Alabama families can now begin applying for education funding through the state’s CHOOSE Act, with application portals opening in phases for the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year.
The CHOOSE Act, passed by the Alabama Legislature in 2024, created Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) that allow eligible families to receive refundable income tax credits to help cover a range of education-related expenses.
The program is designed to give families greater flexibility in choosing educational options that best meet their children’s needs.
According to program guidelines, ESAs may be used for qualified expenses such as private school tuition, tutoring, educational therapies and other approved educational services.
The application process will take place online through the state’s official CHOOSE Act website, with the following key dates announced for the 2026–2027 school year:
- The application portal for renewing families opens December 15, 2025.
- The application portal for new families opens January 2, 2026.
- All applications must be submitted by March 31, 2026.
- Award notifications will be sent April 15, 2026.
Families can review eligibility requirements, prepare required documentation and apply at chooseact.alabama.gov, where FAQs and guidance materials are also available.
Under the program, funding levels vary depending on a student’s educational setting.
Eligible students enrolled in a participating school may receive up to $7,000 per student.
Students participating in a home education program may receive $2,000 per student, with a maximum of $4,000 per family.
For the 2026-2027 school year, new applicants must have an adjusted gross income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level. Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, the program is expected to expand eligibility to all families, regardless of income.
Priority consideration is given to certain student groups, including students with special needs, current program participants and their siblings, children of active-duty military members, and students enrolled in or assigned to designated priority schools.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
