Give to Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund with State Tax Advantages

Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict is now a part of the Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund, a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).

Turn Your State Taxes into Scholarships

Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict Scholarship Fund is now a part of the Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund, the Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) of the Diocese of Columbus. This program allows Ohio taxpayers to directly support student tuition assistance at Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict while also giving donors up to a $1,500 state of Ohio tax credit.

By making a contribution to this fund and designating Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict as the recipient, donors receive a dollar-for-dollar non-refundable tax credit up to $750 per donor and $1,500 for married couples filing jointly. (Read more about the Ohio Department of Taxation scholarship donation credit.) If you’re unsure of what your state tax burden is or how the non-refundable tax credit works, see our FAQs below and talk to your financial advisor.

We kindly ask that your SGO contribution be in addition to your current level of support for Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict. Every dollar directed to our school through this program goes directly to student financial aid, allowing us to turn no family away because of finances.

Designate Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict

The Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund assists Catholic schools across the Diocese of Columbus. In order for your dollars to help Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict in our mission of forming joyful leaders and saints, you must direct your gift by designating our school as the recipient. Look for us in the drop-down list under the Donation Amount.

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Emmaus Road Scholarship Fund

Important

Remember to search for and select Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict as the recipient in the “School Designation” section of the form.

For questions or more information, contact donate@casbcolumbus.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an SGO in Ohio?  

An SGO (Scholarship Granting Organization) in Ohio is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit that distributes scholarships to K–12 students attending private schools. SGOs are approved by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and must comply with state guidelines to distribute tax-credit eligible scholarships.

2. Why should I donate to an SGO in Ohio?   

When you donate to an Ohio-certified SGO:

  • You help fund student scholarships for private schools, including faith-based schools like Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict.

  • You receive a 100% Ohio state income tax credit, up to $750 per individual or $1,500 for married couples filing jointly.

  • You invest directly in educational opportunity and school choice.

  3. How does the Ohio tax credit work?  

Your donation to a certified SGO:

  • Qualifies for a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your Ohio state income tax liability (up to $750 single / $1,500 married filing jointly).

  • Must be made to an SGO certified by the Ohio Attorney General.

  • May also be eligible for a federal charitable tax deduction.

 Example: Donate $1,500 to an approved SGO → receive a $1,500 credit on your Ohio state taxes.

4. Is my donation also federally tax deductible?   

Yes—because SGOs are 501(c)(3) organizations, your gift may also qualify for a federal income tax deduction, though you should consult your accountant regarding deductibility if you’ve already received a state tax credit.

5. Who is eligible to receive these scholarships?   

SGO scholarships in Ohio are awarded to students:

  • Whose family income is at or below 300% of the federal poverty level, and

  • Who are enrolled or planning to enroll in a participating nonpublic school.

Each SGO sets its own process for scholarship applications and distribution, within state regulations.

6. How much can I donate and still receive the full tax credit?   

  • Individuals: Up to $750 per tax year.

  • Married couples filing jointly: Up to $1,500 ($750 per spouse, must donate separately to receive full benefit).

  • Larger gifts are welcome, but only the first $750/$1,500 qualifies for the tax credit.

8. Can businesses or organizations donate?  

Yes, but businesses do not receive the Ohio tax credit—only individuals do. However, business donations may still qualify for federal charitable tax deductions.