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APPLY - Tax Credit Scholarship (TCS)

Overview​

In August 2017, with bipartisan support, the House and Senate passed a comprehensive education funding bill that was signed into law by the governor. The law includes a provision for tax credit scholarships, which provide strong incentives for donors to support non-public school scholarships for low-income students in the state. Illinois students from low-income families may use these scholarships to attend a non-public school of their choice. This legislation represented a major step forward that helped to create more equity in school funding throughout Illinois, and for the first time provide real school choice for students and their families.

Applying for a Tax Credit Scholarship
Through the “Invest in Kids Act,” Illinois students from low-income households in grades K-12 who want to attend private schools (including Catholic schools) have access to Illinois Tax Credit Scholarships. The scholarships offered through this program could cover up to 100 percent of tuition and eligible fees for the next school year. These scholarships are funded by donors who receive a credit on their Illinois state income tax as a result of their donation.

 

On this page you will find more information about how to apply and details on eligibility requirements.  You may also access up-to-date information on the official Archdiocese of Chicago website. 

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Additional Resources:

Verso l'alto!

Application Process: 

1. Complete the Admission Process for Frassati Catholic Academy

  • To be completed ASAP

  • For current families, please re-enroll via PowerSchool and complete the Tuition Contract which can be accessed on the Admissions Page.

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2. Complete Financial Assistance Application through FACTS 

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3. Apply for Tax Credit Scholarship (TCS) through Apply - Empower Illinois ​​

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What you need to apply: 

Based on what the Archdiocese of Chicago knows as of today, families will need the following documents in order to apply for a tax credit scholarship through the SGO's:

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  • Most recent tax return for 2021 or 2022 or W-2 forms, Form 1099, year-end pay stubs, or a letter on letterhead from your employer indicating cash wages paid

  • Proof of Illinois residency (driver's license, state ID or utility bill)

  • Documentation of student age (birth certificate, federal/state ID or passport)

  • If your student has a current Individualized Education Play (IEP), you must upload the IEP form

  • If you received a tax credit scholarship last year from an SGO other than Empower Illinois you will need to upload an award letter from the SGO where the scholarship was awarded.

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Do I Qualify?

You will enter the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) amount listed on your 2021 or 2022 tax return.  This is the amount you will use to identify which bracket you qualify for.  Please reference Do I Qualify for additional information on eligibility criteria

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