How to Maximise Your ESA Funds – Top Tips for Parents (US)

Are you a parent in the United States looking to make the most of your Education Savings Account (ESA) funds? These state funding programs can be a game-changer for your family’s education, enabling you to customise your children's learning journey. But knowing how to use ESA funds wisely – and make every dollar count – takes some planning.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the ESA programs available in each state, what the funds can be used for and important things to consider before making any purchases.

Whether you’re homeschooling or considering supplemental educational programs, you’ll discover practical tips to maximise your ESA funds and create an exceptional learning experience for your kids.

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1. Understand your state's ESA program

Currently, 18 states offer ESA programs and each state runs its program differently, with unique rules and opportunities. Before spending any money, take time to learn exactly how your state's program works.

Key things to understand:

• Eligibility requirements: Who qualifies for ESA funds in your state?

• Funding amounts: How much money will you receive and when?

• Deadlines: When do you need to apply and when do the funds need to be used?

• Approved expenses: What can you legally use the money for?

• Reporting requirements: What documentation do you need to provide?

Check your state education department's ESA website for specific details:

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2. Know what counts as a Qualified Expense

ESA funds can typically be used for a range of educational expenses, but the specifics vary by state.

Generally approved expenses include:

• Curriculum materials

• Online learning programs

• Private school tuition

• Tutoring services

• Educational therapy

• Standardised testing fees

• College entrance exam fees.

Technology and electronics

Many state ESAs will cover technology purchases, provided they're needed for educational purposes.

There could also be limits on how much you can spend on these items. Some states limit technology spending to a percentage of your total ESA funds (often around 10-15%).

Make sure to check your state program’s guidelines to confirm before making any purchases.

If you’re planning to homeschool for the first time, you might need to invest in technology to set up your home learning space. For example, equipment such as laptops, tablets, educational software and assistive technology.

Be sure to factor in these purchases when planning your budget.

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3. Prioritise your family's educational needs

Every family has different educational priorities. Before spending any ESA funds, assess what your children need most.

Consider these factors:

• Number of children: How many children are you looking to use ESA funds for?

• Special learning needs: Do any of your children need specialised services or resources?

• Learning style: Do your children have learning preferences or learn better with certain types of materials?

• Academic strengths and weaknesses: Which subjects need the most attention?

ESA funds are generally allocated on a per-child basis. However, you might be able to use your allocation more effectively by considering if any resources you plan to purchase can be shared among your children.

Building a tailored homeschool curriculum that meets your child’s unique needs is one of the many advantages of home education. In states where ESA funds can be used for homeschooling, this is now an affordable option for more parents.

If you’re new to homeschooling and looking for guidance, check out our article on how to choose the best homeschool curriculum.

For children with special needs, look for programs specifically designed to support various learning differences.

For example, children with dyslexia or autism often benefit from structured, multi-sensory learning programs that provide consistent practice and immediate feedback.

Online reading programs like Reading Eggs can be beneficial for children with learning differences.

The Reading Eggs learning environment is structured, predictable and highly-visual, meeting the needs of children with autism.

Specialised learning materials with dyslexia-friendly fonts, off-white backgrounds and simplified layouts help children with dyslexia overcome reading challenges.

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4. Choose approved vendors to simplify the process

Using ESA-approved Education Service Providers (ESPs) makes the payment process much easier.

These ESPs have already been vetted by your state's program and typically have streamlined payment systems in place.

In many cases, you can avoid the reimbursement process altogether and pay directly through platforms like ClassWallet, which connect to your ESA funds.

Reading Eggs (Blake eLearning) is now an ESA-approved vendor in several states, including:

• Arizona (Empowerment Scholarship Account)

• New Hampshire (Education Freedom Accounts)

• Arkansas (Children's Educational Freedom Account)

• Texas (Parent-Directed Special Education Services)

• Wyoming (Steamboat Legacy Scholarship Act)

• Florida (Step Up For Students).

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5. Request new vendors if yours isn't listed

Don't see your preferred educational provider on the approved vendor list? You can often request to add them!

Here's how to request a new vendor:

• Contact your state's ESA program administrator

• Ask about the process for adding new vendors

• Get the necessary forms for vendor applications

• Reach out to the company and ask if they're willing to become an approved vendor

• Follow up regularly on the application status.

Many educational companies are eager to work with ESA families but may not know about the opportunity. By initiating the process, you help both the vendor and other ESA families.

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6. Embrace online learning opportunities

Online learning programs offer exceptional value for ESA funds. They're generally more affordable than in-person options and provide flexibility for your family.

Benefits of online learning with ESA funds:

• Cost-effective: Many online programs cost less than traditional classes

• Flexibility: Your child can learn anytime, anywhere, at their own pace

• Multiple children: Many programs allow access for multiple children under one subscription

• Automated teaching: Reduces parent workload with guided lessons

• Progress tracking: See exactly what your child has learned and where they need help.

Online learning programs like Reading Eggs offer exceptional value for money and can help you stretch your ESA funds. Both monthly and annual subscription options are available.

