland. Portland residents can call 503-865-4ART (4278) for more information.