Homeschool Funding in Nebraska

Nebraska Opportunity Scholarships

Nebraska created the Opportunity Scholarship program through legislation in 2023–2024 (LB 753 and LB 1402). This program provides education funding through tax-credit scholarships. Donors receive a state tax credit for contributions to approved Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), and families can apply for scholarships to offset educational expenses. Check with Nebraska SGOs for current availability and eligibility requirements.

Federal Tax Credit Scholarship (Starting 2027)

Governor Pillen signed an executive order opting Nebraska into the federal tax credit scholarship program. Beginning January 1, 2027, taxpayers can donate up to $1,700 to qualifying scholarship-granting organizations and receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit. While this directly benefits donors, it expands the scholarship pool available to Nebraska homeschool families.

Federal Options

All Nebraska homeschool families can benefit from:

• Coverdell Education Savings Accounts: Save up to $2,000 per child per year with tax-free growth and qualified withdrawals for educational expenses
• 529 Plan (NEST): Nebraska's NEST 529 plan offers state tax deductions of up to $10,000 per year for contributions. While primarily designed for college savings, some homeschool expenses may qualify under federal rules allowing up to $10,000 per year for K-12 tuition.

No State ESA or Voucher Program

Nebraska does not currently offer a universal Education Savings Account (ESA) or voucher program for homeschool families. Financial assistance is limited to the scholarship programs described above and federal savings vehicles.