How to Apply for the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program
For Businesses Supporting Lancaster Public Library
Step 1: Check Your Business’s Eligibility
Your business must pay at least one of the following Pennsylvania state taxes:
- Personal Income Tax of S corporation shareholders, or partners in an LLP, LLC, or partnership
- Corporate Net Income Tax
- Capital Stock/Foreign Franchise Tax
- Insurance Premiums Tax
- Bank Shares Tax
- Title Insurance & Trust Company Shares Tax
- Mutual Thrift Tax
- Malt Beverage Tax
Step 2: Choose Lancaster Public Library
Decide which approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO) you will support.
➡️ Lancaster Public Library is an approved EIO and proudly accepts EITC contributions to support educational programs like Summer Reading and Teacher Book Bundles.
Step 3: Create or Log In to Keystone Account
Go to the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) single application portal and create a Keystone Login account or login to an existing account.
Step 4: Apply Online (May 15 or July 1)
Use the DCED Single Application for Assistance portal to apply:
- May 15: For businesses renewing a 2-year commitment or in the middle of a 2-year commitment.
- July 1: For first-time applicants and 1-year renewals
Apply as early as possible—funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 5: Wait for Approval Letter
If approved, your business will receive a letter from DCED outlining your donation deadline (typically 60 days from the date of the letter).
Step 6: Make Your Donation
Send your donation directly to the Educational Improvement Organization you selected.
➡️ For donations to Lancaster Public Library, contact: Jon Heinly, Director of Donor Advising
📧 jheinly@lancasterpubliclibrary.org
📞 717-394-2651 ext. 2120
Step 7: Submit Proof of Contribution
Send a receipt or acknowledgment letter from the organization (on official letterhead, stating the donation amount and date) to DCED within 90 days of your approval letter. Lancaster Public Library will provide this acknowledgement letter promptly after receipt of your donation.
Step 8: Claim the Tax Credit
Your business may receive:
- 75% of the eligible donation amount in tax credits (1-year commitment)
- 90% of the eligible donation amount in tax credits (2-year commitment)
Apply the credit to your Pennsylvania state tax return to reduce your liability.
To find more details about the EITC program, visit Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development website, review the program’s Business Guidelines, or contact
Jon Heinly, Director of Donor Advising
📧 jheinly@lancasterpubliclibrary.org
📞 717-394-2651 ext. 2120