EITC and OSTC

The Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) Programs give individuals and businesses the opportunity to turn their PA tax dollars into need-based scholarships, enabling qualifying students to attend Gwynedd Mercy.

WHY PARTICIPATE?

• High Impact, Low Cost: You can make a donation to Gwynedd Mercy with minimal out-of-pocket expense. For example,. a $5,000 contribution can lead to a $4,500 tax credit (90% of state taxes owed) and provide up to $5,000 in scholarship funds—all for just $315 out of pocket.
• Support All Girls Mercy Education: Your participation will help ensure a Gwynedd Mercy education is accessible to all accepted students, regardless of financial circumstances.
• Enrich Our Community: Your participation will strengthen our school community and support our mission.

HOW IT WORKS

• Choose Your Commitment: Select a two-year or one-year commitment and determine your contribution amount. With a two-year commitment, you can receive a 90% tax credit each year; a one-year commitment offers a 75% tax credit. To determine your contribution amount, refer to your previous year's tax liability, found on line 12 of your PA-40 tax form.
• Join Through BLOCS or FCE: Participate by joining a special-purpose LLC managed by Gwynedd's partners — Business Leaders Organized by Catholic Schools (BLOCS) or the Foundation for Catholic Education (FCE). BLOCS requires a minimum annual contribution of $5,000, while FCE requires $1,000 or more.
• Make Your Contribution: Your initial contribution is due at the time of signing, with the second contribution for a two-year commitment usually due by July 1 of the following year.
• Receive Your Tax Credits: In February, BLOCS or FCE will provide you with a K-1 form to include when filing your taxes, confirming your participation in the EITC/OSTC program. After you file your taxes, the state will issue your tax credit payment (please note that this may take several months). Be sure to consult your tax advisor to explore any additional federal tax benefits you may be eligible for.
• Support Gwynedd Mercy: Your donation directly funds tuition scholarships for qualifying students with financial need. 

Note: Businesses can also apply directly through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to participate before May 15 (if renewing an ongoing commitment) or July 1 (if applying for a new commitment).

A brief conversation and 15 minutes to complete a simple form was all it took for me to make an impact that will last a lifetime."  

Kathleen Kirk Bellwoar '81, Past Chair, Board of Trustees

READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Please contact Director of Annual Giving Colleen Corace Connor '86, P'25, '28 at 267-946-0992 or ccoraceconnor@gmahs.org for more information and to participate.