Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN)

The State of Ohio recently allowed the Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN) and other scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) to allow Ohioans to redirect their state tax dollars to support faith-based schools like Cornerstone Christian Academy.  This program allows residents who owe State of Ohio taxes to give up to $750 per person (filing individually) or up to $1500 per couple (filing jointly) to CCA through OCEN.ORG Residents who redirect the amount of their Ohio State tax liability to OCEN by April 15th (either by check or online at OCEN.ORG), are granted a TAX CREDIT for the full amount they have redirected.  This is not a deduction, but a dollar-for-dollar credit that meets all the requirements for filing.

Redirect Your Tax Revenue

Please direct questions to kprochaska@ccacornerstone.org.

To support students at Cornerstone and take advantage of the OCEN opportunity this year by redirecting your tax dollars:

1

Ask your tax professional to determine your State of Ohio tax liability for 2025.

2

Contribute that amount to the OCEN SGO fund for CCA students (Willoughby, OH) at OCEN.ORG by April 15, 2026.

3

Claim your scholarship donation TAX CREDIT on your 2025 tax return.

OCEN Mission

OCEN is an advocate for school choice and religious freedom in education and assist in equipping Christian schools to promote a Biblical worldview.

FAQ

How does the OCEN tax designation work?

Your OCEN SGO designation can be claimed when you file your Ohio taxes. Gifts made through April 15th can be retroactively applied to the previous year’s taxes. The credit is a dollar-to-dollar reduction in your state tax liability up to $750 per taxpayer. A married couple filing jointly can claim a credit of up to $1500. To receive the full tax credit, you must have an Ohio tax liability equal to or greater than the amount of the credit.

Yes. The tax credit is on a per-individual taxpayer basis. Married couples can receive two separate $750-deductions, totaling $1,500. To receive the maximum credit, spouses must list both of their names on the designation form so that a gift over $750 can be split between them.

You may do so! In that case, the first $750 will be granted a $750 state tax credit, and the amount of the gift beyond the initial $750 may be claimed as a federal and state tax deduction. Consult with your tax specialist to review your specific tax situation.

OCEN will accept designations year-round.

Yes, OCEN SGO is certified by the Ohio Attorney General.

The Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN)  is an advocate for school choice and religious freedom in education. Their goal is to equip Christian schools to promote a biblical worldview, protect the religious liberty of Christian schools and ensure every Ohio family has access to a Christ-centered education.