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tax benefits

Tax Benefits

Bulletproof curtains may qualify as depreciable security equipment under IRS rules, but they may not be immediately tax-deductible.


If permanently installed, they may be classified as §1250 property and depreciated over 39 years.


If removable and primarily used for security, they may be treated as §1245 personal property with a shorter 5-year depreciation period.


Eligibility for Section 179 expensing depends on specific use and installation.

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Grant Eligibility Analyzer
NIJ Ballistic Protection Calculator
Question 1 of 6

NIJ Ballistic Protection Level Calculator

Determine the appropriate armor level based on your threat assessment

This calculator provides general recommendations based on common scenarios. Always consult with security professionals and consider multiple factors including local laws, specific threats, and operational requirements.

Note: NIJ standards do not officially test for shotgun rounds. Shotgun protection information is based on real-world testing and manufacturer data, not NIJ certification.

Grant Application Roadmap

Secure Funding for Bulletproof Protection Equipment

1 Assessment & Eligibility (Weeks 1-2)

⏰ Immediate Action Required
NSGP-NSS deadline: January 24, 2025. Start SAM.gov registration NOW (takes 4+ weeks)!

Organization Type Selector

Pre-Application Checklist

  • Verify 501(c)(3) status (if applicable)
  • Start SAM.gov registration immediately
  • Identify your State Administrative Agency (SAA)
  • Conduct initial vulnerability assessment
  • Document current security measures
  • Establish budget range for project
  • Research local and state grant opportunities

2 Documentation & Planning (Weeks 3-4)

Required Documentation

  • Complete professional vulnerability assessment
  • Obtain vendor quotes for equipment
  • Prepare Investment Justification narrative
  • Create facility floor plans/diagrams
  • Document threat history and incidents
  • Compile insurance documentation
  • Prepare sustainability plan

Budget Calculator

Enter values above to calculate estimated budget

Common Documentation Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic risk assessments without specific threats
  • Missing vendor quotes or outdated pricing
  • Inadequate justification linking threats to equipment
  • Unrealistic implementation timelines
  • Lack of law enforcement coordination letters

3 Application Submission (Weeks 5-6)

Key Application Deadlines

Jan 24, 2025 NSGP-NSS State Applications Due
Spring 2025 COPS SVPP Applications (Expected)
Spring 2025 Regular NSGP Cycle Opens

Application Components

  • Complete all required forms
  • Write compelling Investment Justification
  • Include detailed budget narrative
  • Attach vulnerability assessment
  • Include vendor quotes and specifications
  • Add letters of support
  • Review for completeness
  • Submit before deadline

Priority Scoring Advantages

First-Time Applicants

Receive priority consideration in NSGP scoring

Underserved Communities

Organizations serving disadvantaged populations score higher

Documented Threats

Recent incidents or credible threats increase competitiveness

4 Post-Submission & Award Management (Ongoing)

While Waiting for Decision

  • Maintain contact with grant administrator
  • Prepare for potential information requests
  • Continue documenting security needs
  • Research alternative funding sources
  • Plan implementation timeline

If Awarded

  • Review award terms and conditions
  • Complete required training
  • Establish procurement procedures
  • Coordinate with approved vendors
  • Maintain compliance documentation
  • Submit required reports

If Not Awarded

  • Request feedback from grant administrator
  • Consider reapplying in next cycle
  • Explore state and local alternatives
  • Investigate financing options
  • Look into consortium applications

📚 Resources & Support

Key Resources

SAM.gov Registration

Required for all federal grants

Start Registration →

Find Your SAA

State Administrative Agency contacts

Find SAA →

DHS Equipment List

Authorized equipment for NSGP

View List →

Grant Writing Tips

Best practices for applications

Learn More →

Need Professional Grant Assistance?

Our specialists have a 73% success rate in securing grants

Information

Facility Protection Standards Assessment Tool

Comprehensive ballistic protection assessment for institutional security planning

Select Your Facility Type

Impact data from government agencies and industry reports (2023-2025)

Security Assessment for

Rate each area from 1-5 (1 = Critical Gap, 5 = Fully Compliant)

Assessment Results

0%
Low Risk

Key Recommendations

Budget Planning Calculator

Estimated Total Investment: $0

• Federal grants available up to $600,000 for qualifying facilities

• 0% APR financing options available

• Average ROI: 340% over 5 years

Implementation Roadmap

Phase 1: Assessment & Planning (Month 1)

  • ✓ Complete institutional security audit
  • ✓ Develop comprehensive protection plan
  • ✓ Secure stakeholder approval and budget
  • ✓ Begin vendor selection process

Phase 2: Procurement & Installation (Months 2-4)

  • • Complete vendor selection and contracting
  • • Coordinate professional installation
  • • Conduct system testing and verification
  • • Begin staff training programs

Phase 3: Operation & Optimization (Months 5-12)

  • • Monitor system performance
  • • Refine operational procedures
  • • Evaluate cost savings and benefits
  • • Plan for future enhancements

Ready to take the next step?

Export your assessment and contact our specialists for a detailed consultation

Grant Alert: FEMA NSGP applications open through January 24, 2025. Up to $600,000 available for qualifying nonprofits with no match required.

Home Security Assessment Checklist

Evaluate your home's security with this comprehensive checklist

Did you know? Many security upgrades, including bulletproof protection, may qualify for grants up to $150,000 through FEMA NSGP and other programs. Items marked with a shield (🛡️) represent advanced protection options.