State Funding for Dyslexia: ESAs, School Vouchers, and External Scholarships by State

If you are searching for ESA funding for dyslexia, school vouchers for dyslexia tutoring, or state programs that help cover private school or reading intervention, you are not alone.

Many states now offer education funding programs that families can use for:

  • Private school tuition
  • Dyslexia therapy
  • Structured literacy tutoring
  • Curriculum and materials
  • Educational testing
  • Approved educational therapies
These programs can feel overwhelming at first. This page is designed to help you understand:
  • What types of funding exist
  • Whether your state offers universal or need-based funding
  • How families generally qualify
  • What enrollment usually involves
  • Where to find official state application links

Understanding the Types of State Funding

There are three main types of external education funding programs in the United States.

Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)

An ESA is a state-funded account deposited directly to a family. Parents can use those funds on approved educational expenses, which often include:
  • Dyslexia tutoring
  • Certified therapy services
  • Curriculum
  • Educational materials
  • Private school tuition
ESAs tend to offer the most flexibility for families seeking targeted dyslexia support.

School
Vouchers

Voucher programs typically send funds directly to a participating private school on behalf of the student.
These programs are usually best suited for families pursuing:
  • Private school placement
  • Specialized schools for dyslexia
  • Faith-based education
Voucher programs are often more limited in how funds can be used compared to ESAs.

Tax-Credit
Scholarship Programs

These programs are funded by private donations that receive state tax credits. Scholarship organizations then distribute funds to eligible students.
Eligibility criteria vary significantly by state.

States Offering ESA or Voucher Funding

Below is a general list of states currently offering some form of ESA or voucher-style funding. For the most accurate and updated details, families should visit each state's official program website. While Dyslexia On Demand is not an approved vendor in every state, many families are still able to access funding based on their state’s guidelines and individual circumstances.

TEXAS

Program: Texas ESA Program

Funding: Up to approximately $10,000+ per student; higher amounts for students with disabilities

Typical/Max Funding: ~$10,000–$10,800 per student annually for private school tuition and approved expenses.

Students with disabilities (IEP): Up to ~$30,000 per year.

Homeschool students:
Up to ~$2,000 per year.

FLORIDA

Program: Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES), Unique Abilities Scholarship

Funding: 100% of state per-pupil funding plus categorical funding

Typical/Max Funding: ~$10,000–$10,800 per student annually for private school tuition and approved expenses.


Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES): Approximately $8,000 per student (varies by grade & funding organization).

Unique Abilities Scholarship: Often similar or slightly higher amounts for students with disabilities (up to approx. $10,000+) depending on provider and eligibility.

ARIZONA

Program: Empowerment Scholarship Account

Funding: Approximately 90% of state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: Roughly $7,000+ per student annually (used for many educational expenses).

TENNESSEE

Program: Education Savings Account / IEA

Funding: State and local funding formula

Typical/Max Funding: Approximately $7,295–$7,500 per student per year for the 2025–26 school year (based on the state funding formula).

MISSISSIPPI

Program: Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs

Funding: Approximately $6,500

Typical/Max Funding: Approximately $6,500 per student per year (amount tied to state funding and special needs formulas).

IOWA

Program: Students First ESA

Funding: 100% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: Varies yearly based on state budget and formula; generally in the mid–$6,000s to $7,000s). Exact current figure varies by district funding formula.

MONTANA

Program: Special Needs ESA

Funding: Formula-based

Typical/Max Funding: Usually tied to per-pupil state funding; specific current figures vary and should be confirmed via the state Department of Education

WEST VIRGINIA

Program: Hope Scholarship

Funding: 100% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max 
Around $4,900–$5,000 per student per year (may adjust annually with budget changes).

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Program: Freedom Account

Funding: 100% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: About $5,200–$5,300 per eligible student annually.

UTAH

Program: Utah Fits All Scholarship

Funding: Approximately $8,000

Typical/Max Funding: RUp to $8,000 per student per year (amount may depend on income tiers within the program)

INDIANA

Program: ESA / Choice Scholarship Program

Funding: Approximately 90% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: Up to approximately $9,000+ per student annually for students with disabilities (amount tied to state funding levels and specific disability categories).

SOUTH CAROLINA

Program:  Education Scholarship Trust Fund

Funding: Approximately $6,000

Typical/Max Funding: $6,000 per student annually (varies slightly by grade level and state allocation)

NORTH CAROLINA

Program: Personal Education Student Accounts

Funding: Up to approximately $9,000+ for students with disabilities

Typical/Max Funding: Up to approximately $9,000+ per student annually for students with disabilities (amount tied to state funding levels and specific disability categories).

MISSOURI

Program: Empowerment Scholarship Accounts

Funding: 100% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: Specific figure varies annually based on state education funding.

ARKANSAS

Program: Children’s Educational Freedom Account

Funding: Approximately 90% state per-pupil funding

Typical/Max Funding: Exact amount varies by state budget cycle.

General Processes for How to Enroll

Although timelines vary, most state programs follow a similar structure:

Step 1:
Monitor Application Windows

Most programs open applications in late winter or spring for the upcoming school year.

