School Launch

School Launch · Homeschool help

Money and rules for homeschooling, state by state

Where to find government money you may be able to use for homeschooling, and what your state asks of you. Short notes, lots of official links. Every state lists when we last checked it.

Federal money: 529s, Coverdells and the new scholarship credit

529 plans after the 2025 tax law

The July 2025 tax law (Pub. L. 119-21) widened what a 529 plan can pay for in grades K–12. For withdrawals after July 4, 2025, qualified K–12 expenses include:

  • tuition
  • curriculum and curricular materials
  • books and other instructional materials
  • online educational materials
  • tutoring or classes outside the home, if the teacher is not related to the student and is a licensed teacher, has taught at an eligible school, or is a subject-matter expert
  • fees for nationally norm-referenced tests, AP exams and college admission exams
  • dual enrollment fees
  • educational therapies for students with disabilities

The yearly K–12 limit is $10,000 per student through 2025 and $20,000 starting in 2026.

What about homeschools? The law ties these expenses to enrollment at “an elementary or secondary public, private, or religious school.” It does not mention homeschools. Whether your costs qualify may depend on whether your state treats your homeschool as a private school. As of Oct 16, 2026 we found no IRS guidance written specifically for homeschools. Your state may also tax K–12 withdrawals differently. Ask your plan and a tax professional before you withdraw.

26 U.S.C. §529 (text) · IRS Tax Topic 313: qualified tuition programs

Coverdell education savings accounts

You can contribute up to $2,000 a year per child, until the child turns 18. The contribution limit phases out at modified AGI of $95,000–$110,000 ($190,000–$220,000 for joint filers). Withdrawals for K–12 expenses at a “public, private, or religious school” are tax-free, and the law says what counts as a school is “determined under State law.” That means homeschool use depends on your state, so confirm with a tax professional.

26 U.S.C. §530 (text) · IRS Publication 970

Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (starts Jan 1, 2027)

Starting Jan 1, 2027, taxpayers can claim a federal credit of up to $1,700 for cash gifts to scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) in states that opt in. The SGOs give K–12 scholarships to students from households at or below 300% of area median income who are eligible to attend public school.

On the IRS list (page updated Sep 16, 2026), 30 states have opted in for 2027: AL, AK, AR, CO, FL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, ND, NC, OH, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WY. The IRS published temporary rules on Oct 2, 2026, and states can finish opting in by sending their SGO lists by Feb 15, 2027.

Unverified: whether these scholarships can pay homeschool costs. The federal rules don't address homeschooling, so it will depend on your state and the SGO.

IRS: Federal Scholarship Tax Credit · Federal Register: temporary regulations (Oct 2, 2026) · 26 U.S.C. §25F

Proposed, not law: in October 2026 a federal proposal was announced to make up to $10,000 a year per child in homeschool costs tax-free. Check back here and with the IRS for updates.

How to start homeschooling in your state

  1. Read your state's law. Open your state below, then the official link and the HSLDA page.
  2. Pick your legal option. Some states offer several, such as a homeschool statute, a private or umbrella school, or a tutor.
  3. File any required notice, on time. If you are leaving a public school, withdraw in writing so your child isn't marked truant.
  4. Check money before you file. Some ESAs require you not to file as a homeschooler, or to end homeschool status, and some have spring deadlines.
  5. Set up records: attendance, subjects, work samples and any tests your state requires. Keep copies of everything you file.
  6. Plan for testing or evaluations if your state requires them.
  7. Find your people: your state association, a local co-op, and our courses.
  8. Save receipts. Tax credits, deductions and ESAs all need documentation.

National resources

Your state

Each state lists its law in brief, official links, a support group, any money or programs, and our sources. Tags:

Homeschoolers can use registered homeschoolers can use it and stay homeschoolers · Must leave homeschool status can pay for learning at home, but your child is no longer a legal homeschooler · Public-school option your child enrolls in a public program · Homeschool use unclear confirm with the program

Alabama Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (must attend until 17)
Notice
Homeschool through a church school (enroll; church school files a one-time enrollment form with the local superintendent), as a private school, or with a certified private tutor.
Testing
No state testing requirement.
Records
Church schools keep attendance; families keep enrollment records.
Other
Church and private schools set their own rules on days, subjects and teacher qualifications.

Official: ALSDE homeschool information · Code of Alabama §16-28-1

Support: Homeschool Alabama · HSLDA Alabama law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useCHOOSE Act Education Savings Account (ESA). $2,000 per home-education student, capped at $4,000 per family. The 2026–27 window closed Mar 31, 2026. For 2027–28, the state says applications open in January 2027 with no income limit.

