Getting Paid to Homeschool: Can Parents Really Do It?

Do you wonder if it’s really possible to get paid for homeschooling your child? Many parents are curious about whether homeschooling can come with financial support or even a paycheck. Managing the costs and time involved in teaching your child at home can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing everything else life throws your way. In 2025, over 3.7 million children in the United States attend homeschooling, making it an increasingly popular choice for families seeking flexible, personalized education.

In this blog, we’ll explore what “getting paid to homeschool” actually means. You’ll learn about the different types of financial support available to homeschooling families across the U.S., what steps you can take to access them, and how TSHA’s flexible, hands-on curriculum can help you make the most of your homeschooling journey. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the possibilities and practical advice to move forward confidently.

TL;DR

• Parents generally do not get paid a salary for homeschooling their children.

• Many U.S. states offer financial support through scholarships, education savings accounts (ESAs), and tax credits.

• Availability and amount of support vary by state and may require enrollment in specific homeschool or charter programs.

• TSHA’s American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) offers a flexible, hands-on, and cost-effective homeschooling solution.

• TSHA’s resources help families provide engaging, non-screen-based learning while maximizing educational value.

• Research your state’s programs and consider TSHA to make homeschooling more affordable and manageable.

  
  

What Does “Getting Paid to Homeschool” Really Mean?

When parents ask, can you get paid to homeschool your child? it’s important to understand what this actually entails. Unlike a traditional job where you receive a salary, “getting paid to homeschool” typically refers to accessing financial support programs that help cover the costs of homeschooling rather than direct income.

For example, Arizona’s ESA program is open to all students and covers a broad range of expenses, while Florida’s Family Empowerment Scholarship targets families with special needs children or low income. Other states like Texas and West Virginia offer grants or scholarships to help with homeschooling costs.

The key takeaway is that parents don’t receive a paycheck like a teacher, but they can often access state-funded financial assistance to help manage the expenses of homeschooling. Understanding your state’s specific programs and requirements is essential to making the most of these opportunities.

This financial support helps reduce the burden of homeschooling costs, making it more accessible and sustainable for families committed to providing personalized, hands-on education at home.

Now that we understand what “getting paid to homeschool” really means, let’s take a closer look at the types of financial support programs available to homeschooling families across the United States.

Overview of Financial Support Programs for Homeschooling Parents in the US

Financial support for homeschooling families comes in several forms, designed to help ease the costs of curriculum, supplies, and other educational expenses. While parents generally do not receive a salary for homeschooling, many states offer programs that provide valuable assistance. These include:

• Educational Grants: Direct funds provided to families to cover homeschooling-related expenses. These grants often have eligibility criteria and may require application through the state or local education agencies.

• Education Savings Accounts (ESAs): State-funded accounts that parents can use to pay for approved educational costs such as curriculum, tutoring, testing fees, and sometimes private school tuition. ESAs offer flexibility and often allow funds to roll over annually.

• Tax Credits and Deductions: Some states provide tax benefits that reduce the amount of state income tax owed based on qualified homeschooling expenses, effectively lowering the financial burden.

• Public Charter School Enrollment: In certain states, enrolling children in a public charter school that supports homeschooling can unlock access to funding or resources, including curriculum materials and educational supplies.

Note: It’s important to note that these programs vary widely from state to state in terms of availability, eligibility, and funding amounts. Some states have robust support systems for homeschooling families, while others offer limited or no direct financial assistance.

Next, let’s explore some examples of states that offer financial support programs to homeschooling families and what those programs look like in practice.

Examples of States Offering Financial Support to Homeschooling Families

Several states in the U.S. have established financial support programs to help homeschooling families manage educational expenses. Here are some notable examples based on recent data:

1. Alaska: Educational Allotment Program

• Provides homeschooling families with an educational allotment to help cover curriculum, supplies, and learning materials.

• The allotment is designed to support families who choose to homeschool, making resources more accessible.

• Parents must comply with state homeschooling laws and maintain records to qualify.

• The program is part of Alaska’s broader effort to support diverse educational choices.

  
  

2. Arizona: Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESAs)

• ESAs allow parents to use state funds for a variety of educational expenses including curriculum, tutoring, testing, and therapy services.

• Open to all students, including those already enrolled in public schools or homeschooling families.

• Funds can be managed through a prepaid debit card or reimbursed after purchases.

• Arizona’s ESA program is one of the most flexible and widely used in the country.

3. Florida: Family Empowerment Scholarship

• Offers Education Savings Accounts primarily for families with special needs children or those with low income.

• Funds can be used for approved homeschooling expenses like curriculum, tutoring, and extracurricular activities.

• Parents must apply annually and meet eligibility criteria based on income or special education status.

• The program aims to increase educational options and affordability for families.

4. California: Charter School Homeschool Funding

• Certain public charter schools in California provide funding and resources to homeschooling families who enroll through their programs.

• Homeschool families gain access to curriculum materials, instructional support, and sometimes group learning opportunities.

