Homeschool Funding in Tennessee
Tennessee does not currently offer state homeschool funding. Learn about federal programs and proposed legislation.
Complete Tennessee Funding Guide
Tennessee Education Savings Account (ESA) Program
Tennessee has an ESA program, but it is limited in scope and does not apply to homeschoolers. The program is available only to students in Hamilton County (Chattanooga), Shelby County (Memphis), and Metro Nashville Public Schools, or an Achievement School District. Estimated ESA amounts for 2025-2026 range from $9,772 to $9,800, but recipients must attend an approved private school -- not homeschool.
Tennessee Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS)
The Education Freedom Scholarship program provides scholarships of approximately $7,295 for the 2025-2026 school year, with 20,000 total scholarships available. However, EFS funds cannot be used for homeschool expenses and students must not be enrolled in a home school or church-related school to be eligible.
No State Homeschool Tax Credit
Tennessee does not have a state income tax on wages (only on investment income via the Hall Tax, which was fully repealed in 2021), so there is no state income tax credit available for homeschool expenses.
Federal Programs
- Coverdell ESAs: Save up to $2,000 per year per child with tax-free growth and withdrawals for educational expenses.
- 529 Plans: Tennessee's TNStars 529 plan allows tax-free growth. As of 2026, up to $20,000 in annual K-12 withdrawals are allowed under federal law.
- Educational Choice for Children Act (2025): Federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations to scholarship-granting organizations. Tennessee families can benefit if the state opts in to the program.
Free and Low-Cost Resources
Tennessee public libraries offer extensive free resources including digital lending and educational programs. The Tennessee Department of Education publishes curriculum standards online. Many homeschool co-ops across the state offer affordable group classes, and free online resources like Khan Academy, CK-12, and Easy Peasy are available to all families.
Federal Programs (All States)
529 Education Savings Plan
$20,000/year (K-12 distributions)Tax-advantaged savings accounts that can be used for K-12 tuition and homeschool expenses including curriculum, tutoring, and educational supplies.
Coverdell Education Savings Account
$2,000/year contribution limitTax-free savings for qualified education expenses including books, supplies, equipment, and tutoring for K-12 students.
Education Freedom Tax Credit
Up to $1,700/individualFederal tax credit for donations to scholarship-granting organizations (SGOs) that fund K-12 education including homeschool.
Disclaimer: Funding programs change frequently. Amounts, eligibility, and availability shown here are based on our latest research (2026-02). Always verify current details directly with the program administrator before applying.