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.