• Enrollment requirements vary by charter school, so families should research options carefully.

• This model blends public school resources with homeschooling flexibility.

5. Utah: Fits All Scholarship Program

• Provides scholarships to homeschooling families to cover curriculum, extracurricular activities, and educational supplies.

• Open to all students regardless of income, making it widely accessible.

• Parents must submit applications and maintain documentation of educational progress.

• The program supports personalized learning approaches and diverse educational needs.

6. Other States with Homeschool Support Programs

• Indiana, Louisiana, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and West Virginia offer various grants or scholarships to homeschooling families.

• Programs differ in eligibility, funding amounts, and allowable expenses.

• Some states require enrollment in specific programs or compliance with reporting standards.

• These programs reflect growing recognition of homeschooling as a valid educational choice.

7. Upcoming Program: Georgia

• Georgia is set to launch a homeschool financial support program starting in 2025.

• Details are still emerging, but the program is expected to provide families with funds for curriculum and related expenses.

• This initiative reflects increasing support for homeschooling families in the state.

Now that the various state programs offering financial support for homeschooling have been outlined, it’s essential to understand the practical steps for accessing and applying to these resources to make the most of what’s available.

How to Access These Financial Supports?

Accessing financial support for homeschooling requires understanding the specific requirements and application processes in your state. Here are key steps to help navigate this process effectively:

1. Research State Programs

The first step is for you to research the financial support programs available in your state. You can start by visiting your state’s Department of Education website or consulting homeschool advocacy organizations. Look for grants, scholarships, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), and tax benefits designed specifically for homeschooling families. Since each state offers different programs and benefits, thorough research is essential to understand what options apply to your situation.

Example: In Arizona, you can explore the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which offers flexible funding for homeschooling expenses.

2. Understand Eligibility Criteria

Once you identify potential programs, make sure you carefully review their eligibility criteria. Some programs may have income limits, special needs requirements, or stipulations about enrollment in approved homeschool or charter programs. Ensuring that you meet these qualifications before applying will help you avoid delays or application denials.

Example: Florida’s Family Empowerment Scholarship targets families with special needs children or those who meet certain income thresholds, so understanding these rules is crucial before you apply.

3. Prepare Required Documentation

Gather all necessary documentation ahead of time to streamline your application process. This typically includes proof of residency, income verification, homeschool enrollment forms, and educational plans or progress reports. Having these documents organized and ready will make submitting your application smoother and faster.

Example: Utah’s Fits All Scholarship program requires you to submit an educational plan along with proof of residency and income documentation.

4. Submit Applications on Time

Be sure to keep track of application deadlines, which vary by state and program. Some programs require you to reapply annually to maintain eligibility. Missing these deadlines can result in losing access to financial support for that year, so it’s important to mark all important dates and submit your applications promptly.

Example: Alaska’s educational allotment program has specific enrollment periods each year, and late applications are typically not accepted.

5. Maintain Compliance

After receiving financial support, you will likely need to maintain compliance by keeping detailed records of educational activities, attendance, and how funds are spent. Staying organized and adhering to these reporting requirements is crucial to continue qualifying for assistance in subsequent years.

Example: Indiana’s homeschool grant program requires you to submit quarterly progress reports and receipts for expenses to remain eligible.

6. Seek Support and Guidance

Don’t hesitate to seek help from homeschool organizations, local support groups, or educational consultants. These resources can provide valuable guidance on navigating application processes, understanding program details, and increasing your chances of successfully accessing financial support.

Example: The Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) offers resources and assistance to families exploring homeschooling financial aid options across various states.

By following these steps, you can effectively access the available financial assistance, making your homeschooling journey more affordable and manageable.

Legitimate Ways Parents Can Earn While Homeschooling

While you typically can’t get paid by the government to homeschool your own child, there are legitimate ways to earn an income while homeschooling, especially if you’re willing to share your teaching abilities with others.

1. Start a Micro-School or Learning Pod

One of the most popular income-generating paths is to start a micro-school or learning pod, where you teach a small group of children, including your own. Programs like The School House Anywhere (TSHA) make this easier by providing a complete Pre-K to 6th grade curriculum (The American Emergent Curriculum), hands-on learning resources, and operational tools. 

With TSHA, you can turn your homeschool into a structured, legally compliant learning space and charge tuition to participating families.

2. Become an Education Entrepreneur

Parents who love homeschooling often turn their expertise into a small business. This could include:

• Tutoring other children

• Writing or selling curriculum and educational printables

• Offering educational coaching or consulting services for new homeschoolers

These services can be offered online or in person, depending on your schedule and goals.

3. Teach Other Children (Within Legal Limits)

In many states, it is legal to teach children from other families for a fee, as long as you follow local guidelines. You may need to register as a private school or adhere to childcare regulations, depending on the number of students and hours of instruction.

4. Partner with Homeschool Co-Ops or Community Centers

Another option is to work with local homeschool co-ops, learning centers, or community groups. Many of these programs hire experienced homeschooling parents to lead enrichment classes, facilitate projects, or manage administrative tasks.

