Tax Credit Scholarships

Maximize your state and federal tax savings while opening doors for Independence Academy students.

Your gift to The Independence Academy doesn’t just support a school—it opens doors for students who need it most. Through tax credit scholarship programs, your donation helps families access a transformative education in a safe, supportive environment. When you give through Sagamore and designate The Independence Academy, you will receive a 50% credit on your Indiana state taxes, and as of January 1, 2027, donors can also take advantage of a 100% federal tax credit (up to $1,700 annually).

The Independence Academy partners with the Sagamore Institute’s Scholarships for Education Choice program, an approved Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) managing both state and federal tax-credit options.

  • Give confidently. Your donation goes directly to scholarships for IA students.

  • Give flexibly. Contribute by cash or donate appreciated stocks to maximize your tax savings.

  • Give with impact. Every dollar helps a student thrive in a school built for their success.

 

Make your gift

Other ways to donate

We warmly welcome contributions made through non-cash assets, such as appreciated stock, mutual funds, or securities, which may offer significant tax advantages. Additionally, for those who prefer to give offline, checks can be easily sent by mail.

Non-Cash Assets
Check / Mail-in Form
 

Indiana tax credit

Potential Tax Savings (50%)

  1. Based on a 35% income tax bracket. Actual after-tax “cost” will vary based on donor’s bracket.

  2. This chart is for example purposes only. Consult with a tax or financial advisor to learn your specific benefit.

 

Federal tax credit

As of January 1, 2027, donors can take advantage of a new federal scholarship opportunity in addition to the state SGO program.

Through this federal initiative, individuals can receive a 100% federal tax credit on contributions up to $1,700 annually, with the added benefit of carrying forward any unused credits for up to five years.

Please note that federal contributions must be kept entirely separate from the state program and will utilize a distinct online donation pathway. Additionally, student scholarship eligibility guidelines for the federal program will be determined using HUD numbers, which differ slightly from Indiana's state eligibility criteria.

 

How the SGO Tax Credit Scholarship works

 

  • The Tax Credit Scholarship Program is open to both individuals and corporations.

  • Donors receive a 50% state tax credit against their Indiana state tax liability. As of January 1, 2027, a separate 100% federal tax credit program will also be available for gifts up to $1,700.

  • All donations received by Sagamore Institute designated for The Independence Academy will be used for needs-based tuition assistance scholarships.

    To be eligible for a State SGO scholarship, a student must be an incoming or enrolled student at The Independence Academy and meet the required household income guidelines. As of July 1, 2026, the state of Indiana has $18.5 million in tax credit funds available for the fiscal year. Annual income verification is required for all state SGO applicants.

  • Complete the online form above, or download and complete this form and mail it along with your check (made payable to “Sagamore Institute SGO”) to the address noted on the form.

    To donate non-cash assets, complete and submit this online form, at which time further instructions will be provided.

  • For tax benefit information and to calculate tax savings, visit the Sagamore Institute website. We also encourage all donors to consult with a tax or financial advisor.

    Additional questions about SGO scholarships at The Independence Academy may be directed to Marisa Gill at marisagill@iaindiana.org or 317.926.0043.