Giving to Hilltop
Make Your Gift Go Further.
The Colorado Homeless Contribution Tax Credit can help eligible donors support Hilltop's approved homelessness-related projects while receiving a Colorado income tax credit.
Getting Started
Support safety, housing, and stability.
The Colorado Homeless Contribution Tax Credit, or HCTC, supports qualifying contributions to approved projects that address homelessness.
Hilltop's approved projects include shelter and services for survivors of domestic violence, homelessness prevention, supportive housing, and related support. Contact our Development Team before giving to confirm the project, credit rate, minimum gift, and donation instructions.
HCTC at a glance
- For eligible Colorado taxpayers and qualifying gifts
- 25% credit for approved non-rural projects
- 30% credit for approved rural projects, including Hilltop's Montrose, Delta, and Ouray project
- Minimum cash gift varies by project
- A tax credit certificate is required to claim the credit
Compare the Credit
See what a qualifying gift could mean.
The credit rate follows the approved project receiving your contribution. Hilltop can help you designate your gift.
Mesa County: 25% credit
Qualifying gifts to Hilltop's approved Mesa County projects receive the non-rural rate.
Montrose & Delta: 30% credit
Qualifying gifts to Hilltop's approved rural project serving Montrose, Delta, and Ouray counties receive the rural rate.
| Eligible gift | 25% credit | 30% credit |
|---|---|---|
| $100 | $25 | $30 |
| $250 | $62.50 | $75 |
| $500 | $125 | $150 |
| $1,000 | $250 | $300 |
| $5,000 | $1,250 | $1,500 |
Examples show the Colorado HCTC amount only and assume an eligible gift to an approved project. They do not include other tax effects. Your ability to use the credit depends on your tax circumstances.
Minimum gifts: Hilltop's approved operational projects list a $100 minimum cash gift; its Mesa County capital campaign lists a $250 minimum. The $100 example applies to eligible operational-project gifts.
How It Works
From your gift to your tax return.
Start with a conversation so your gift supports the intended project and meets its requirements.
1. Confirm and give.
Contact Hilltop to confirm eligibility, the minimum contribution, and how to designate your gift. Then make your qualifying contribution.
2. Provide your information.
Follow Hilltop's instructions for providing the taxpayer information needed to prepare your HCTC certificate.
3. Receive your certificate.
Hilltop processes the eligible contribution and provides the tax credit certificate you will need for your records and tax filing.
4. Claim the credit.
Use your certificate when filing your Colorado income tax return. Follow current state filing instructions and consult your tax advisor.
Questions about the tax credit
What to know before you give and when you prepare your return.
Do all donations to Hilltop qualify?
No. A gift must support an approved HCTC project and meet the program's requirements. Contact Hilltop before giving to confirm eligibility and how to designate your contribution.
What is the minimum contribution?
The state minimum for a qualifying cash gift is $100, but individual projects can set higher minimums. See the project minimums below the comparison table, or contact Hilltop to confirm before giving.
Does my home address determine the 25% or 30% rate?
The rate depends on the approved project receiving your gift. Use the comparison above for Hilltop's project rates. Eligible Colorado taxpayers can support a qualifying project elsewhere in the state.
What taxpayer information is required?
The certificate must identify the taxpayer making the qualifying contribution. Hilltop will need your name as it appears on your tax return, address, and applicable taxpayer identification information:
- Individuals: the last four digits of your Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Businesses: the full nine-digit Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), when applicable.
Contact Hilltop for instructions on providing this information. Keep taxpayer identification numbers out of the general giving inquiry form.
How do I claim the credit?
Obtain your HCTC certificate from Hilltop and submit it as required with your Colorado income tax filing. The Colorado Department of Revenue provides an online E-Filer Attachment option. Your tax advisor can help you follow the requirements for your return.
Is a tax credit the same as a charitable deduction?
No. A credit reduces tax owed; a deduction reduces taxable income. The table above shows only the potential Colorado HCTC amount. Ask your tax advisor how the credit and any charitable deduction apply to your gift.
Can businesses qualify?
Eligible corporations, partnerships, S corporations, and certain other pass-through entities can participate, subject to program requirements. Contact Hilltop about the gift and consult your tax advisor about claiming the credit.
Questions About Your Gift?
Let's confirm the details together.
Our Development Team can help you choose an approved project, confirm the applicable credit and minimum gift, and get the information you need to begin.
Hilltop HCTC contact
Email
Phone
More than a tax credit.
Your gift helps Hilltop provide safety, stability, and support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Connect with us to explore a qualifying contribution.
Tax information and resources
This page provides general information, not individual tax, legal, or financial advice. Eligibility and the credit you can use depend on program requirements, project approval, and your circumstances. Consult your tax advisor before relying on a tax benefit.