Public school classes and activities

No statewide right to public school classes. AHSAA rules allow some non-traditional students to play sports, with conditions.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Alaska Public-school option

The law in brief

Ages
7–15 (until 16)
Notice
Under the homeschool statute (AS 14.30.010(b)(12)), no notice is required. Other options: certified tutor, school-board approval, or a private/religious school.
Testing
None under the homeschool statute. Private/religious school option: tests in grades 4, 6 and 8.
Records
None under the homeschool statute.
Other
Many families enroll in public correspondence (home-based) programs instead. Those students are public-school students.

Official: Alaska DEED school options · Correspondence program directory

Support: Alaska Private & Home Educators Association (APHEA) · HSLDA Alaska law page

Money and programs

  • Public-school optionPublic correspondence school allotments (Public-school program). District and charter correspondence programs give families an instructional allotment for home-based learning. The child is enrolled in public school, not independently homeschooling. Amounts and rules vary by program. On Mar 28, 2025 the Alaska Supreme Court (State v. Alexander) reversed a lower court ruling that had struck down the allotment statutes. Whether allotments can be used for private-school classes went back to the lower court and was still being litigated. partially verified

Public school classes and activities

Grades 9–12 students in some alternative programs can take part in interscholastic activities, with conditions. Classes are up to the district.

To confirm: Alaska allotment litigation (private-tuition question) is still pending. Recheck before publishing.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Arizona Must leave homeschool status

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
File a one-time affidavit of intent with the county school superintendent within 30 days of starting, with a copy of the birth certificate. Notify the county within 30 days of stopping.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Teach reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science.

Official: A.R.S. §15-802 (homeschool law) · A.R.S. §15-2402 (ESA)

Support: Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) · HSLDA Arizona law page

Money and programs

  • Must leave homeschool statusEmpowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) (ESA). Open to all Arizona K–12 residents. You can still teach at home with ESA funds, but an ESA student is not a legal homeschooler: the ESA contract replaces the homeschool affidavit, and you withdraw the affidavit when you join. Award amounts depend on grade and district.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can try out for interscholastic activities at their public school, subject to rules (A.R.S. §15-802.01).

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Arkansas Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
5–17
Notice
File a notice of intent with the superintendent by Aug 15 each year (or 5 days before withdrawing mid-year, or within 30 days of moving in). Notice is usually filed online through the Arkansas DESE homeschool system.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep proof that you filed your notice.

Official: Arkansas DESE home schools

Support: The Education Alliance (Arkansas) · HSLDA Arkansas law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useEducation Freedom Account (EFA) (ESA). Open to all K–12 students for 2026–27, including homeschoolers. Homeschool applicants must have a current homeschool notice of intent on file, which DESE verifies. Third-party sources report the 2026–27 amount as about $7,208. Confirm the amount with DESE. verified (amount unverified)

Public school classes and activities

Districts must let homeschoolers join interscholastic activities (Ark. Code §6-15-509). Districts may allow academic classes.

To confirm: Arkansas EFA 2026–27 dollar amount (~$7,208) is from secondary sources.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

California Public-school option

The law in brief

Ages
6–18
Notice
Choose one: file a Private School Affidavit (Oct 1–15 each year) to run your own home-based private school; enroll in a private school satellite program (PSP); use a credentialed tutor; or enroll in a public charter or independent-study program (that makes your child a public-school student).
Testing
No state testing for private home-based schools.
Records
Private schools keep an attendance register, courses of study, and a list of instructors with their addresses and qualifications.

Official: California Department of Education: Schooling at Home

Support: Christian Home Educators Association of California (CHEA) · HSLDA California law page

Money and programs

  • Public-school optionPublic charter / independent-study programs (Public-school program). Many charter schools offer home-based independent study, and some provide instructional funds. The child is a public-school student under public-school rules (state testing, approved materials), not a private homeschooler.

Public school classes and activities

No statewide access right. CIF rules generally keep private homeschool students off public-school teams.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Colorado Public-school option

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17)
Notice
Homeschool statute: file a notice of intent with any Colorado school district 14 days before starting and every year after. Other options: an umbrella private school, or a certified teacher.
Testing
Test or evaluate in grades 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11. Send results to the district that got your notice, or to an independent/parochial school.
Records
Keep attendance, test or evaluation results, and immunization records.
Other
172 days a year, averaging 4 hours a day. Required subjects.

