US approves 6,576 Opportunity Zones for a new ten-year term
The US Treasury and Internal Revenue Service approved all 6,576 eligible census tracts nominated for new Opportunity Zone designations. The list includes 2,594 rural tracts, with status beginning in January 2027 for ten years. The decision sets the programme’s next geographical boundaries under legislation that permanently renewed the tax incentive.
Economics & Markets··Midday
New designations begin in January 2027
The US Treasury has approved 6,576 census tracts for new Opportunity Zone status, covering nominations across the US and its territories. The designations take effect on January 1, 2027. They establish the areas eligible for the programme’s new designation period.[1], [2]
The Treasury and Internal Revenue Service said all eligible tracts nominated within the statutory window were approved. Of the total, 2,594 are rural. The new status lasts ten years, covering all 50 states, the territories and the District of Columbia.[1]
Rural communities receive enhanced incentives
The Working Families Tax Cuts legislation permanently renewed the tax incentive and added enhanced benefits for eligible rural communities. It also created a process for redesignating zones every ten years. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and IRS chief executive Frank J. Bisignano said the programme aims to support long-term private investment, jobs and economic opportunity.[1]
Governors submitted the nominated areas
Governors and the mayor of the District of Columbia submitted nominations. The agencies published an initial list of 25,332 eligible census tracts on April 6, including 8,334 rural tracts, and began accepting nominations on July 1. Another 130 eligible tracts, including 28 rural ones, were nominated during the statutory window. The agencies have now published the approved list and map.[1]
