Every year, millions of Italians face an important choice when filing their taxes: allocating the 8xmille (0.8%) to a religious denomination or to the state. It seems like a simple act—a signature on a form—but it is actually much more. It is a concrete way to support communities, charitable projects, and missions that bring hope around the world. Thanks to these donations, the Catholic Church can carry out works that would otherwise be impossible.
This year's awareness campaign, with the slogan “it's more than you think,” invites us to reflect on the deep value of this choice. It is not just a tax obligation, but an opportunity to actively participate in the life of the Christian community and to be part of a great network of solidarity.
Numbers That Speak of Charity
The most recent data, from 2025, show the concrete impact of these signatures. Thanks to the generosity of over 11 million taxpayers, the Church was able to allocate 280 million euros to charitable interventions. Of these, 150 million went to dioceses to support local works, such as soup kitchens for the poor, counseling centers, and shelters. Another 50 million were used to respond to national emergencies, such as floods or earthquakes, while 80 million were sent to the poorest countries in the world for development and humanitarian aid projects.
Furthermore, 384 million euros were used to support about 31,000 priests, who are daily alongside communities, offering comfort and support to those in fragile situations. Finally, 350 million were dedicated to worship and pastoral needs, from church maintenance to the protection of artistic heritage.
“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1 John 4:11, NIV)
This verse reminds us that concrete love translates into acts of sharing. The 8xmille is one of those acts: a way to love your neighbor without even leaving home.
A Choice That Unites the Entire Christian Community
The 8xmille is not just financial aid; it is a sign of belonging. Signing for the Catholic Church means becoming part of a solidarity network that spans Italy and the world. It is a gesture that unites Catholics, Orthodox, Protestants, and all Christians who believe in the importance of supporting works of mercy.
In an age when individualism seems to prevail, the 8xmille reminds us that we are called to care for one another. As the apostle Paul writes: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV).
How the 8xmille Works
The procedure is simple: during tax filing (model 730 or Unico), the taxpayer can choose to allocate the 8xmille to one of the religious denominations that have signed an agreement with the Italian state, or to the state itself. The choice involves no additional cost, because it is a portion of taxes already paid. Simply sign in the box corresponding to the Catholic Church.
Unfortunately, many taxpayers still do not sign: over 25 million people leave the choice blank. This means their share is distributed proportionally between the state and the denominations that received the most signatures. Signing, however, ensures that the funds go directly to the chosen community.
Projects That Change Lives
The 8xmille funds have financed thousands of projects in Italy and around the world. Here are some concrete examples:
- In Italy, soup kitchens for the poor and shelters for the homeless run by parishes and dioceses.
- In developing countries, wells for drinking water, schools, and health centers.
- Emergency programs in areas affected by natural disasters.
- Support for elderly or sick priests who have dedicated their lives to service.
Each signature is a seed of hope. By signing, you not only fulfill a tax formality, but you become an active part of a chain of good that transforms faith into concrete help. Will you sign this year?
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