Official: Colorado Department of Education: homeschool

Support: Christian Home Educators of Colorado (CHEC) · HSLDA Colorado law page

Money and programs

  • Public-school optionPart-time public school enrollment (Public-school option). Districts may enroll homeschoolers part-time and count them for funding. Ask your district. partially verified

Public school classes and activities

Statutory right to join public-school activities. Part-time classes are generally available.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Connecticut

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
No notice is required now. A 2026 law (HB 5468, signed May 26, 2026) adds background checks for families withdrawing from public school to homeschool (effective July 1, 2027) and a required notice of intent (effective July 1, 2028).
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement. The CSDE guidelines suggest an annual portfolio review, but it is voluntary.
Other
Teach the required subjects (C.G.S. §10-184).

Official: CT State Dept. of Education: homeschooling

Support: TEACH CT · HSLDA Connecticut law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

To confirm: Connecticut HB 5468 rules take effect 2027–2028. Watch for CSDE implementation guidance.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Delaware

The law in brief

Ages
5–15 (until 16)
Notice
Register as a single-family or multi-family homeschool. File an enrollment report with the Delaware DOE by Sept 30 and an attendance report by July 31.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Report enrollment and annual attendance (180 days).

Official: Delaware DOE: homeschools & private schools

Support: Tri-State Homeschool Network · HSLDA Delaware law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

District of Columbia

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
Notify OSSE 15 days before starting, then by Aug 15 each year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep a portfolio of materials and student work for one year. OSSE may review it up to twice a year.
Other
Teach language arts, math, science, social studies, art, music, health and PE. Parent needs a high school diploma or equivalent (a waiver is possible).

Official: OSSE: homeschooling in DC

Support: No statewide association verified. See HSLDA for local groups. · HSLDA District of Columbia law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Up to the school. Homeschoolers can take AP tests at DCPS schools.

To confirm: No DC-specific homeschool association could be verified (old domains are defunct). Use HSLDA or a regional group.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Florida Homeschoolers can useMust leave homeschool status

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
Home education program: file a one-time notice of intent with the county superintendent within 30 days of starting, and a notice of termination when you stop. Other options: a private (umbrella) school or a qualified private tutor.
Testing
Annual evaluation by one of five methods (certified-teacher review, standardized test, state test, psychologist evaluation, or another agreed method), filed with the district.
Records
Keep a portfolio (a log of activities and samples of work) for 2 years. The superintendent may inspect it with 15 days' notice.

Official: FLDOE home education · FLDOE PEP FAQs

Support: Florida Parent-Educators Association (FPEA) · HSLDA Florida law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useFamily Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) (ESA). For students with qualifying disabilities or diagnoses. Can be used by home education students. A student cannot hold FES-UA and PEP at the same time.
  • Must leave homeschool statusPersonalized Education Program (PEP) (ESA). An ESA for students not enrolled full-time in public or private school. It is separate from the district home education program: once PEP is confirmed, you file a notice of terminating home education. Requires a student learning plan and an annual norm-referenced test. Capped at 140,000 students for 2026–27; applications closed Apr 30, 2026.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join interscholastic activities at their public school (F.S. §1006.15).

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Georgia Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
Submit a declaration of intent online to GaDOE within 30 days of starting, then by Sept 1 each year.
Testing
Standardized test every 3 years, starting at the end of grade 3. Keep the results; you don't submit them.
Records
Write an annual progress report and keep it for 3 years. Keep attendance.
Other
180 days of 4½ hours. Required subjects. The teaching parent needs a high school diploma or GED.

Official: GaDOE home study · GaDOE declaration of intent portal

Support: Georgia Home Education Association (GHEA) · HSLDA Georgia law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useGeorgia Promise Scholarship (ESA). Up to $6,500 a year. Home study is allowed (not for tuition). Eligibility is narrow: the student must have attended a Georgia public school for two semesters (or be entering kindergarten) and be zoned to a school on the state's lowest-performing 25% list. For fall enrollment, income is used for priority (≤400% of the federal poverty level) when funds are limited.

Public school classes and activities

The Dexter Mosely Act lets homeschoolers join extracurriculars if they take one qualifying course per semester (O.C.G.A. §20-2-319.6).

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Hawaii

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
File a notice of intent (Form 4140 or a letter) with the principal of the public school your child would attend, before starting. Notify the principal when you stop.
Testing
Standardized tests in grades 3, 5, 8 and 10, and an annual progress report to the principal.
Records
Keep a record of your planned curriculum.

Official: Hawaii DOE: homeschool

Support: Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaiʻi · HSLDA Hawaii law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Idaho Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
7–16
Notice
No notice is required.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Teach subjects commonly taught in Idaho public schools.

