Atlanta, GA — Governor Brian Kemp today announced that Georgia has opted in to a new federal scholarship tax credit program created by Congress earlier this year. The program, which begins in 2027, will allow individual taxpayers to receive a dollar-for-dollar federal income tax credit for contributions that fund K-12 private school scholarships and other education related expenses.

The federal scholarship tax credit is modeled in part after successful state-level programs, including Georgia’s long-standing education expense tax credit program administered by organizations such as the GOAL Scholarship Program.

“This federal program represents an additional opportunity to support families seeking educational options for their children,” said Ben Saylor, President of GOAL. “Importantly, it builds on, rather than replaces, Georgia’s existing education tax credit program, which is a proven solution that broadens educational access and delivers measurable value to taxpayers.”

Beginning January 1, 2027, individual taxpayers will be able to claim a federal income tax credit of up to $1,700 per year per taxpayer for contributions to the GOAL Scholarship Program. Contributions will fund scholarships for eligible students, defined as those from families earning less than 300% of the median area income. While donors may reside anywhere in the country, scholarships may only be awarded to students within states that opt in, such as Georgia.

While the federal program creates future opportunity, Georgia’s state education tax credit program remains essential, particularly as demand for scholarships continues to exceed available funding. In addition, the federal tax credit program does not allow for business participation, which is an invaluable and impactful element of the state tax credit program.

“Georgia’s education tax credit has responsibly grown over the last 18 years, showing fiscal savings for the state and better outcomes for families,” said Ben Saylor. “Expanding the state cap remains the most immediate and dependable way to help more Georgia students access the schools that work best for them.”

For more information about GOAL Scholarship Program, visit www.goalscholarship.org. 

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