Last chance to sign up for a Texas Education Freedom Account!

There is still time: the deadline to apply for a Texas Education Freedom Account is now 11:59 pm on Tuesday, March 31. Parents eligible for funding for their children's private education can receive up to $10,474 per year; students with disabilities may qualify for up to $30,000 per year.
 
The Catholic schools in the diocese, in collaboration with the Office for Catholic Schools, hosted several information nights, and many schools held “Sign-up Night” events to help parents complete their applications. 
 
Overall, the process is simple — as one mother said, "so much easier than ordering something on Amazon.” Another parent was also very pleased with the easy, user-friendly portal: “All you need is your tax return form. Driver’s license number and SSN.”
 
Even if you haven’t signed up yet, it’s not too late since applicants don't need to gather many documents! Here are some FAQ as we approach March 31:

Is it first-come, first-served?
No, everyone has the same chance if they sign up before the deadline. Funding decisions are made after the window closes on March 31. You still have time to apply at esacc.org
 
What do I need to sign up? 
Not much – the Social Security Number (SSN) of the parent or the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number; the SSN for the child, and Form 1040 – U.S. Individual Income Tax Return for 2024 or 2025. To prove Texas residency, a Texas driver’s license or state ID number is required.
 
Who qualifies?
The student must be a U.S. citizen, legal resident, or otherwise eligible to attend public school in Texas. Priority is given to children from low-income families and those with special learning needs.
 
If I don't use all the funds in one year, will the money expire or roll over?
Unused funds roll over from year to year as long as the student stays in the program and until he or she graduates or finishes high school.
 
Is the money distributed to the school or to me?
Funds are deposited into a secure account managed by the state. Parents access the funds through the same online portal and make direct payments for eligible expenses to the school or an approved vendor for supplemental materials or services, such as school equipment or tutoring services.
 
Will my child be eligible for ESA if he/she already attends a Catholic school?
Yes! Students currently enrolled in our Catholic schools are eligible to apply for an ESA and are encouraged to do so. The law prioritizes families with household incomes below 500% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
 
Interested parents must apply for each eligible child during this application window to be considered for an ESA for the 2026-2027 school year.
Apply at diocesecc.org.esa