Official: Idaho Code §33-202

Support: Homeschool Idaho · HSLDA Idaho law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useParental Choice Tax Credit (Refundable tax credit). Up to $5,000 per eligible student ($7,500 with a qualifying disability) for qualifying nonpublic education expenses, including homeschool expenses. Advance payments are available. Funding is capped. The 2026 round filled, and the next application period is Jan 15–Mar 15, 2027. Lower-income families get priority (≤300% FPL for advance payments).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can dual-enroll in public school classes and activities (Idaho Code §33-203).

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Illinois Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17)
Notice
Homeschools operate as private schools. No notice or registration is required (registering with ISBE is voluntary).
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Teach in English the branches taught in public schools.

Official: ISBE: homeschool

Support: Illinois Christian Home Educators (ICHE) · HSLDA Illinois law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useK-12 Education Expense Credit (Tax credit). Covers 25% of qualified expenses over $250, up to $750 per family. Home schools count as qualifying schools. There are income limits. Check Publication 112 for which homeschool costs qualify.

Public school classes and activities

Districts must allow part-time classes when space permits. Request by May 1 for the next year.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Indiana Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
7–17 (until 18)
Notice
Homeschools operate as non-accredited private schools. No notice is required unless the state asks. Enrollment reporting to IDOE is voluntary.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep attendance records.
Other
Instruction equivalent to public schools, for the same number of days (180).

Official: IDOE homeschool information

Support: Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE) · HSLDA Indiana law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Iowa Homeschoolers can usePublic-school option

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
Several options. Independent Private Instruction (IPI) and Opt-Out: no forms. Competent Private Instruction with reporting: file a form with the district (assessment applies). Other options use a supervising teacher or the district's Home School Assistance Program (HSAP). Iowa changed some rules in 2026, so check the Department's current guidance.
Testing
Depends on the option: none under IPI or Opt-Out. Annual assessment under some Competent Private Instruction options.
Records
Varies by option.
Other
IPI: teach math, reading/language arts, science and social studies.

Official: Iowa Dept. of Education: homeschooling

Support: Homeschool Iowa · HSLDA Iowa law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useTuition and Textbook Credit (K-12) (Tax credit). 25% of the first $2,000 per dependent (max $500). Includes textbooks and materials for private instruction (homeschool). Religious materials don't qualify.
  • Not for homeschoolersStudents First ESA (ESA). For students enrolled in an accredited private school. Homeschoolers don't qualify. partially verified
  • Public-school optionHome School Assistance Program / dual enrollment (Public-school option). Districts offer HSAPs and dual enrollment. Not available under the IPI or Opt-Out options.

Public school classes and activities

Dual enrollment (classes and activities) is available except under IPI and Opt-Out.

To confirm: Iowa had 2026 homeschool legislation; confirm option details against the Department's 2026 technical assistance.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Kansas

The law in brief

Ages
7–17 (until 18)
Notice
Register your non-accredited private school's name and address with the Kansas State Department of Education (once).
Testing
No state testing (instruction must be evaluated periodically).
Records
No specific records are required by statute.
Other
Instruction by a competent teacher for about as many days as public schools.

Official: KSDE non-accredited private school registration

Support: Christian Home Educators Confederation of Kansas (CHECK) · HSLDA Kansas law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can enroll part-time in public school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Kentucky

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Notify the local board of education within the first two weeks of each school year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep attendance and scholarship (report card) records.
Other
1,062 hours over at least 170 days. Required subjects.

Official: Kentucky DOE homeschool information packet (PDF)

Support: Homeschool Kentucky · HSLDA Kentucky law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

To confirm: Kentucky association: confirm Homeschool Kentucky is the statewide group you want to feature.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Louisiana Homeschoolers can useMust leave homeschool status

The law in brief

Ages
7–17 (until 18)
Notice
Option 1: apply for BESE-approved home study within 15 days of starting, then renew each year with evidence of progress. Option 2: register as a nonpublic school not seeking state approval.
Testing
Home study renewal needs evidence of progress (such as standardized test results or a certified teacher's statement).
Records
Keep records supporting your renewal.
Other
180 days a year, with instruction at least equal to public school.

Official: Louisiana DOE: home study

Support: Homeschool Louisiana · HSLDA Louisiana law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useSchool Expense Deduction (Tax deduction). Deduct 50% of textbooks and curricula for BESE-approved home study, up to $6,000 per child.
  • Must leave homeschool statusLA GATOR Scholarship (ESA) (ESA). Can pay for home-based education through approved providers, but participants cannot be in a BESE-approved or registered home study program at the same time.

Public school classes and activities

Approved home study students can join athletics and extracurriculars at their zoned school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Maine

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17)
Notice
Home instruction: send a one-time notice of intent to the superintendent (and the DOE) within 10 days of starting. Then send an annual letter by Sept 1 that includes the year-end assessment.
Testing
Annual assessment: a standardized test, review by a certified teacher, a local advisory board, or another approved method.
Records
Keep assessment documentation.
Other
175 days. Required subjects.

