HARRISBURG – The 529 tax credit, originally House Bill 1745 and co-prime sponsored by state Reps. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and Paul Friel (D-Chester), has been successfully incorporated into the recently signed Tax Code by Gov. Josh Shapiro. This new tax credit incentivizes employers to contribute to their employees’ PA 529 College and Career Savings Program accounts, providing substantial benefits to families across Pennsylvania and supporting workforce development.
House Bill 1745 expands the tax credit to encourage workforce development and ease the financial burden of higher education for Pennsylvania families. The PA 529 tax credit allows for a 25% tax credit on employer contributions of up to $500 per participating employee per year. This initiative encourages employers to support their employees’ educational savings, facilitating financial planning for future educational expenses.
“The 529 Act is an example of how we can, and must, work together to make progress for our families,” said Friel. “By finding common ground, building bipartisan connections and remembering who we serve – the people of Pennsylvania – I’m proud that we are making saving for college or career training that much more accessible.”
“Addressing the skills gap and strengthening our workforce starts with access to education,” said Marcell. “By encouraging employers to invest in their employees’ futures, this tax credit supports Pennsylvania families and builds a more skilled and educated workforce. We are making it easier for families to save for higher education, ensuring that our students have the opportunities they need to succeed.”
“This tax credit is outstanding news. It will encourage employers to help employees save with our tremendous PA 529 College and Career Savings Program and PA ABLE Savings Program for people with disabilities,” said Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity. “That will be a huge help to families across Pennsylvania, and by offering this new benefit, employers will become even more attractive places to work. I thank Rep. Friel and Rep. Marcell for their great work getting this tax credit enacted.”
The PA 529 program, known for its flexibility and growing popularity, offers two savings plan options to cover various educational expenses, laying a strong foundation for the initiative. House Bill 1745 underscores the importance of workforce development in sustaining economic growth and competitiveness.
