LT. GOV. QUINN URGES TAXPAYERS TO MAKE A CHECK OFF CONTRIBUTION TO 12 GREAT CAUSES Taxpayers asked to be generous to check off causes as April 15 tax return deadline approaches

CHICAGO - Surrounded by a sea of banners, Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn joined with contributors and recipients from each of 12 Great Causes to urge citizens to make a check off donation to the voluntary contribution funds included on this year's Illinois income tax form.  Illinois taxpayers have the opportunity to contribute to a dozen charitable causes this year, the highest number of check off options in the state's history.

 

"During the next 10 days, millions of taxpayers will prepare their income taxes," said Quinn.  "The voluntary check off is a good way for taxpayers to decide how their money is spent and at the same time lend a hand."

 

On the tax returns due April 15, asthma and lung research, leukemia treatment and education, Lou Gehrig's disease research, military family relief, and World War II veterans' memorial funds are new options.

 

They join last year's list of check off opportunities: wildlife conservation, Alzheimer's disease research, child abuse prevention, assistance to the homeless, breast and cervical cancer research, prostate cancer research and multiple sclerosis assistance.

 

"If everyone gives just a dollar to each one of these great causes, we'll be making a meaningful difference in the lives of Illinois veterans, children, military families, wildlife and people who need decent healthcare," said Quinn.

 

Any amount of $1 or more can be donated through tax check offs.  The amount is either deducted from the taxpayer's refund or added to the amount due. For a check off program to remain on the tax return for next year, Illinois requires the cause generate a minimum amount of $100,000 from taxpayers.

 

"This year Illinoisans have twelve great causes to support," said Quinn. "I plan to donate to all twelve and encourage every taxpayer to do the same."

 

For more information on each of the 12 Great Causes visit at http://www.12GreatCauses.IL.Gov