Official: Maine DOE: home instruction

Support: Homeschoolers of Maine · HSLDA Maine law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can take classes and join activities at the public school, under school rules.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Maryland

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
Notify the local superintendent at least 15 days before starting. Then either keep a portfolio for district review (up to 3 times a year) or homeschool under a church-exempt or state-approved umbrella school.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep a portfolio of materials and work samples (portfolio option).
Other
Regular, thorough instruction in the required subjects.

Official: MSDE home instruction FAQs

Support: Maryland Association of Christian Home Educators (MACHE) · HSLDA Maryland law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Massachusetts

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
Get approval in advance from the local school committee or superintendent, usually by submitting an education plan each year.
Testing
Assessment as agreed with the district (a standardized test, progress report, or other method).
Records
As agreed with the district.
Other
Approval standards come from case law (Care and Protection of Charles; Brunelle).

Official: M.G.L. c.76 §1

Support: Massachusetts Homeschool Organization of Parent Educators (MassHOPE) · HSLDA Massachusetts law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district. MIAA lets schools decide whether to allow homeschoolers on teams.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Michigan

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Under the homeschool statute: no notice. You can also operate as a nonpublic school, which has reporting requirements.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement under the homeschool option.
Other
Run an organized educational program covering the required subjects.

Official: Michigan DOE: nonpublic & home schools

Support: Michigan Christian Homeschool Network (MiCHN) · HSLDA Michigan law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Public schools must let homeschoolers take certain nonessential elective courses (shared time).

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Minnesota Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
7–17
Notice
Send a report to the superintendent by Oct 1 each year (or within 15 days of withdrawing from public school).
Testing
Annual nationally norm-referenced test. Scores at or below the 30th percentile trigger an evaluation for learning difficulties.
Records
Keep documentation of instruction and test results.
Other
Required subjects.

Official: MDE: nonpublic & home school · Minn. Stat. §120A.22

Support: Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators (MÂCHÉ) · HSLDA Minnesota law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useK-12 Education Subtraction and Credit (Tax subtraction / credit). Qualified homeschool expenses count. The credit has income limits, and homeschool instructional materials must not be primarily religious.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join public school extracurricular activities.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Mississippi

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17)
Notice
File a certificate of enrollment with the district attendance officer by Aug 15 each year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.

Official: Mississippi DOE: home school

Support: Mississippi Home Educators Association (MHEA) · HSLDA Mississippi law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Missouri Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
7–16 (until 17)
Notice
No notice is required (an optional declaration can be filed with the county recorder).
Testing
No state testing requirement.
Records
Until age 16, keep a plan book or diary, a portfolio of work samples, and a record of evaluations.
Other
1,000 hours a year (600 in core subjects, with 400 of those at home).

Official: RSMo §167.031

Support: MATCH (Missouri Association of Teaching Christian Homes) · HSLDA Missouri law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useMOScholars (ESA (tax-credit funded)). Homeschoolers can participate through an educational assistance organization if they qualify: an IEP, or income limits plus another criterion. The 2026–27 window ran Oct 1, 2025 – Apr 3, 2026.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join public school activities, with conditions.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Montana

The law in brief

Ages
7–15 (until 16)
Notice
Notify the county superintendent each school year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep attendance records and make them available to the county superintendent on request.
Other
720 hours (grades 1–3) or 1,080 hours (grades 4–12). Teach the basic instructional program.

Official: MCA §20-5-109

Support: Montana Coalition of Home Educators · HSLDA Montana law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join extracurriculars in their resident district.

To confirm: Montana: no homeschool-eligible program found. Confirm that the special-needs ESA and the tax-credit scholarship exclude homeschoolers.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Nebraska

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Exempt (home) school: file the election and assurances forms with the Nebraska DOE by July 15 each year (birth certificate the first year).
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep copies of filed forms.
Other
Required subjects and minimum hours.

Official: Nebraska DOE: exempt schools

Support: Nebraska Christian Home Educators Association (NCHEA) · HSLDA Nebraska law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Part-time enrollment is allowed. Activities require 5 credit hours a semester.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Nevada

The law in brief

Ages
7–17 (until 18)
Notice
File a one-time notice of intent with the district before starting (within 10 days of withdrawing, or 30 days of moving in).
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep an educational plan on file.
Other
Required subjects.

