Texas just made homeschooling even more affordable, and I want to make sure every Texas homeschool mom knows about it.

The Texas Education Savings Account program is one of the most significant school choice expansions in the country. It is brand new, it is big, and it could change your school year budget in a major way.

Here is what you need to know.

Texas ESA: The Big Picture

Texas launched its ESA program to give families more control over how their education tax dollars are spent. Rather than those funds going automatically to a public school, participating families receive an allocation they can use for approved private educational purposes, including homeschool curriculum.

This is a huge win for Texas homeschool families who have been paying taxes to fund an educational system they are not using.

How Much Can Texas Families Receive?

Texas’s program is one of the more generous in the country. Funding amounts are tied to the state’s per-pupil education funding, which means families can receive several thousand dollars per child.

For a family homeschooling two or three kids, that adds up to real money for curriculum, supplies, tutoring, and more.

Who Qualifies for the Texas ESA?

Eligibility requirements have evolved as the program launched. Generally, families who:

• Are Texas residents
• Have a child of school age who is not enrolled in a public school
• Can provide basic documentation of their homeschool program

…may qualify. Texas homeschool law is relatively flexible, and the state recognizes homeschool families as private schools under state law, which generally helps with eligibility.

How Does Texas Distribute the Funds?

Texas uses a digital payment platform called Odyssey to distribute ESA funds. Families receive access to an account where approved educational expenses can be paid.

Many vendors, including curriculum providers like A to Z for Moms Like Me, work through these approved platforms. Check our ESA-approved curriculum page for the most current information on purchasing our curriculum with Texas ESA funds.

What Can You Use Texas ESA Funds For?

The Texas program covers:

• Curriculum and instructional materials
• Tutoring services
• Online educational programs
• Standardized testing fees
• Educational therapies and services for students with special needs

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through the Texas Education Agency’s ESA portal. The process involves:

• Creating an account on the TEA portal
• Submitting basic student and family information
• Agreeing to program terms
• Waiting for approval and fund allocation

Because this is a newer program, We recommend checking the Texas Education Agency website directly for the most current application instructions and deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to withdraw from public school to use the Texas ESA?

If your child is currently enrolled in public school, you would typically need to withdraw them before participating in the ESA program. If you have always homeschooled, you are generally already eligible.

Can I use Texas ESA funds for curriculum I already purchased?

Generally, ESA funds are for prospective purchases, not reimbursement for things already bought before your account was approved. Always check current program rules.

Is the Texas ESA program permanent?

Programs can change with legislation, so it is always good to stay informed. Texas has shown strong political support for expanding school choice, which is a positive sign for the program’s future.

Texas Moms, This Is Your Moment

If you have been homeschooling on a tight budget, the Texas ESA program could be a genuine game changer. Do not wait to look into this.

We are here to help you make the most of it. Visit our ESA page to get started, or browse our full curriculum catalog to see what your funds could cover.