Redirect Your Ohio Taxes to WC by April 15—No Catch, Just Impact
Let’s put it this way: If you could pay the government $1,500 less in taxes and use that same $1,500 to help a family afford a Worthington Christian School education, would you do it? Through the Ohio Christian Education Network’s Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) program, you can do exactly that. By redirecting a portion of your Ohio tax liability, you’ll provide life-changing tuition assistance for WC students—all at no additional cost to you. Contributions for the 2024 tax year can be made through April 15, 2025, making it easier than ever to maximize your impact.
Here’s How It Works In 2 Minutes
Still Not Sure?
We get it—this might sound too good to be true. Most things that seem that way usually are, but not this time. To help ease any doubts, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Don’t just take our word for it, though—talk to your tax preparer or financial advisor to confirm how this incredible opportunity works for you.
Q: How does this process work, step by step?
A: It’s as simple as 1-2-3 (and 4):
- Go to ohiocen.org/ocen-sgo/ and set up an account.
- Select “Worthington Christian School” and make your contribution. OCEN will email you a receipt immediately.
- Claim a credit for your contribution on your Ohio tax return (Schedule of Credits/Scholarship donation credit) and include your receipt when filing.
- Celebrate how easy it was and encourage others to do the same!
Q: I understand that an SGO donation generates a tax credit. How is that different from a tax deduction?
A: Both a tax credit and a tax deduction serve you well, but in different ways. A tax deduction, such as when you make a charitable donation directly to WC, reduces your taxable income, lowering the amount of income subject to tax. A tax credit, like the one available through the SGO program, directly reduces the taxes you owe, dollar for dollar, making it a more immediate and impactful benefit. Both options provide meaningful ways to support WC while benefiting you financially.
Q: Supporting WC without costing me anything? Where’s the catch?
A: There’s no catch. You’re redirecting part of your Ohio tax liability to WC. The only requirement is to contribute upfront, with a possible delay before receiving the tax benefit. Minimize this by contributing just before filing—up until April 15.
Q: Is the maximum contribution required?
A: No, you can contribute any amount up to the $750 per person ($1,500 per couple) limit. Just ensure your tax liability is at least equal to your contribution to maximize the benefit.
Q: What does “Ohio tax liability” mean?
A: It’s the total taxes owed before factoring in withholdings, payments, or credits. For example, if you owe $1,000 in taxes but have $750 withheld, your balance due is $250, but your liability is still $1,000. Contributing $750 to an SGO would turn your $250 balance due into a $500 refund.
Q: How do SGO contributions help Worthington Christian?
A: Contributions fund tuition assistance for WC families, reducing the need to pull from the general budget. This allows more resources to go toward teacher salaries and educational enhancements.
Make a Lasting Impact
Redirecting a portion of your tax liability can transform lives, strengthen Worthington Christian’s mission, and maximize your financial stewardship. Get started today and be part of something greater. For additional information, feel free to contact Finance and Operations Director Randy Steckel by email or at 614-410-4339.