Official: Nevada DOE: homeschooling

Support: Nevada Homeschool Network · HSLDA Nevada law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can take classes and join activities at their zoned school, subject to requirements.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

New Hampshire Must leave homeschool statusHomeschool use unclear

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Under the law as updated in 2026, no notice is required unless you are withdrawing from public school or want access to public school programs.
Testing
None under current law (per HSLDA, Sept 2026).
Records
None required under current law.
Other
Confirm the details of the 2026 changes with the NH DOE.

Official: NH DOE: home education

Support: New Hampshire Homeschooling Coalition · HSLDA New Hampshire law page

Money and programs

  • Must leave homeschool statusEducation Freedom Account (EFA) (ESA). Can fund home-based learning, but an EFA student is not a home-education student under RSA 193-A, so you end home education status before using the EFA. 2026 legislation changed income rules, so check current eligibility. verified (2026 eligibility changes unverified)
  • Homeschool use unclearEducation Tax Credit scholarships (home education) (Tax-credit scholarship). EdChoice lists home-education expense reimbursement under this program. Confirm availability with the scholarship organization. unverified

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can take public school curricular and co-curricular programs.

To confirm: New Hampshire 2026 homeschool law change (HSLDA, Sept 2026) and EFA eligibility changes. Confirm with NH DOE.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

New Jersey

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
No notice is required.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Instruction must be 'equivalent' to public school.

Official: NJ DOE homeschool FAQ

Support: Education Network of Christian Homeschoolers of NJ (ENOCH) · HSLDA New Jersey law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

To confirm: New Jersey: enochnj.org blocks automated checks; confirm manually.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

New Mexico

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
Notify the NM Public Education Department (online) within 30 days of starting, then by Aug 1 each year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
Keep immunization records.
Other
Same days and hours as public school. The parent needs a high school diploma or equivalent.

Official: NM PED: home schooling

Support: Christian Association of Parent Educators of NM (CAPE-NM) · HSLDA New Mexico law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join up to three athletic activities at the public school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

New York

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17 in some districts)
Notice
File a notice of intent with the superintendent by July 1 each year, then an Individualized Home Instruction Plan (IHIP).
Testing
Annual assessment. Grades 1–3: test or narrative. Grades 4–8: test every other year (narrative in other years). Grades 9–12: test every year.
Records
Quarterly reports, an attendance record, and the annual assessment.
Other
Required subjects and hours. Parent qualifications are not specified.

Official: NYSED: home instruction

Support: Loving Education At Home (LEAH) · HSLDA New York law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

No statewide access right.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

North Carolina Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
7–15 (until 16)
Notice
File a one-time notice of intent with the Division of Non-Public Education (DNPE).
Testing
Annual nationally standardized test. Keep the scores for one year.
Records
Keep attendance and immunization records.
Other
Teach on a regular schedule for at least nine months a year. The parent needs a high school diploma or equivalent.

Official: NC DNPE: home schools

Support: North Carolinians for Home Education (NCHE) · HSLDA North Carolina law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useEducation Student Accounts (ESA+) (ESA). For students with disabilities. Full-time home school students can use the whole award for allowable expenses (not tuition). Apply from the first Monday in February to the first Monday in March; awards are by lottery while funds last.
  • Not for homeschoolersOpportunity Scholarship (Voucher). Private school tuition only. partially verified

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

North Dakota

The law in brief

Ages
7–15 (until 16)
Notice
File a statement of intent with the superintendent each year, 14 days before starting (or within 14 days of moving in).
Testing
Standardized test in grades 4, 6, 8 and 10, with some exemptions.
Records
Keep an annual record of courses and academic progress.
Other
At least 4 hours a day for 175 days. Parent qualifications apply (a high school diploma or monitoring).

Official: N.D.C.C. ch. 15.1-23

Support: North Dakota Home School Association (NDHSA) · HSLDA North Dakota law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join extracurriculars. Classes are up to the district.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Ohio Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Homeschool option: notify the superintendent each year by Aug 30 (or within 5 days of starting or moving in). You can also operate a non-chartered, non-tax-supported school instead.
Testing
None under the homeschool option (removed in 2023).
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement under the homeschool option. Keep the superintendent's excusal letter.
Other
Required subjects.

Official: Ohio DEW: home schooling

Support: Christian Home Educators of Ohio (CHEO) · HSLDA Ohio law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useHome school expense tax credit (Tax credit). Nonrefundable credit of up to $250 per qualifying student from tax year 2025 (before that, $250 per return). Keep the superintendent's excusal letter (ORC 5747.72).
  • Homeschoolers can useCollege Credit Plus (Dual enrollment). Homeschool students in grades 7–12 can take college courses. Funding is limited, so apply early. partially verified
  • Not for homeschoolersEdChoice Scholarship (Voucher). Private school only. per EdChoice

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join public school extracurricular activities.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Oklahoma Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
No notice is required.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Instruction for about 180 days a year.

