Opportunity Zones incentivize investment in distressed areas through a deferral of capital gains tax owed, a step up in basis, and a permanent exclusion of future capital gains invested in qualified zones.

There are approximately $6 trillion of unrealized capital gains held by U.S. investors; Opportunity Zones presents a tax-preferred method to reinvest those gains.

The goal is to spur long-term investment in low-income urban and rural communities; to create economic and community development; and to create more opportunities for startups and new businesses.

Mechanism to incentivize investment in underserved communities across the nation.

Opportunity Zones are part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.