Tax Credits for Contributions to Scholarship Organizations

Rhode Island

Tax-Credit Scholarship

Average Value

$3,009

Schools Participating

51

Student Eligibility

Students must have family incomes at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level ($78,000 for a family of four in 2024–2025). _(Last updated July 17, 2024)_

Use of Funds

Qualifying expenses include tuition and fees. _(Last updated July 17, 2024)_

Funding Amount & Source

Scholarships are funded by donations to Scholarship-Granting Organizations (SGOs). Businesses may receive tax credits for donations to SGOs. Those committing to donate for two consecutive years with the second year’s donation equal to or exceeding 80% of the first year’s donation may receive 90% tax credits. Otherwise, tax credits are worth 75% of donations to SGOs. Total credits claimed cannot exceed $1.6 million, meaning roughly 500 students can participate, or 1% of Rhode Island’s K–12 student population. _(Last updated July 17, 2024)_

Legal History

No legal challenges have been filed against the program. _(Last updated February 15, 2023)_

Program Timeline

2006

Program Enacted

Legislation passed to create the program

2007

Program Launched

Program began accepting applications

2024

Last Updated

July 17, 2024

Program Guidelines

Income Limit250% x FPL
Prior Public SchoolNone
Enrollment CapNone
Testing MandateNone
Special NeedsNone