The SGO Tax Credit
A gift that costs you nothing, but means EVERYTHING.
Support CVCA Students at No Cost to You!
The Ohio Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) program is a powerful way to turn your state tax liability into life-changing scholarships for CVCA students. By donating through our partner, the Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN) SGO, you can provide a Christ-centered education to deserving students while receiving a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Ohio income taxes.
How It Works
Giving is simple, and the impact is immediate. When you contribute to the SGO and designate CVCA as the recipient, you are essentially “redirecting” taxes you already owe to help our students.
Give
Make a gift online to the OCEN SGO.
Designate
Select “Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy” from the school drop-down menu.
Claim
Receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Ohio state income tax return.
Donations received by April 15, 2026 count toward your 2025 tax return. Gifts received after that date apply to your 2026 return. We encourage you to consult with your tax professional to confirm your specific tax liability and how this credit applies to your situation.
Anyone with an Ohio tax liability can benefit from this program! It’s a fantastic opportunity for parents, grandparents, alumni, and friends of CVCA to make a significant difference.
| Donor Type | Max Annual Tax Credit |
|---|---|
| Individual Taxpayer | Up to $750 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Up to $1,500* |
*Note: To receive the full $1,500 credit, married couples must make two separate $750 donations – one in each spouse's name.
- Zero Net Cost: If you have an Ohio tax liability of at least the amount you give, your gift costs you nothing after your tax credit is applied.
- Priority Impact: Your donations are used specifically for scholarships, with priority given to students with demonstrated financial need.
- Beyond CVCA: You don’t need a current student at CVCA to participate. Any Ohio taxpayer can choose to support our mission!
Your generosity ensures that a CVCA education remains accessible to all families who seek it.
We’re here to help! For more information on how the SGO program works for you and CVCA, please contact John Harabedian at 330-929-0575, ext. 324 or email the Development Office at development@cvcaroyals.org.
Voices From Our Community
Don’t just take our word for it. Hear how our small school system shapes students’ hearts, minds, and faith.
“I am thankful to be at CVCA because I am surrounded by people who not only aid me academically, but guide me in my walk in Christ. I feel safe in this environment, and am thankful that I get to go to a place that encourages and loves me.”
Abigail Student
“I am thankful to be at CVCA because I am surrounded by people who not only aid me academically, but guide me in my walk in Christ. I feel safe in this environment.”
Xavier Student
“I was shocked at how easy it was to use SGO to give money to CVCA! I wish this option had been available earlier in my life! I STRONGLY encourage you to take advantage of this tax break to bless the school.”
Mark Parent of Alumni
Take Your Next Step With CVCA
Apply today to experience a Christian school that combines academic excellence with genuine faith.
CVCA is a private school in Northeast Ohio for 6th-12th graders. We prepare students for college, calling, and a life of purpose through a Christ-centered education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover answers to our most commonly asked questions. Don’t see your question answered? Connect with us today to chat.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact John Harabedian, CVCA Director of Development at jharabedian@cvcaroyals.org or call 330-929-0575, ext. 324.
What is the deadline for making a donation and receiving a tax credit for 2025?
Contributions received January 1, 2025 through April 15, 2026 may be claimed for the 2025 Ohio tax return. Contributions received after April 15, 2026 may be applied to the 2026 tax year.
How is the credit reported on the Ohio return?
Report the credit on Line 7 of the 2025 Ohio IT 1040, and complete the state-provided Schedule of Credits.
Documentation: Please retain and submit (as required) the email receipt issued by OCEN for the contribution.
Can a tax credit also be claimed on my client's federal tax return?
No. This credit applies only to Ohio state taxes. However, if your client's contribution exceeds the amount eligible for the Ohio tax credit, the excess may be claimed as a charitable deduction on the federal return (if the client itemizes).
Can a business entity claim this credit?
No. This credit is available only to individual taxpayers.
What if my client's Ohio tax liability is less than the maximum credit?
The tax credit cannot exceed the amount of your client's Ohio tax liability. For example, if the total Ohio tax liability is $500, the maximum credit allowed is $500.
What is the state law that makes this tax credit possible?
What is a tax credit?
Donors who contribute through the OCEN SGO may receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction in their Ohio income tax liability, up to:
- $750 per individual taxpayer
- $1,500 for married couples filing jointly
What is OCEN?
OCEN stands for The Ohio Christian Education Network and has been established as an SGO, in which CVCA is a participating school.
What is an SGO?
A Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that receives contributions from donors and grants educational scholarships to eligible students in Ohio. The SGO program was enacted in 2021 as part of Ohio House Bill 110.
How does my client make their donation to the CVCA SGO?
Your client can donate through the OCEN Scholarship Granting Organization.
FAQ for Tax Preparers
The information below is provided to assist you in claiming the Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) tax credit on your client's Ohio income tax return.
We encourage you to consult with your tax professional to confirm your specific tax liability and how this credit applies to your situation.