TEFA Frequently Asked Questions
TEFA Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers common questions about the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. For detailed information, each answer includes a link to the relevant guide.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
General
What is TEFA?
TEFA (Texas Education Freedom Accounts) is a state-funded education savings account program that allows eligible Texas families to use funds for approved education expenses—including private school tuition, tutoring, homeschool materials, and more. The program is administered by the Texas Comptroller and operated through Odyssey. Learn more: TEFA Overview
Who runs the TEFA program?
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts oversees the program. Odyssey is the certified educational assistance organization (CEAO) that administers applications and accounts under the Comptroller's oversight.
When does TEFA start?
The program begins in the 2026-27 school year. The application window runs February 4 – March 17, 2026. Initial funding is available July 1, 2026. Learn more: Application Guide
Eligibility
Who qualifies for TEFA?
Children must be U.S. citizens or lawfully present, eligible to attend a Texas public or charter school (or pre-K/K), and reside in Texas. The parent must be a Texas resident. There is no income limit that disqualifies a family, but prioritization applies if funding is limited. Learn more: Eligibility
Is there an income limit?
No. Income does not disqualify a family. However, if applications exceed available funding, lower-income households are prioritized first. Learn more: Eligibility
Are all eligible children guaranteed funding?
No. If eligible applicants exceed available funding, a lottery within priority tiers determines placement. Learn more: Eligibility
Funding
How much funding can my child receive?
It depends on the educational setting. Private school students receive $10,474 for 2026-27. Students with an IEP on file may receive up to $30,000. Homeschool students receive $2,000 annually. Learn more: TEFA Overview or Funding Calculator
What can TEFA funds be used for?
Approved expenses include tuition at participating private schools, textbooks, tutoring, educational therapies, computer hardware and software (up to 10% of the annual amount), transportation to approved providers, and more. Funds cannot be used to pay a family member. Learn more: TEFA Overview
Do funds roll over?
Yes. Unused funds at the end of the school year carry forward as long as the child remains in the program.
Application
When is the application deadline?
The application window runs February 4 – March 17, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on March 17. Learn more: Application Guide
Is TEFA first-come, first-served?
No. You can apply anytime during the window without affecting your chances. If funding is limited, a lottery within priority tiers determines placement. Learn more: Application Guide
Where do I apply?
Apply through the official Odyssey portal at educationfreedom.texas.gov. Do not use third-party sites.
Do I need to reapply every year?
No. Participants in good standing remain in the program automatically. Families confirm continuation each year. Learn more: Eligibility
Special Needs
Does a 504 plan qualify my child for the $30,000 amount?
No. Only children with an IEP on file with the Texas Education Agency are eligible for the increased amount. A child with only a 504 plan receives $10,474 if attending private school. Learn more: Special Needs Funding
What is the difference between IEP and 504 for TEFA?
An IEP qualifies a child for up to $30,000. A 504 plan does not. Only an IEP on file with TEA qualifies for the increased funding tier. Learn more: Special Needs Funding
Homeschool
How much does TEFA pay for homeschool students?
$2,000 per year for the 2026-27 school year. Learn more: Homeschool Funding
Can I use TEFA funds to pay myself for teaching my child?
No. Funds may not be used to pay a family member. Learn more: Homeschool Funding
Schools and Providers
How do I find participating schools?
Use the official TEFA School Finder to search for participating schools and education services by location. Not all private schools participate.
Can funds be used for online or out-of-state programs?
Yes, if the provider applies for approval and is accepted into the program.
Local Resources
For metro-specific information, see our city pages:
- TEFA in Austin
- TEFA in Houston
- TEFA in Dallas
- TEFA in San Antonio
- TEFA in Fort Worth
- TEFA in El Paso
- TEFA in Arlington
- TEFA in Plano
- TEFA in Lubbock
- TEFA in Corpus Christi
More Information
- TEFA Overview — Program overview, funding, approved expenses
- Eligibility — Full eligibility and prioritization rules
- Application Guide — Step-by-step application process
- Special Needs Funding — IEP, 504, and the $30,000 tier
- Homeschool Funding — $2,000 amount and approved uses
- Funding Calculator — Estimate your potential amount
- Official site: educationfreedom.texas.gov