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Coming January 1, 2027

Arete Access

More access. More opportunities. More doors opened.

Beginning in 2027, the Education Freedom Tax Credit creates a new way for individuals to support K–12 educational opportunities.

100%federal income tax credit for qualifying contributions
$1,700per taxpayer each year, potentially $3,400 for married couples filing jointly
50 statesindividual taxpayers anywhere can take part
2027the program begins Jan. 1, 2027

What is Arete Access?

A new way to open doors for children in Georgia, Louisiana and Alabama

Arete Access is Arete Scholars’ planned initiative for the new Education Freedom Tax Credit. Eligible individuals can receive a 100% federal income tax credit for qualifying contributions, helping expand educational opportunities for children across Georgia, Louisiana, and Alabama.

The right educational opportunity can change a child’s life. Arete Access will expand access to resources and support that help children succeed in school and beyond.

Who it's for

For donors and for families

If you give

  • Receive a 100% federal income tax credit for qualifying donations to scholarship granting organizations like Arete Scholars
  • Claim up to $1,700 per taxpayer annually (potentially $3,400 for married couples filing jointly)
  • Available to individual taxpayers in all 50 states
  • No nationwide limit on total contributions

Corporations and electing pass-through entities do not qualify, but business owners and employees may participate as individuals.

If your child may qualify

  • Students must live in households with incomes at or below 300% of the area median income
  • Income limits vary by county or metropolitan area. View HUD income data
  • Students already enrolled in a private school may qualify if they meet the program’s eligibility requirements
  • Arete Access will help eligible students access educational opportunities, with details about covered expenses shared as the program develops
State participation States must formally opt in. Georgia, Louisiana, and Alabama have elected to participate.

Three steps

How the federal tax credit works

  1. Make a qualifying contribution

    Beginning Jan. 1, 2027

    Beginning in 2027, make a qualifying contribution to Arete Scholars through Arete Access.

  2. Open doors for children

    Your contribution helps eligible K–12 students access educational opportunities and resources.

  3. Claim your credit

    When you file your federal return

    Use your contribution documentation to claim the credit when you file your federal income tax return, subject to program requirements and your tax situation.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Program overview

What is the Education Freedom Tax Credit?

The Education Freedom Tax Credit allows eligible individuals to receive a 100% federal income tax credit for qualifying contributions to approved scholarship granting organizations, helping children access educational opportunities.

What is Arete Access?

Arete Access is Arete Scholars’ planned initiative for this new federal tax credit, designed to expand educational opportunities for children across Georgia, Louisiana, and Alabama.

When does the program start?

The federal tax credit takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Do all states participate?

States must formally opt in. Georgia, Louisiana, and Alabama have elected to participate, and individuals in all 50 states can make qualifying contributions to approved organizations in participating states.

Contributing

Who can participate?

Individual taxpayers in all 50 states may participate. Corporations are not eligible for the federal credit, but business owners and employees may participate as individuals.

How much can I contribute?

Eligible individuals can receive a 100% federal income tax credit on qualifying contributions of up to $1,700 per year. This is the annual credit limit, not a limit on how much you can give.

Can I support both Arete’s state and federal tax credit programs?

Yes. You can participate in both through separate qualifying contributions. The same contribution dollars cannot receive both a state and federal tax credit.

When can I contribute through Arete Access?

The federal credit begins Jan. 1, 2027. Arete will share contribution instructions as the program develops. To receive updates, sign up here.

Family & student eligibility

Who may qualify for support through Arete Access?

Students must meet program eligibility requirements, including a household income at or below 300% of the area median income. Income limits vary by county or metropolitan area. View HUD income data.

What will Arete Access cover?

Arete Access is being developed to expand educational opportunities for eligible children across Georgia, Louisiana and Alabama. We’ll share details about available support and covered expenses as the program evolves.

Can students receive support through both federal and state programs?

Students may qualify for both, subject to applicable program rules. Arete will share guidance on how these opportunities can work together.

Can students already attending a private school qualify?

Yes. Students currently enrolled in a private school may qualify if they meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

Program details

What is a scholarship granting organization (SGO)?

An SGO is a qualified nonprofit that provides scholarships for eligible students and must meet federal requirements. These organizations connect donor contributions with educational opportunities for children.

What happens next?

Arete is following federal guidance as we prepare to launch Arete Access. We’ll share updates and participation details as the program evolves.

How can my school or business get involved?

Fill out this form to express your interest in Arete Access and learn more about upcoming opportunities for your school or your employees.

What happens next?

We’ll share updates as the program evolves

As the U.S. Treasury develops program rules and guidance, Arete is closely following developments and preparing to launch Arete Access.

Arthur Dupré

Questions about the tax credit?

Arthur Dupré

President

adupre@aretescholars.org