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7. Plan ahead and set a budget for each subject

Careful budgeting helps your ESA funds last throughout the school year. Create a plan that covers all necessary subjects while prioritising your children's specific needs.

Sample budget breakdown:

• Core curriculum: 40-50% (reading, maths, science, social studies)

• Supplemental materials: 20-25% (workbooks, manipulatives, educational games)

• Technology: 10-15% (educational software, necessary devices)

• Specialised services: 10-20% (tutoring, therapy, enrichment)

• Testing and assessment: 5-10% (standardised tests, evaluations).

When looking for curriculum materials, consider programs that can be used by multiple children in your family.

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8. Don't forget electives and enrichment activities

While core academic subjects are important, don't overlook the value of electives and enrichment activities. These can help develop well-rounded students and spark lifelong passions.

Popular enrichment options covered by many ESA programs:

• Music lessons

• Art classes

• Physical education and sports

• Foreign language instruction

• Coding and technology classes

• Field trips to museums and historical sites.

Check your state's guidelines, as some have specific rules about enrichment activities. Many states require that these activities have clear educational goals and outcomes.

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9. Budget for testing and academic evaluations

Many ESA programs require regular academic assessments. Even if not required, testing can help you track progress and identify areas needing attention.

Common testing options:

• Standardised achievement tests

• Portfolio assessments

• Third-party evaluations

• Online assessment tools.

If formal assessments are required in your state, be sure to include these costs in your annual ESA budget. Consider the types of tests required and whether there will be other incidental costs incurred.

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10. Buy books and learning materials strategically

Books and learning materials can quickly consume your ESA budget if not purchased thoughtfully.

Consider these strategies:

• Buy used when possible: Many curriculum materials retain their value

• Choose non-consumable resources: Materials that can be reused by multiple children

• Look for bundled resources: Sets that cover multiple grade levels or subjects

• Consider digital alternatives: E-books and online libraries

• Invest in quality reference materials: Resources your family will use for years.

Digital resources like the Reading Eggs online library can save you significant money. With over 4,000 e-books (both fiction and nonfiction), you'll potentially need to purchase fewer physical reference books and reading materials.

The digital library is included with Reading Eggs subscriptions and can be accessed by all children on your account.

Many ESA programs also allow for teacher and parent resources, such as curriculum guides and teaching materials. Check if these supporting resources are approved expenses in your state.

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11. Familiarise yourself with the reimbursement process

Each state handles ESA payments differently. Some use direct payment systems, while others require you to pay first and request reimbursement.

Common payment methods:

• Debit cards: Pre-loaded cards specifically for ESA purchases

• Direct vendor payments: The ESA program pays approved vendors directly

• Reimbursement: You pay upfront and submit receipts for repayment

• Third-party platforms: Systems like ClassWallet that manage transactions.

If your state uses a reimbursement model, understand exactly what documentation is required.

Typically, you'll need:

• Original receipts

• Proof of payment

• Description of educational purpose

• Completed reimbursement forms.

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12. Keep robust records

Good record-keeping is essential for ESA compliance and can save hours of stress at reporting time.

Track these important details:

• Expenses: Keep all receipts and payment confirmations

• Educational activities: Log what your child is learning

• Progress: Document academic growth and milestones

• Hours spent: Some states require tracking educational hours

• Communication: Save emails with ESA administrators.

These reports can serve as valuable documentation for your ESA requirements while helping you understand your child's strengths and weaknesses.

The built-in progress reports in Reading Eggs can help automate your ESA compliance and reporting.

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13. Use ClassWallet (or alternatives) to stay organised

Some states now use ClassWallet to manage ESA funds. This platform simplifies the process of paying for approved educational expenses.

ClassWallet benefits:

• Direct payment to approved vendors

• Digital receipt storage

• Spending categorisation

• Easy reporting for ESA requirements

• Reduced paperwork burden.

If your state offers ClassWallet, take advantage of the training resources to understand how to use it effectively. Reading Eggs accepts ClassWallet payments in states like Arizona and Texas, making the purchase process seamless.

Not all states use ClassWallet, so check what system your state employs. Alternative platforms include MyScholarShop (Florida) and Odyssey (Wyoming).

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14. Consider your family's best interests

While ESA programs provide wonderful opportunities, they also come with rules and requirements. Always prioritise what works best for your family's educational goals.

Some homeschoolers worry that accepting ESA funds might limit their freedom or lead to unwanted oversight. Consider these factors carefully when deciding whether to participate.

Remember that ESA funds can do more than just cover books and tuition – they can empower you to build a well-rounded, personalised curriculum tailored to your children's specific needs. The key is finding the right balance between program requirements and educational freedom.

Conclusion

Maximising your ESA funds requires planning, organisation and creativity, but the educational possibilities are worth the effort! By understanding your state's program, choosing resources wisely and keeping good records, you can create an exceptional learning experience for your children.

With careful management, your ESA funds can transform your children's education by providing exactly the resources they need to thrive!