Give to Our Scholarship Fund with State Tax Advantages

 The State of Ohio has certified the Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict Scholarship Fund as a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).

Turn Your State Taxes Into Scholarships

The Ohio Department of Taxation provides a scholarship donation credit, which essentially allows taxpayers to direct their state taxes to scholarship-granting organizations.

When any Ohio taxpayer donates to a scholarship granting organization (SGO), they can claim a dollar for dollar non-refundable tax credit up to $750 per donor and $1,500 for married couples filing jointly.

Maximize Your Donation by Writing a Check

Please help us maximize your donation by avoiding credit and debit card processing fees. Mail checks payable to:

Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict Scholarship Fund
5830 North High Street
Worthington, Ohio 43085

Thank you for your generosity! Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict Scholarship Fund is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All donations go directly to student financial aid.

If you’re unsure of what your state tax burden is or how the non-refundable tax credit works, talk to your financial advisor.

Donate Now

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.