EITC
Turn Your PA Taxes into RTCS Scholarships
For families who want a Christ-centered RTCS education and need help with tuition, a scholarship can make the difference. Pennsylvania's Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) lets eligible taxpayers send part of their state tax to scholarships instead of to Harrisburg. School families, partner churches, and friends of RTCS give through the ACSI Children's Tuition Fund of Pennsylvania (CTF), our scholarship organization since 2001. Scholarships are awarded to RTCS students based on financial need, and as more donors take part, RTCS can extend additional help.
$96,000
pledged for 2026–27 to help about 43 RTCS students
2.5×
growth in EITC support since 2022–23 ($39,000)
33%
our goal: tuition covered through scholarships, including EITC
How to give through CTF
Help put Christian education within reach for another family. Start by talking with Karl Leslie, the RTCS Treasurer, who can answer questions and help you get started with CTF. Then follow CTF's five steps:
1
Join the SPE
Complete CTF's joinder agreement to reserve your tax credit, and tell CTF you want to support RTCS.
2
Make your contribution
Give the approved amount through CTF's secure payment portal, designated to RTCS.
3
Receive your K-1
The SPE emails you a K-1 tax form before March 15.
4
File your PA taxes
File PA Schedule OC with your K-1 and your state return by April 15.
5
Receive your refund
After your return is processed, the credit is applied. CTF lists mid-summer to fall as typical.
CTF: Join the SPE CTF Pennsylvania program details
Questions donors ask
Who can participate as an individual?
Through CTF's special purpose entity (SPE), individuals can take part if they own a business or work for a for-profit business. People who work for a non-profit or government employer also qualify if they file jointly with a spouse who works for a for-profit business, or if they own at least one share of a dividend-paying company that pays Pennsylvania tax.
How much do I need to owe in PA tax?
CTF requires at least $1,000 in Pennsylvania tax liability. You can contribute up to the amount of your liability. CTF's website has a calculator to estimate it.
What does a 90% credit mean?
Through the SPE you receive a Pennsylvania tax credit of 90% of your contribution, with a two-year commitment. For example, a $5,000 annual contribution produces a $4,500 PA tax credit, so the gift costs you about $500 each year before any federal tax effects. You make the contribution first and the credit comes through your tax return.
When can I sign up?
CTF accepts joinder agreements year-round. Credits are awarded based on availability, so earlier is better.
Can my business give?
Yes. A business can join the SPE, or apply directly to the state for credits (returning businesses on May 15, new businesses on July 1, when credits are awarded by lottery). Ask CTF which route fits your business.
Is my family looking for a scholarship instead?
See EITC Tuition Scholarships under Admissions.
Help the next family take that step
Thank you for partnering with RTCS families. We would be glad to talk with you.
Karl Leslie, RTCS Treasurer
kleslie@rtcsonline.org
412.787.5919
ACSI Children's Tuition Fund of PA
Pennsylvania SPE questions: ctf_spe@acsi.org
866.401.4801
General information, not tax advice. Please ask your tax advisor about your eligibility, how to use the credit, and federal tax treatment. Program details are from Children's Tuition Fund, checked October 2026, and may change. RTCS figures: 2022–23 and 2026–27 EITC totals (2026–27 is pledged); the 33% goal is from the RTCS strategic plan.