Here's how film tax incentives work:

Eligibility
To qualify for film tax incentives, productions must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as filming a minimum number of days in the state or meeting a certain spending threshold on local goods and services. These requirements vary depending on the location and the specific incentive program.

Application
Once a production meets the eligibility requirements, it can apply for the tax incentives by submitting an application to the state or local film commission. The application typically includes information about the production, such as the shooting schedule, budget, and expected economic impact on the local community.

Approval
After reviewing the application, the state or local film commission will determine whether the production qualifies for the tax incentives. If approved, the commission will issue a certificate or voucher that the production can use to claim the tax credits or rebates.

Claiming the Incentives
Once filming is complete, the production can claim the tax credits or rebates by filing a tax return with the state or local tax authority. The amount of the incentives will be based on the production's eligible expenses, which may include things like wages, equipment rental, and local purchases.

Overall, film tax incentives are designed to encourage filmmakers to choose a particular location for their production by offering financial benefits. By offsetting a portion of the costs associated with filming, these incentives can help to make a production more financially viable and attractive to investors. At the same time, they can also generate significant economic benefits for the local community, including job creation, increased tourism, and the development of local film industry infrastructure.