Wisconsin Private School Tuition Deduction
We do not administer or manage any programs. For help or official support, visit the state’s program website. Program information verified using official state information.
How does this program work?
The Wisconsin Private School Tuition Deduction is a state tax benefit which began in 2014. Using this tax benefit, families can deduct private school tuition expenses from their taxable income. This deduction aims to provide financial assistance to all families in Wisconsin choosing private school education.
Why this matters to families in Wisconsin:
The Wisconsin Private School Tuition Deduction program supports parents who choose a private school for their child’s education. It ensures families have additional financial support for this choice.
Award amounts for 2025-2026
Tax Deduction
Tax Deduction Amount for Tuition Paid to Private Schools:
- Elementary student: $4,000
- Secondary student: $10,000
You can subtract the amount paid to send your dependent child to an eligible private school from your taxable income. But, you cannot subtract the tuition funds you withdraw from an Edvest or Tomorrow’s Scholar college savings account from your taxable income.
Who is eligible for this program?
For the family to qualify for the Wisconsin Private School Tuition Deduction, a student must enroll in a private school that meets the state’s definition under Wisconsin Statute 118.165. Also, there are no income limits or other eligibility criteria based on the student’s academic performance or family circumstances.
How can families use the funds?
The Private School Tuition Deduction is a tax benefit for families. It is not a direct funding source for students or schools. Families claim the deduction on their state income tax return to reduce their taxable income based on the eligible tuition expenses paid for their children’s private school education.
What are the program rules and requirements?
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Wisconsin.
- Educational Status: Students in a private school in grades K-12 grades.
- School Requirements: Review the list of eligible private schools to ensure you are allowed to take the deduction for the private school your child attends. Also, the private school tuition subtraction is not limited to private schools in Wisconsin but must conform to the state’s definition under Wisconsin Statute 118.165.
How do families apply?
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your private school is eligible. Review the list of eligible private schools to ensure you are allowed to take the deduction for the private school your child attends. The private school tuition subtraction is not limited to private schools in Wisconsin but must conform to the state’s definition under Wisconsin Statute 118.165.
- Gather Documentation: Collect the required documents for your Wisconsin income tax return. See the program FAQs on the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue site.
- File Wisconsin State Income Tax Return: Review the Tax Preparation Checklist from the State of Wisconsin Department of Revenue. If needed, seek assistance from professional advisors to ensure compliance with program requirements and maximize your tax benefits.
Where can families learn more?
For other Wisconsin School Choice Programs: Refer to our Wisconsin State Summary.