Official: Oklahoma State Dept. of Education: home school

Support: Homeschool Oklahoma · HSLDA Oklahoma law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useParental Choice Tax Credit (homeschool) (Refundable tax credit). Up to $1,000 per homeschool student per year, claimed on the state return with Form 591-D. Homeschool credits have a statewide cap.

Public school classes and activities

No statewide access right.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Oregon

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Send a one-time notice to your education service district (ESD) within 10 days of starting or withdrawing.
Testing
Tests in grades 3, 5, 8 and 10 by Aug 15, given by a qualified neutral person. Keep the results unless the ESD asks for them.
Records
Keep test results.

Official: Oregon DOE: homeschool

Support: OCEANetwork · HSLDA Oregon law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join interscholastic activities if they meet test-score standards.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Pennsylvania

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Home education program: file a notarized affidavit with the superintendent before starting, then by Aug 1 each year. Other options: a private tutor, a diploma-granting extension program, or a religious day school.
Testing
Standardized tests in grades 3, 5 and 8.
Records
Keep a portfolio (log, work samples, test results). Submit an evaluator's certification to the superintendent by June 30.
Other
180 days or 900/990 hours. Required subjects. Supervisor needs a high school diploma.

Official: PDE: home education & private tutoring

Support: Christian Homeschool Association of Pennsylvania (CHAP) · HSLDA Pennsylvania law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join extracurricular activities and take up to ¼ day of classes.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Rhode Island

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Get approval from the local school committee.
Testing
As required by the local school committee.
Records
Keep an attendance register.
Other
Instruction for a comparable number of days. Required subjects.

Official: RIDE: home schooling · R.I. Gen. Laws §16-19-2

Support: Rhode Island Guild of Home Teachers (RIGHT) · HSLDA Rhode Island law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district. RIIL rules allow some homeschool athletics participation.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

South Carolina

The law in brief

Ages
5–16 (until 17)
Notice
Three options: (1) district board approval; (2) membership in SCAIHS; (3) membership in a homeschool association with at least 50 families.
Testing
Option 1 requires state testing. Options 2 and 3 have no state testing requirement.
Records
Keep a plan book, a portfolio, and a semiannual progress report (Options 2 and 3).
Other
180 days. Required subjects. The parent needs a high school diploma or GED.

Official: S.C. Code Title 59 Ch. 65

Support: SCAIHS · HSLDA South Carolina law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join interscholastic activities at their public school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

South Dakota

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Notify the state (online) or district within 30 days of starting.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Teach language arts and math.

Official: SD DOE: homeschooling

Support: Homeschool South Dakota · HSLDA South Dakota law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can enroll part-time, join activities, and borrow textbooks.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Tennessee

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
Options: an independent home school (notify the district each year; parent needs a high school diploma or GED; tests in grades 5, 7 and 9); a church-related umbrella school; or a Category III distance-learning school.
Testing
Independent home school: tests in grades 5, 7 and 9.
Records
Independent home school: submit attendance records each year.
Other
4 hours a day for 180 days (independent option).

Official: Tennessee DOE: home schooling

Support: Tennessee Home Education Association (THEA) · HSLDA Tennessee law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can play TSSAA athletics at their zoned school.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Texas Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–18 (until 19)
Notice
No notice is required.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Use a written curriculum covering reading, spelling, grammar, math and good citizenship.

Official: TEA: home schooling

Support: Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) · HSLDA Texas law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useTexas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) (ESA). Homeschool students get $2,000 a year. The 2026–27 window ran Feb 4–Mar 31, 2026, and there is a waitlist. Dates for 2027–28 not yet announced.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join UIL activities unless the district opts out.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Utah Homeschoolers can use

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
File a one-time notice of intent with the local school district (this replaced the old affidavit in 2025). The district issues an exemption certificate.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
Parents decide subjects and schedule.

Official: Utah Code §53G-6-204 · Utah Fits All application portal

Support: Utah Home Education Association (UHEA) · HSLDA Utah law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschoolers can useUtah Fits All Scholarship (ESA). Homeschool students get $4,000 (ages 5–11) or $6,000 (ages 12–18). A district court ruled the program unconstitutional in April 2025, and the appeal is pending at the Utah Supreme Court. The program is still operating. partially verified
  • Homeschoolers can useSpecial Needs Opportunity Scholarship (Tax-credit scholarship). Homeschool students with qualifying disabilities can participate (per EdChoice). per EdChoice

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can dual-enroll in public school classes and join activities.

