Wyoming opens applications for nonprofits seeking to run scholarships under the federal tax credit
The Wyoming Department of Education began taking applications on Oct. 12 from nonprofits that want to be scholarship granting organizations in 2027. Applications are due Dec. 1, and the governor's office gives final approval.
Cheyenne. Nonprofits that want to give scholarships to Wyoming schoolchildren under the new federal tax credit can now apply to the state. The Wyoming Department of Education said on Oct. 12 that it is accepting applications from organizations seeking to be listed as qualified scholarship granting organizations, and that those applying by Dec. 1 can be approved for the 2027 tax year.
Starting Jan. 1, 2027, individual taxpayers who give to an approved organization may claim a dollar-for-dollar federal income tax credit of up to $1,700 a year. The organizations use the gifts for scholarships to eligible Wyoming students in kindergarten through 12th grade, which may pay for tuition, tutoring, instructional materials and other qualifying educational expenses, the department said. Wyoming is on the Internal Revenue Service's list of states that have elected to take part in 2027, dated Sept. 14.
Who decides
The department reviews the applications on a rolling basis and sends its recommendations to the governor's office, which gives final approval. An organization cannot collect money until it is approved. The state will post its annual list of approved organizations beginning in January 2027. The department encouraged nonprofits to apply early so they are designated before the tax year starts.
Applicants must meet federal law and Wyoming's administrative rules, and show they can manage scholarship funds, keep transparent financial records and serve Wyoming students, the department said.
What the application asks
The online form, which cites the federal temporary and proposed regulations for the credit, asks for the organization's employer identification number and a physical address in Wyoming. Applicants say whether they operate only in Wyoming or in several states, in which case they must keep separate accounting for Wyoming funds. They state whether they are an active 501(c)(3) public charity or have an application for that status pending, and confirm that they hold a dedicated account for the credit's money.
An established organization attaches its operating history, financial records and earlier audit reports. A new one relies on its governing documents, bylaws and written policies. An officer certifies, under penalty of perjury, that the organization follows the federal rules on the number of students served, minimum spending, priority in awarding scholarships, verification of family income, residency and self-dealing, and commits to an annual audit and to reporting material changes.
About this story
501c3.help wrote this story from the sources listed with it, not from material an organization sent. Our editors approved it on Oct. 13, 2026. Stories in The Nonprofit Herald are free, and nothing is asked in return. Editorial rules.
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