Alaska has one of the most generous incentive programs in the United States. Our base rate is 30% on above and below the line spending in Alaska. An additional 10% is available for local hire, 2% for off-season shoots (defined as October to March) and 2% for shooting in rural areas. That adds up to an enticing 44% in a transferable tax credit for filmmakers.
With up to $100 million available and a minimum spend of only $100,000, most projects can qualify. Alaska also has no personal income tax and no statewide sales tax.
The Alaska Film Production Incentive Program does not have film or salary caps. Companies are not required to be domiciled in Alaska and there are no minimum requirements for principle photography days or Alaska hire.
Obtaining the tax credits can be broken down into a two-part process. In part one you will fill out and submit a pre-qualification form to the Alaska Film Office. If you meet the requirements you will be issued a pre-qualification letter. You will then need to obtain an Alaska Business License.
After you are finished shooting the second part of the process begins. The production will need to have their expenditures audited by a CPA licensed by the State of Alaska. A final application packet is then submitted to the Alaska Film Office. Once approved by the Department of Revenue a tax credit will be issued and productions are free to sell it to any company that has tax liability to the State of Alaska.
For forms and questions contact the Alaska Film Office at 907-269-8190 or AlaskaFilm@alaska.gov
