Colorado

Opted In

Opted in on January 29, 2026

Jared Polis

Governor , D

“It's a no-brainer for the state to take advantage of the education freedom tax credit scholarship program. It's a real boom of investment in kids.”

Governor Jared Polis, November 2025 (The Colorado Sun)

EFTC Status in Colorado

Governor Jared Polis (D) submitted IRS Form 15714 on January 29, 2026. Notable as one of only two Democratic governors to opt in.

Great news!

Colorado has opted in to the Education Freedom Tax Credit.

IRS Form 15714 Advance Election submitted January 29, 2026. Governor announced intent December 5, 2025.

ACE Scholarships (Denver-based, need-based K-12) and Seeds of Hope (Catholic school scholarships) already operate in Colorado.

EFTC Readiness Checklist for Colorado Schools

Colorado has opted in to the EFTC. Use this 7-step checklist to prepare your school for participation.

1

Confirm Eligibility

Verify your school is an eligible K-12 institution (private, religious, or homeschool cooperative) under EFTC program rules.

2

Identify SGOs

Research which Scholarship Granting Organizations operate in Colorado. Contact them to understand application processes and timelines.

3

Estimate Family Eligibility

Use the EFTC Income Eligibility Calculator to estimate how many of your families fall within the 300% median income threshold.

Open Calculator
4

Prepare Documentation

Gather documentation of qualifying educational expenses: tuition, fees, tutoring, curriculum materials, and educational therapy costs.

5

Designate a Coordinator

Assign an EFTC coordinator to manage scholarship applications, SGO partnerships, and family communications.

6

Develop Communication Plan

Create materials to inform families about EFTC eligibility, the application process, and covered expenses. Plan for information sessions and one-on-one support.

7

Build SGO Relationships

Establish relationships with at least one SGO before the application window opens. Understand their requirements, reporting expectations, and disbursement timelines.

Recent News

Governor Polis formally submitted Colorado's Advance Election via IRS Form 15714.

January 29, 2026 · CPR News

Read Full Article

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Colorado has opted in. Explore eligibility tools and school readiness resources to make the most of the Education Freedom Tax Credit.

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