PA Tax Credit Program

We are excited to share an opportunity for families and local businesses to support Brookeside Montessori School through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. This program provides scholarships to make Montessori education accessible to more children in our community—and it can benefit you too.

How It Works for Families and Individuals

Individuals and couples filing jointly may participate if they have a state tax liability of $3,500 or more. Unlike income-based programs, eligibility depends on your tax liability, so each taxpayer’s situation will differ. To see if you may qualify, check Line 12 of Form PA-40 on your most recent Pennsylvania tax return.

If you qualify, your contribution to a special purpose entity, such as Central Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund, can be designated to benefit Brookeside Montessori School. Contributions made through the EITC program may allow you to receive a state tax credit, making it a powerful way to support local children while reducing your Pennsylvania tax liability.

Next Steps for Families and Individuals

  1. Check your Pennsylvania tax liability (Line 12 of Form PA-40).
  2. Partner with a special purpose entity, such as Central Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund, designating support for Brookeside Montessori School.
  3. Contact us with questions—we can guide you through the process or connect you with Central Pennsylvania Scholarship Fund.

How It Works for Businesses

Businesses authorized to do business in Pennsylvania can also participate. Eligible businesses may receive 75%–90% in state tax credits by contributing to approved scholarship organizations. Pre-K contributions may even qualify for up to 100% credit on a portion of the contribution. If a business qualifies, their contribution to an approved scholarship organization, such as Bridge Educational Foundation, can be designated to benefit Brookeside Montessori School.

Next Steps for Businesses

  1. Confirm Eligibility
    Verify that your business is authorized to operate in Pennsylvania and is subject to one or more eligible Pennsylvania state taxes (such as Corporate Net Income Tax, Personal Income Tax, Bank Shares Tax, or Insurance Premium Tax).
  2. Apply Through DCED
    Submit an application for the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program through the DCED Enterprise eGrants System. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so early submission is encouraged.
  3. Receive Approval Notification
    If approved, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will issue a notification letter confirming your approved tax credit amount.
  4. Make Your Contribution
    Within 60 days of receiving the approval letter, make your contribution to Bridge Educational Foundation, designating support for Brookeside Montessori School.
  5. Submit Proof of Contribution
    Within 90 days of the approval letter, provide proof to DCED that the contribution was made in accordance with program guidelines.
  6. Claim Your Tax Credit
    Apply the approved EITC credit against your Pennsylvania tax liability for the tax year in which the contribution was made.

Why Participate?

  • Make Montessori education more accessible for local families
  • Strengthen our community by investing in children’s futures
  • Receive a state tax credit for contributions made through the program

Your support—whether as a family or a business—helps Brookeside Montessori continue to provide an enriching, high-quality Montessori education for all children in our community.