To confirm: Utah Fits All: Utah Supreme Court appeal pending. Recheck status before publishing.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Vermont

The law in brief

Ages
6–15 (until 16)
Notice
Send a home study enrollment notice to the Agency of Education each year (online form available).
Testing
Annual assessment (several options), kept by the parent and sent with the next year's enrollment.
Records
Keep assessment records.
Other
Required subjects.

Official: Vermont AOE: home study

Support: Vermont Home Education Network (VHEN) · HSLDA Vermont law page

Money and programs

No state program found that independent homeschoolers can use (as of last check).

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can enroll part-time and join activities, subject to rules.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Virginia

The law in brief

Ages
5–17 (until 18)
Notice
Options: home instruction (notify the superintendent by Aug 15 each year with a qualification and a subject list); religious exemption; certified tutor; or private school.
Testing
Home instruction: submit evidence of progress (a test or evaluation) by Aug 1.
Records
Keep evidence of progress.
Other
Parent qualification options include a high school diploma.

Official: VDOE: home instruction · Va. Code §22.1-254.1

Support: Home Educators Association of Virginia (HEAV) · HSLDA Virginia law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Up to the district. Districts can get state funding for up to two classes.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Washington Public-school option

The law in brief

Ages
8–17 (until 18)
Notice
File a declaration of intent with the district superintendent by Sept 15 each year (or within 2 weeks of the semester start).
Testing
Annual standardized test or evaluation by a certified person. Keep the results; don't submit them.
Records
Keep test or evaluation results and immunization records.
Other
180 days or 1,000 hours. The parent must qualify (45 college credits, a course, supervision, or a superintendent ruling).

Official: OSPI: home-based instruction

Support: Washington Homeschool Organization (WHO) · HSLDA Washington law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can enroll part-time and get ancillary services. WIAA athletics are available.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

West Virginia Must leave homeschool status

The law in brief

Ages
6–16 (until 17)
Notice
Option 2 (notice): give the superintendent a notice of intent at or before the start of homeschooling. It stays effective until you move. Other options: county board approval, or a learning pod/microschool.
Testing
Annual assessment. Submit results to the superintendent in grades 3, 5, 8 and 11.
Records
Keep assessment results for 3 years.
Other
The parent needs a high school diploma or equivalent.

Official: W. Va. Code §18-8-1

Support: Christian Home Educators of West Virginia (CHEWV) · HSLDA West Virginia law page

Money and programs

  • Must leave homeschool statusHope Scholarship (ESA). Open to all students for 2026–27, including those switching from homeschool. Families file a Hope notice of intent; current homeschoolers file a termination of their homeschool exemption.

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join extracurriculars and athletics, with academic standards.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Wisconsin

The law in brief

Ages
6–17 (until 18)
Notice
File form PI-1206 online with DPI by Oct 15 each year.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
875 hours a year. Required subjects.

Official: Wisconsin DPI: home-based education

Support: Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association (WHPA) · HSLDA Wisconsin law page

Money and programs

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can take up to two public school classes per semester and join sports.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Wyoming Homeschool use unclear

The law in brief

Ages
7–15 (until 16)
Notice
No notice is required, but send written notice to the district if you are withdrawing from public school.
Testing
No testing requirement.
Records
No state recordkeeping requirement.
Other
A sequentially progressive curriculum in reading, writing, math, civics, history, literature and science.

Official: Wyoming DOE: homeschooling

Support: Homeschool Wyoming · HSLDA Wyoming law page

Money and programs

  • Homeschool use unclearSteamboat Legacy Scholarship (ESA) (ESA). $7,000 per student. The Wyoming Supreme Court lifted the injunction in May 2026 while litigation continues. The 2026–27 window closed Aug 6, 2026. Home-educated students are reported eligible. Confirm in the WDE handbook how participating affects homeschool status. partially verified

Public school classes and activities

Homeschoolers can join WHSAA activities, and postsecondary enrollment options are available.

To confirm: Wyoming ESA: homeschool-status interaction and litigation status. Confirm before publishing.

Last checked Oct 16, 2026. Sources:

Fine print

Not legal or tax advice. This page is general information to help you find official sources. Laws, amounts and deadlines change, sometimes mid-year. Read the official links, and talk to an attorney (such as HSLDA, if you're a member) or a tax professional about your situation.

Law summaries draw on each state's statutes and education department pages and on HSLDA's state summaries. Program details come from official program and tax agency sites where possible. Items marked like this still need confirming. School Launch is not affiliated with any program or organization listed.

Last checked: Oct 16, 2026. Spot a change? Tell us.