Families Can Now Apply For Texas Education Freedom Accounts

Last year the Texas Legislature passed a $1 billion dollar program that was championed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Education Savings Accounts passed in the legislature and now, parents can begin applying for the money.

What Are Texas Education Freedom Accounts or ESA's?

Texas Education Freedom Accounts are also known as ESA's or Education Savings Accounts. It gives taxpayer money to families to pay for education expenses, at least some expenses. The accounts can cover the costs of private school tuition or the cost of homeschooling along with some other educational related items.

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Private school students are eligible to receive up to $10,474 dollars. Students in private school with disabilities could receive up to $30,000 and students in home school could receive up to $2000.

The program will be ready for the 2026-2027 school year.

What Children Are Eligible?

A child must be a Texas resident and a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted into the United States. They must be eligible to attend a public school in Texas. Children with disabilities and low to middle-income families.

When Can A Parent Apply?

You can apply for your child's ESA from February 4th through March 17.

Will All Texas School Children Get ESA's?

No. There are over 5.5 million Texas school children. ESA's will serve about 80,000 to 100,000 students.

What Documents Will Parents Need?

According to DallasNews.com, parents should be ready to submit many documents when applying for ESA's.

 Applicants must present a social security number for the child, a social security number or individual taxpayer identification numbers for the parent, an income tax return for 2024 or 2025 and a Texas driver’s license number or state ID number.

Parents without a driver’s license or state ID may present another document to establish their residency, like a utility bill or lease or mortgage paperwork. If the child’s social security number can’t be verified, parents can present other documents, including a birth certificate, certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship.

Parents of students with disabilities should also be ready to submit their child’s individualized education program, or IEP, evaluation records or a disability certification form signed by one or more licensed professionals.

Hundreds of private schools across Texas are participating in the ESA program. You can view a map here.