Illinois Taxpayers Can Donate to Disease Research Funds
Illinois taxpayers can contribute $1 or more to special research funds to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases when filing their 2004 state income tax returns.  

To donate to the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Fund, mark line 28c on the 2004 IL-1040 state income tax return.  The amount contributed will either be deducted from any refund or added to the amount due. All donations are tax deductible. Donations may be made to more than one fund.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), monies contributed to the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Fund are used to “find a cause, cure and more effective ways to diagnose and treat this debilitating disease, which afflicts about 222,300 people in Illinois. Victims of this age-related form of dementia suffer a progressive loss of memory, attention span and the ability to learn.” 

Since the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Fund first appeared on the 1985 state tax form, taxpayers have contributed nearly $2.9 million to support 124 research projects.”

“By contributing to these funds, Illinoisans can help support critical research,” said Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, state public health director. “Illinois taxpayers have shown their commitment to help fight these diseases over the years and I would urge them to continue their support.”

According to IDPH, a fund must generate a minimum of $100,000 each year in order to appear on the next year’s tax form. Direct contributions also may be made to the Department’s funds by sending a check, payable to the Illinois Department of Public Health, P.O. Box 4263, Springfield, IL 62708. The designated fund should be clearly noted on the check.