New Mexico offers a refundable film credit with a 25% base rate. Under the current program guidelines, uplifts can raise the total to a maximum of 40%: 5% for a qualifying television series (six or more episodes at $50,000+ each), 10% for rural work (60+ miles from Albuquerque or Santa Fe), and 5% for using a qualified soundstage facility. The television-series and facility uplifts do not stack.
Annual funding is tiered by fiscal year, from $130 million in FY2025 rising to $160 million by FY2029. Non-resident performers are subject to a $5 million aggregate cap, and non-resident below-the-line wages are limited to 15% of New Mexico below-the-line wages, with headcount limits scaling by budget (from 2 to 12). Lodging is capped at $300 per person per day and vehicles at $150 per day.
One planning note: non-resident behind-camera above-the-line roles — producers, directors, and writers — are non-qualifying. Upload your budget above to see your estimated New Mexico credit line by line.
What is the New Mexico film tax credit rate?
The base rate is 25%, with uplifts for a qualifying TV series, rural work, and soundstage use raising it to a maximum of 40% under the current program guidelines.
Is the New Mexico credit refundable?
Yes, it is a refundable tax credit.
How much non-resident labor qualifies in New Mexico?
Non-resident performers share a $5 million aggregate cap, and non-resident below-the-line wages are limited to 15% of New Mexico below-the-line wages, with headcount limits by budget.
Do New Mexico uplifts stack?
The television-series and qualified-facility uplifts do not stack with each other.
Figures reflect the program guidelines currently modeled by this calculator and are estimates only — not tax or legal advice. Confirm current rules with the relevant film office before making production decisions.