Step 2:
Create an Online Account

Applications are typically completed through a state portal or approved scholarship organization website.

Step 3:
Upload Required Documentation

Residency, school records, and eligibility documentation are submitted digitally.

Step 4:
Wait for Award Determination

Programs may approve on a rolling basis or after a review period.

Step 5:
Select Approved Vendors

Families must typically choose from an approved provider list.
Important: Some programs fill quickly. Applying early is often essential.

Universal vs. Need-Based Programs

One of the most important distinctions parents should understand is whether a program is universal or need-based
Each state defines eligibility differently.

Universal Programs

Universal funding programs allow nearly all families in the state to apply, regardless of income.
Some universal programs may:
  • Prioritize students with disabilities first
  • Phase in eligibility over time
  • Cap the number of available scholarships annually
Universal programs tend to be simpler to qualify for, but demand can be high.

Need-Based Programs

Need-based programs may require one or more of the following:
  • Income below a certain threshold
  • Existing IEP or 504 Plan
  • Formal disability diagnosis
  • Prior public school enrollment
  • Demonstration of academic need
In some states, dyslexia may qualify under a specific disability category. In others, eligibility may require a broader learning disability designation.

How Families
Generally Qualify

While every state has its own rules, most funding applications require:
  • Proof of state residency
  • Student birth certificate or identification
  • Prior school enrollment verification (if required)
  • Income documentation (for income-based programs)
  • Educational documentation (IEP, 504, or evaluation report if applying under disability eligibility)
For students with dyslexia, families often submit:
  • Psychoeducational evaluation
  • School evaluation report
  • Documentation of specific learning disability
  • Prior intervention history

What If My State
Doesn’t Offer Funding?

Families can:
  • Seek nonprofit tutoring scholarships
  • Apply for local foundation grants
  • Explore payment plans with therapy providers
  • Consider homeschool hybrid options
  • Advocate for school-based services while supplementing privately
Even in states without universal funding, many families build layered solutions.

It is important to note that not all programs require a formal diagnosis, but many disability-based programs do.

Alternative Dyslexia Funding Sources

If your state does not offer ESA or voucher funding or if funding is capped, there may still be options.
Answers at your fingertips

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to our most frequently asked questions about state funding!

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Need Help Interpreting Your Options?

Understanding state funding can feel complicated — especially when you are also navigating a dyslexia diagnosis.
Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!

If you would like help:
  • Understanding what your state program covers
  • Determining whether your child qualifies
  • Building a reading plan that aligns with available funding
  • Preparing documentation
We are here to help.

A: Yes, most Education Savings Account (ESA) programs allow funds to be used for private tutoring. Since Dyslexia on Demand provides services through Certified Academic Language Therapists (CALTs), our sessions typically qualify as an eligible educational expense. You should check your specific state's approved vendor list or manual for reimbursement details.

In many states, a formal diagnosis of dyslexia qualifies a student for "Unique Abilities" or "Special Needs" scholarship tracks. Programs like Florida’s FES-UA or Arizona’s ESA specifically designate dyslexia as an eligible condition, providing families with public funding to pay for specialized reading intervention and private tuition.

Most state programs maintain an online portal (like ClassWallet or Merit) where you can search for approved service providers. To use your funds with Dyslexia on Demand, you can often submit our invoices for reimbursement or pay directly through the portal if we are listed as a registered vendor in your state.

A school voucher is typically restricted to paying for private school tuition. In contrast, an Education Savings Account (ESA) is more flexible, allowing parents to "unbundle" education. ESA funds can be spent on multiple services simultaneously, including private school tuition, individual dyslexia tutoring, speech therapy, and required instructional materials
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What Our Families & Partners Are Saying

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Dyslexia On Demand5.0
Based on 76 reviews
“Watching Joseph grow through Dyslexia On Demand has been nothing short of life changing for our family. What once felt overwhelming now feels full of possibility because of the support and guidance they provide. They have helped my son build confidence, strength, and belief in himself as a learner. As parents, we are deeply grateful for the difference Dyslexia Online has made in Joseph’s life.”
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Abril 😀
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We are only 2.5 months into my daughter’s Dyslexia on Demand program, and we are already seeing improvements. We opted for the group therapy lessons, and they have been great. She absolutely loves her sweet teacher, Ms. Heather, and looks forward to seeing her each week. We’ve noticed she is gaining much more confidence in her reading and is starting to truly enjoy it. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her as she continues with the program.
My learner never had access to structured literacy before. Dyslexia on Demand is literally changing the trajectory of their life by helping them become a reader.

