FISCAL FRAMEWORK
TAX INCENTIVES
The City of Crisfield leverages a strategic portfolio of tax incentives designed to lower the barrier for local investment and accelerate job creation. From comprehensive Enterprise Zone credits to the specialized benefits of our Arts and Entertainment District, our municipal government provides the fiscal scaffolding necessary for sustainable business success.
We offer specialized pathways for development, including Opportunity Zone capital gains deferral, the Job Creation Tax Credit for workforce expansion, and the 'More Jobs for Marylanders' program for high-growth manufacturers. Each initiative is a testament to our commitment to a robust, diverse economic future for all who choose to invest in Crisfield.
INQUIRIES & SUPPORT
For detailed program descriptions, eligibility assessments, or application assistance, please contact City Hall.
staff@crisfieldcityhall.com
Crisfield Tax Incentives
Strategic property and employment tax credits designed to foster growth in the City of Crisfield. Contact staff@crisfieldcityhall.com for more information.
Enterprise Zone
Real Property Tax Credit
A ten-year credit against local real property taxes on capital improvements. Includes an 80% credit on eligible assessment for the first 5 years, decreasing by 10% annually for the subsequent 5 years.
Enterprise Zone
Employment Tax Credits
- General Income Tax Credit: $1,000 per qualified new employee, or $1,500 in zone focus areas.
Economically Disadvantaged Employees (3-Year Credit Range):
- First Year: $3,000 (Focus Area: $4,500)
- Second Year: $2,000 (Focus Area: $3,000)
- Third Year: $1,000 (Focus Area: $1,500)
Arts & Entertainment District
A&E Property Tax Incentives
Available for manufacturing, commercial, or industrial properties renovated for use by qualified artists or A&E enterprises. Crisfield offers a 100% tax credit on the increased assessment value for 10 years.
Arts & Entertainment District
Artist Income Tax Subtraction
Qualified residing artists in Crisfield are eligible for income tax subtraction on earnings derived from artistic work sold within the district. This includes performance income and internet sales originating within the A&E area.
Arts & Entertainment District
Admissions & Amusement Exemption
Local governments provide exemptions from Admissions & Amusement tax charges imposed by A&E enterprises or qualifying artists. Visit the State Comptroller's Office or CrisfieldArts.org for detailed filing information.
State & Federal Business Incentives
Opportunity Zone
Establish your investment in Crisfield's federally designated Opportunity Zone to leverage significant capital gains tax benefits. Program incentives include a Temporary Deferral of taxable income, a Step-Up in Basis for investments held over 5-7 years, and a Permanent Exclusion of gains for investments maintained for at least 10 years.
One Maryland Tax Credit
Dedicated to businesses that invest in economic development projects, the One Maryland Tax Credit provides up to $1 million in State income tax credits. Qualification requires the creation of 10 to 24 new full-time positions alongside eligible capital costs.
Note: One Maryland and Job Creation Tax Credits cannot be combined. One Maryland is optimized for companies with over $500,000 in capital expenditures.
CITY OF CRISFIELD • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • TAX INCENTIVES • ENTERPRISE ZONE • OPPORTUNITY ZONE • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT • JOB CREATION • ONE MARYLAND •
Contact the Crisfield Economic Development team for more information or to begin your application process.
Reach out directly: arts@crisfieldcityhall.com
For detailed information on any of the programs listed, please visit the Maryland Department of Commerce website or visit CrisfieldArts.org.