PENNSYLVANIA FILM TAX CREDIT

On July 11, 2022, Pennsylvania’s General Assembly voted to pass a $30 million increase to the state's film tax credit program. This action will raise the cap on the program to $100 million; of which, $5 million is set aside for Pennsylvania-based filmmakers.

WHAT IS THE TAX CREDIT?

Pennsylvania offers a 25% tax credit to qualified productions that spend at least 60% of their total budget in state. Qualified productions are eligible for a tax credit equal to 25% of the production’s total Qualified Pennsylvania Production Expenses. In addition, if they utilize what the state classifies as a “Qualified Production Facility,” productions can benefit from an additional 5% tax credit, for a total credit of 30%.

AURORA FILMS IS A QUALIFIED FACILITY

By utilizing a state qualified facility such as Aurora Films, productions can receive an additional 5% tax credit. The credit also includes studio and soundstage rentals, as well as utilizing post production suites.

ELIGIBLE PRODUCTIONS

Eligibility is restricted to the following types of projects: a feature film, television film, television talk or game show series, television commercial, television pilot, or each episode of a television series intended as programming for a national audience. Check the guidelines from the PA Film Office.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Ensure your Pennsylvania production expenses comprise at least 60% of the project’s total production expenses.

2. Create a new keystone login account.

3. Check the guidelines and eligibility forms to ensure your production qualifies

4. Have verifiable documentation that 70% of the production’s financing has been secured and that the remaining 30% will be secured prior to the start date of principal photography.

5. Once registered select The DCED Film Tax Credit Program Application.

6. Complete the Single Application for Assistance online form.

7. Download and complete the Appendix D and Appendix E Forms.

8. Submit the Single Application for Assistance form and Appendix documents online for review.

9. Contact Aurora Films and get your production started!