What Is TEFA?

Texas Education Freedom Accounts (ESA Program)

Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) are a statewide Education Savings Account (ESA) program that allows eligible families to use state-funded dollars to support approved educational expenses for their children.

The TEFA program is administered by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and is designed to give families greater flexibility and choice in how they approach their child’s education.

Redeemer School has been officially cleared for TEFA participation and is enrolled in the program.

What Is a Texas Education Freedom Account?

A Texas Education Freedom Account allows eligible families to receive state funds that can be used for a range of approved educational expenses, including private school tuition and other educational services.

TEFA funds are intended to support families who are exploring options such as:

• Private school education

• Homeschooling

• Tutoring or supplemental instruction

• Educational therapies and services

Each family’s use of TEFA funds may look different depending on eligibility and educational needs.

Who May Be Eligible?

Under the finalized TEFA rules, a student must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident

• Be eligible to attend a Texas public school or public pre-K program

If applications exceed available funding, priority is given to students with disabilities and families with lower adjusted gross income, as defined by state guidelines.

Eligibility determinations are made by the state, not by individual schools.

TEFA Funding Amounts

Annual funding amounts may include:

• Up to $10,800 per year for students attending a private school

• Up to $30,000 per year for students with disabilities

• Up to $2,000 per year for homeschooling families

Funding amounts are subject to program rules and final determination by the state.

What Can TEFA Funds Be Used For?

Approved educational expenses may include:

• Tuition and school-related fees

• Textbooks and curriculum materials

• Tutoring and instructional services

• Educational therapies

• Technology (up to 10% of total funds)

• Transportation and other state-approved expenses

The state maintains the official list of eligible expenses.

Application Timeline

TEFA applications open February 4, 2026.

Families will apply through a state-managed online parent portal.

If demand exceeds available funding, placement will be determined through a lottery system, with priority categories applied.

Information for Families of Students with Special Needs

Families of students with special needs are encouraged to ensure that appropriate documentation is in place prior to applying.

A current Individualized Education Program (IEP) may be required for eligibility and prioritization under TEFA guidelines.

 “How to Get an IEP” resource

Official TEFA Resources

The Texas Comptroller has launched a dedicated TEFA website with official program rules, updates, and application information:  educationfreedom.texas.gov

Families are encouraged to rely on this site for the most up-to-date state guidance.

TEFA and Redeemer School

Redeemer School participates in the TEFA program and will continue to share updates as the application window approaches.

For families seeking school-based tuition assistance, Redeemer School requires that TEFA eligibility be pursued prior to applying for financial aid.

Learn more about Redeemer’s Tuition Assistance process.

Questions?

We know many Redeemer families — and families in our Austin community — have important school decisions to make. Redeemer will continue sharing updates from reliable sources such as the Texas Private Schools Association (TPSA) and the Office of the Texas Comptroller as more information becomes available.

Texas Comptroller ESA/TEFA Updates

Texas Private Schools Association (TPSA): School Choice Updates 

If you have questions about Redeemer School or Preschool in relation to TEFA, please contact our team at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Redeemer an approved ESA school?
Yes. 

How much financial support could my family receive?
Current information suggests around $10,800 per student annually. The final amount will be determined by the state.

When will funds be available?
The program timeline is still being finalized. We will share updates as soon as the state confirms.