E.I.T.C
EDUCATIONAL IMPROVEMENT TAX CREDIT.
Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program allows donors to claim a 90% state income tax credit for contributions made to an approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO).
An EIO is a not-for-profit organization registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) that provides innovative educational programs and initiatives to improve K–12 student achievement.
Scouting America, Laurel Highlands Council is a registered and approved EIO.
It costs a dime to give a dollar to Laurel Highlands Council.
Benefits for Pennsylvania Businesses and Individuals
Participants who enroll through the EITC program can:
- Receive a state tax credit of up to 90% of their contribution.
- Potentially receive a federal charitable deduction for a portion of the contribution, depending on the donor’s individual tax circumstances.
- Directly support youth development through the Laurel Highlands Council EIO program.
- Encourage leadership, character, and educational opportunities for nearly 10,000 youth in Western Pennsylvania.
Eligibility Requirements
- Donors must have Pennsylvania-source income.
- Donors must be employed by, or be a shareholder, partner, or member of, a business that pays taxes in Pennsylvania.
- Donors must be current on all state and federal tax obligations.
How it Works
Laurel Highlands Council has partnered with Friends of Education to make EITC giving easy. Friends of Education manages Special Purpose Entities (SPEs) — limited liability companies that are awarded tax credits by the state.
By joining an SPE, donors can redirect a portion of their Pennsylvania tax dollars from Harrisburg directly to the Laurel Highlands Council EIO program. These dollars support Scouting programs that build character, leadership, and life skills for young people throughout Western Pennsylvania.
Ready to give? Here are the next steps:
- Speak with your tax advisor to confirm eligibility.
- Notify Nathan Catanese at Laurel Highlands Council (412-471-2927) of your intent to make an EITC gift.
- Request a joinder agreement from Friends of Education (info@pataxcredits.org).
- Designate Laurel Highlands Council in the joinder and remit your contribution.
In February 2027, Friends of Education will issue Form K-1, enabling you to report the tax credit on your 2026 Pennsylvania state tax return.
Make an Impact
Together, we can prepare the next generation of leaders. Through Friends of Education’s EITC program, you can redirect your tax dollars to support the Laurel Highlands Council mission, building character, developing leadership, and instilling lifelong values in young people across Western Pennsylvania.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
How does redirecting my taxes benefit children in Pennsylvania?
By redirecting your tax dollars to the Laurel Highlands Council EIO, you directly support Scouting programs that develop leadership, character, and citizenship in nearly 10,000 youth across Western Pennsylvania — strengthening communities for generations to come.
What are the tax benefits of making an EITC-qualified gift?
Eligible donors may receive a Pennsylvania state tax credit of up to 90%, effectively allowing them to redirect that portion of their state tax liability to Laurel Highlands. In addition, depending on individual circumstances, a federal charitable deduction may be available for a portion of the contribution. Donors are encouraged to consult with their tax advisor prior to making a gift. The chart below illustrates the impact of an EITC-qualified gift, assuming a $10,000 contribution:
|
Contribution to Laurel Highlands Council |
($10,000) |
|
PA State Tax Credit (90%) |
$9,000 |
|
Estimated Out of Pocket |
($1,000) |
In certain circumstances, you may also be able to obtain a federal charitable deduction for a portion of your contribution, which would further reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Consult your tax advisor to determine eligibility.
How do I enroll?
- Request a joinder agreement from Friends of Education (info@pataxcredits.org).
- Designate Scouting America, Laurel Highlands Council as your beneficiary.
- Friends of Education will remit 100% of your donation to Laurel Highlands Council.
Does Friends of Education have a minimum contribution?
Yes. Friends of Education requires a minimum gift of $5,000.
Can my business enroll?
Yes. In certain cases, your business may be able to claim a federal tax deduction for the full amount of its donation while also receiving a 90% state tax credit. We recommend that all donors consult with their tax advisors to confirm their eligibility.
What if I am married?
Only one spouse should enroll. The enrolling spouse must meet the eligibility requirements. The tax credit may be applied against the couple’s joint Pennsylvania tax liability.
What is the deadline to participate?
Credits must be used by December 31, 2026, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
