ACSTO and Tax Credits

Arizona offers a unique opportunity for state taxpayers to make contributions to students at a private school and receive a dollar-for-dollar credit against their state tax liability when they file their state taxes.

Giving a tax credit donation to Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization (ACSTO) costs you nothing extra as it is money you would otherwise have to pay to the state as a tax payment. If you are to receive a refund when you file your state taxes, your refund will increase by your donation amount; if you owe, your tax liability will be reduced by your donation amount. Either way, this is a WIN for you as a taxpayer and a WIN for our Valley Christian students!

Tax Credit Amounts

For the 2025 tax claim year, Arizona taxpayers can give any amount up to $3,062 (married couples filing jointly) or $1,535 (single taxpayers), or their actual state tax liability (whichever is less). The taxpayer must first donate the $1,535 (married) or $769 (single) maximum for the Original tax credit before any additional amount can be applied to the Overflow Tax Credit, up to another $1,527 (married) or $766 (single).

Explore ACSTO’s How Much Can I Donate? page for help in determining the amount you can give and claim a tax credit for.

Please identify Valley Christian Schools with your donation or recommend a Valley Christian student who is not your own dependent.

When to Donate

You can donate at any time of the year! For donations made between January 1 and Tax Day, you may choose to claim the tax credit for the previous or current tax year. If claiming for the previous tax year, your donation must be made before you file your state taxes or by Tax Day, whichever comes first. Even if you are requesting a tax extension, your donation must be postmarked or submitted online prior to midnight on Tax Day for you to claim the tax credit on your extended tax return.

How to Donate

Online:
Give through ACSTO’s secure Donor Portal with a credit or debit card. If you prefer to spread out your giving, schedule monthly donations through your Donor Portal account.

Phone:
Call ACSTO at 480.820.0403 to donate by credit or debit card. Phone hours are Monday-Friday 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm.

Mail:
Complete a Donor Card and mail it to ACSTO with your check or credit/debit card information. Donor Cards are also available in our School Offices or by calling ACSTO at 480.820.0403.

Payroll Withholding Contributions:
Arizona employers can send your state payroll withholdings directly to ACSTO as your tax credit donation—and it doesn’t affect your take-home pay! Visit ACSTO’s Payroll Withholdings page, then ask your employer if this is an option they are willing to offer.

Matching Gifts:
ACSTO works with donors to take advantage of their company’s Matching Gifts programs.