The IRS announced this week that Empowerment Zone designations would be extended through the end of 2016. Empowerment Zones are economically distressed urban and rural areas. Employers may receive a credit that is 20% of the qualified employee’s wages (up to $15,000). The credit is claimed on Form 8844. Empowerment Zones in California include Fresno, Los Angeles (both the city and county), and Santa Ana.