The Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program allows businesses and all of us who are eligible to turn tax dollars into tuition assistance for Catholic school students—at little to no cost. You can redirect your taxes to provide life-changing scholarships for families who want a faith-based education but need some financial help.
You pay PA state taxes.
Instead of sending them to the state, you redirect them to Catholic school scholarships.
You receive a 90% tax credit, reducing your PA tax liability.
Students receive the gift of a Catholic education!
Example: A $10,000 contribution = $9,000 in tax credits + potential federal charitable deduction
Any PA business that pays state taxes (C-Corps, S-Corps, LLCs, Partnerships)
If you have $6,500+ in PA tax liability, you can participate through a Special Purpose Entity (SPE).
Not sure if you qualify? Contact us [link] for guidance.
New Applicants: Apply starting July 1
Returning Participants: Renew by May 15
Step 1: Apply Online – Submit your application through the PA DCED Website
Step 2: Make Your Contribution – Send funds to an approved Scholarship Organization
Step 3: Claim Your Tax Credit – Receive up to 90% credit on your PA state taxes
Need help? We guide you every step of the way! [Contact Us]
Already participating? Please share this opportunity with other business owners and individuals who may be eligible.
Thank you for supporting Catholic education through EITC.
Scholastic Opportunity Scholarships are funded from donations from businesses participating in the PA tax credit program and open to any student, Catholic or non-Catholic, in grades Pre-K through 12. There are specific income guidelines. Families applying for this aid must also use the FACTS Management form.
This program, established by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with funds first disbursed in the 2002-03 school year, is open to any student, Catholic or non-Catholic, in grades Pre-K through 12 residing in Pennsylvania and attending any eligible Catholic school in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Michael Freker, diocesan director of Planned Giving, gives EITC Program details.
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs provide tax credits to eligible individuals contributing to the Scholastic Opportunity Scholarship Fund via one of the Special Purpose Entities formed for the benefit of the Scholarship Organization at the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Donations received by Scholastic Opportunity Scholarship Fund are awarded to students attending Catholic elementary and secondary schools and pre-school programs in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Tax credits may be applied against the state tax liability of an individual for the tax year in which the contribution was made. For a two-year commitment, a Qualified Individual can receive a 90% tax credit.
Participants can send their contribution to the Special Purpose Entity designating the school they want to support. The Special Purpose Entity will send participants a K-1 to receive a tax refund.
Participants must:
Complete the below form, and Michael Freker, diocesan director of Planned Giving, will be in touch with you. Feel free to contact Michael with any questions about the program at: [email protected] or 412-456-3055.