These income opportunities allow you to remain involved in your child’s education while also contributing financially and in many cases, enriching your local learning community.

Avoiding Scams and Misconceptions

When searching for ways to earn money while homeschooling, it's easy to come across misleading claims or outright scams. Some websites and social media posts may promise “easy money” just for teaching your child at home but these offers are often too good to be true.

The Truth About Homeschooling Stipends

There’s a common misconception that parents across the U.S. receive homeschooling stipends or salaries. In reality, homeschool stipends are extremely rare, and when they do exist, they are usually tied to public charter school programs or education savings accounts (ESAs) with strict eligibility rules and oversight requirements.

If you see offers that promise monthly payments just for registering as a homeschooler, especially without requiring documentation or legal compliance, approach with caution.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary of any opportunity that:

• Requires an upfront fee to “unlock” government homeschool funding.

• Promises guaranteed income without specifying state programs or requirements.

• Asks for personal financial details without a secure, verified platform.

• Claims you can be paid simply for choosing to homeschool your own child without offering a legitimate service or teaching others.

What Legitimate Opportunities Look Like

Legitimate ways to earn while homeschooling often involve:

• Providing a service to others, such as teaching in a micro-school or creating curriculum.

• Participating in state-sanctioned programs like ESAs, where funds are used strictly for educational purposes.

• Working with recognized homeschool support programs like TSHA that offer tools and resources to help launch income-generating educational models.

When in doubt, research the opportunity through state education websites or consult with trusted homeschooling networks.

How TSHA Supports Education Entrepreneurs?

For parents who are passionate about education and want to turn that passion into a source of income, TSHA offers a powerful solution. Unlike traditional homeschool programs, TSHA is designed not only to support families at home but also to empower education entrepreneurs to create sustainable, community-based learning models.

1. Start Your Own Paid Micro-School

With TSHA’s comprehensive support system, parents and educators can launch micro-schools right from their homes, community centers, or places of worship. TSHA helps you navigate the setup process, offering resources for:

• Finding and organizing your learning space

• Accessing the full American Emergent Curriculum (AEC) for Pre-K to 6th grade

• Structuring your learning schedule around hands-on, secular education

You can invite other families to enroll their children and charge tuition, creating a legal and community-rooted educational offering that also generates income.

2. Teach Neighborhood Kids with Confidence

Whether you’re teaching one child or ten, TSHA gives you the confidence and tools to lead effectively. With:

• Custom printable worksheets and six-week curriculum modules

• A user-friendly progress tracking tool (Transparent Classroom)

• 24/7 live educator support and weekly online gatherings with TSHA founders

You’re never on your own. TSHA ensures that even first-time educators can deliver a structured, enriching experience.

3. Build a Portable, Purpose-Driven School Business

For traveling families or digital nomads, TSHA offers unmatched flexibility. You can bring the curriculum and your educational business anywhere, adapting your micro-school model to fit your lifestyle. The non-screen format and real-world learning approach mean you can teach on the move without needing internet access or digital devices.

With TSHA, you’re not just homeschooling. You’re building something bigger. Whether you want to start small or scale into a full-fledged micro-school, TSHA provides the curriculum, structure, support, and tools to make it happen.

Conclusion

While you typically can’t get paid to homeschool your own child directly, that doesn’t mean earning an income while educating is out of reach. By exploring state-supported programs, educational grants, and entrepreneurial paths like micro-schooling, parents can find real, legal ways to make homeschooling more financially sustainable.

Whether you’re considering teaching other children, launching a small school, or offering your expertise through tutoring or curriculum development, the opportunities are growing and accessible.

Programs like TSHA are designed to support these efforts, giving parents and educators everything they need to teach, lead, and even earn without compromising hands-on, screen-free learning. If you're ready to turn your passion for education into something more, TSHA can help you take the first step.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get government funding to homeschool my child?

In most cases, parents don’t receive direct funding to homeschool their own children. However, some states offer Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) or reimbursement programs that can help cover educational expenses like curriculum, tutoring, and supplies.

2. What states offer stipends for homeschooling?

States like Arizona, Florida, Alaska, and West Virginia have programs that provide financial support through ESAs or charter partnerships. These funds can be used for approved educational services, though parents are typically not paid a salary.

3. How can I earn income while homeschooling?

Parents can earn income by teaching other children, starting a micro-school, offering tutoring services, selling educational materials, or working with homeschool co-ops. Programs like TSHA make it easier to launch these education-based ventures.

4. Is it legal to homeschool other people’s children for money?

Yes, but it depends on your state’s regulations. Some states require registration as a private school or childcare provider if you’re regularly educating children from multiple families for a fee. Always check local laws before offering paid instruction.

5. What is an ESA and how can I use it for homeschooling?

An Education Savings Account (ESA) is a state-funded account that allows eligible families to use public funds for private education needs, including homeschooling. ESA funds can often be used for curriculum, tutoring, and educational tools though eligibility and rules vary by state.