FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about the credit, giving to an SGO and applying for a scholarship.
You give now and claim the credit on your 2027 return, so it comes back as a lower tax bill or a larger refund. The credit can only offset federal tax you owe; any unused amount carries forward for up to 5 years.
Yes. Each U.S. individual taxpayer can claim up to $1,700 a year, from any state. A married couple filing jointly can claim up to $3,400 if each spouse gives.
Your SGO sends an acknowledgement with your unique donor number by January 31 of the following year. You enter that number when you claim the credit on your federal return.
Only $1,700 per person counts toward the credit. The rest may be deductible as a regular charitable gift if you itemize.
No. Federal law bans earmarking gifts for a particular student, and a school preference is only a recommendation. The SGO awards scholarships to eligible students using published criteria: at least 10 students across at least 2 schools, with last year's recipients and their siblings considered first.
Not entirely. The IRS rules issued in October 2026 are partly proposed and may change before the first credits are claimed. Check with your tax professional before you give.
Still have a question?
Talk with our team about the credit, your SGO or an application.