Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit

River Tech is thrilled to participate in the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit program, signed into law on February 27, 2025. We're excited to share that this initiative offers up to $5,000 per child (or $7,500 for special needs students) to help cover tuition starting July 1, 2025. While families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level get priority, every family is welcome to apply.
 

What is the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit?

Idaho families can now receive up to $5,000 per student (or $7,500 for students with disabilities) as a refundable tax credit for qualifying education expenses in 2025. This includes private school tuition, tutoring, curriculum, textbooks, assessments, and transportation.
 

The credit is refundable, which means even if you owe little or no state income tax, you can still receive the full benefit. You'll pay tuition out-of-pocket throughout the year, then receive the credit when you file your 2025 tax return (in early 2026).
 

Does River Tech Qualify?

Yes — but it depends on which program your child is enrolled in:

• 4-5 day students (full-time program): ✅ Qualifies under K-12 tuition at a non-public school

• 1-2 day students (homeschool program): ❌ Does not qualify
   

Important Details to Know

Income Priority
Families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty line (approximately $96,000 for a family of four or $109,000 for a family of five) will receive priority. However, there is no income limit — all families can apply.

Enrollment Restrictions
Students enrolled in public school programs (including Harmony, Braintree, or HomeEd 360) are considered public school students and would need to disenroll to qualify for the credit.

Limited Funding
The program is capped at $50 million statewide, which will support approximately 10,000 students on a first-come, first-served basis. This means applying early — on the first day the application opens — is critical.

How to Apply
You'll apply directly through the Idaho State Tax Commission. Keep all receipts for tuition and qualifying expenses paid in 2025 — you'll need them when you file your application.

School Requirements
To qualify, schools don't need accreditation—just a journal tracking progress in core subjects like English, math, social studies, and science. We're enhancing our curriculum by doubling social studies and science classes to twice a week and introducing progress report cards.
 

Important Dates

• Before December 1, 2025: Register for a TAP account with the Idaho State Tax Commission

• January 15, 2026: Application period opens — apply on Day 1 to maximize your chances

• March 15, 2026: Application period closes

• April 15, 2026: Families will be notified of approval
   

Your Steps to Secure the Tax Credit

1. Enroll for 2025–26 to receive your enrollment confirmation letter. Click here to enroll.

2. Pay Tuition: If possible, pay the remainder of your full year's tuition upfront for a 5% discount and a single receipt, which could simplify your tax credit application. Otherwise, save all monthly payment records starting July 1, 2025.

3. Register for a TAP account with the Idaho State Tax Commission by December 1, 2025.

4. Apply on Day 1 (January 15, 2026) when the application opens.

Learn More

You can find more information about the credit, eligibility requirements, and how to apply at idahokidswin.com or on the Idaho State Tax Commission website at tax.idaho.gov/parentalchoicecredit.

 

Have questions? We're here to help every step of the way—reach out at learn@rivertech.me.

River Tech School is fully aligned with the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit and committed to keeping you updated on all developments.