Edited to add- Dyslexia on Demand and our therapist Elizabeth are amazing. My son needs fairly significant support. I imagine it could be easy to feel that he is too difficult to serve given his struggles with language and attention. But Elizabeth has never wavered. I sense she's just as committed to his success as I am, and it feels like such a relief to finally have that kind of partner. She has had a tremendous impact on our family by giving us greater hope for our son's future. My appreciation for her could never be overstated.
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Dyslexia on Demand and our therapist Elizabeth are amazing. My son needs fairly significant support. I imagine it could be easy to feel that he is too difficult to serve given his struggles with language and attention. But Elizabeth has never wavered. I sense she's just as committed to his success as I am, and it feels like such a relief to finally have that kind of partner. She has had a tremendous impact on our family by giving us greater hope for our son's future. My appreciation for her could never be overstated.
Our daughter,Emersyn, has been with Dyslexia on Demand for a couple years now! We are so pleased with all the services they provide! She has had two therapists and both have been knowledgeable,patient,helpful,and kind. They see her! The curriculum is very comprehensive! Emersyn has gained so much confidence in reading and spelling! We look forward to her future progress with Dyslexia on Demand! Thank you Dyslexia on Demand!
Amazing Amazing ultimate best online support for your brilliant dyslexic child. We are so greatful for finding this great support and learning avenue ❤️
Two of my children receive therapy from Dyslexia on Demand. Both are thriving and making incredible progress!

My son has been working with Brooke for less than a year and has grown in his reading skills and his confidence! His change of heart towards reading and learning has been a beautiful transition to watch and has brought me peace of mind and relief watching him get on the right track and receive the support he needed.

Most extraordinarily though, my 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia at age 7 and has struggled so much through the years. She has undergone intensive therapies and even attended a dyslexic private school for a few years, where she received specialized instruction and one-on-one therapy daily. Even after years of therapy and specialized education, she started 5th grade, last year, with a 3.2 reading level. A year later, her STAR testing showed she was starting 6th grade with a 7.8 reading level! Dyslexia on Demand and her provider, Kim, have so much to do with her progress, confidence and success. To watch that gap finally close and to witness my child read confidently is a joy I can’t describe and has been worth every investment of time and resources!

I can not adequately describe the impact Dyslexia on Demand has had on our lives, but to put it simply, I am so genuinely impressed, grateful and thankful!
I can't speak highly enough of Dyslexia On Demand - from my first conversation with Megan I felt an understanding of everything we had been dealing with through the years. She was able to quickly help me understand what my child needed and what we needed to do. My daughter is in high school and at first didn't want to think about therapy, but she loves her therapist, Suzanne. She is always ready for her session which I think speaks volumes and is continuing to build her confidence. We are excited to see her continued growth through the program.
Dyslexia on Demand has been such a blessing for our little girl! Since starting this 2yr course which she will be finishing in a year in half- we went from not remembering site words or barely remembering sounds of letters and decoding to reading past a 3rd grade level! This has been such a treat to watch! Are therapist is like being part of our little family
Dyslexia on Demand has been absolutely life-changing for my daughter. Before we found them, reading felt overwhelming and discouraging for her, but now she is growing in confidence every week. The one-on-one support and specialized approach have truly made all the difference. Her tutor is patient, encouraging, and really understands how to meet her where she is. Not only has her reading improved, but her overall confidence.
My 9 year old daughter started Dyselxia on Demand in June 2 and this is the only intervention we have constantly seen growth with since being diagnosed with dyslexia. We immediately saw growth in fluency, ability to access curriculum and writing. Her confidence is building and we are finding her reading for pleasure which has been so heartweraring. A CALT, using a research based program is exactly what she needed. This was the answer to our prayers and we are excited to see her continue to grow! We have worked with 2 CALT's and they have both been engaging, positive, caring and great communicators.
My friend, whose SIL works for DOD, recommended the company. And I'm so grateful! Reasonably priced and my daughter's reading has astronomically improved - she's reading much better than I had ever expected after having started this past summer! She loves her therapist and she's spontaneously reading on her own with significantly improved fluency. I'm no longer worried about her confidence; her spelling as improved. I'm hoping to continue past her therapy so her reading continues to strengthen to its fullest capacity.
We’ve had such a wonderful experience with Dyslexia on Demand. My son has struggled with reading for years, but since starting with his instructor, his reading skills have improved dramatically. Even more importantly, his confidence has grown so much. He no longer gets discouraged when reading and is actually starting to enjoy it. The patience, knowledge, and encouragement provided have made all the difference. I am so grateful for the support they’ve given our family and highly recommend them to anyone whose child is struggling with reading or dyslexia.
Having a child with a learning difference can sometimes be difficult to navigate! Unfortunately kids don't come with a manual and definitely not children that learn "outside of the norm". Our son went to a school for kids with learning differences and after 5 years we weren't convinced he would ever read on grade level, so by the time we found DoD we were desperate. We met with Megan and she settled our mind that there was a therapist that could meet our teenage son where he was and with time and effort he would read! She paired us with a therapist that had experience working with older, maybe a little more resistant children. We love Brooke! Easton loves Brooke and he really, truly looks forward to their sessions together. Thank you so much to all of the staff at DoD and a special shoutout to our therapist, Brooke. Easons future is looking bright!
This dyslexia program is the best of the best! We love our CALT, Lauren B.! My daughter was slow going then it clicked about 9 months in (so keep at it, trust the process)! I highly recommend Dyslexia on Demand!!
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This program is the best of the best! We love our CALT, Lauren! My daughter was slow going then it clicked about 9 months in (so keep at it, trust the process)! I highly recommend Dyslexia on Demand!!
My daughter has had a tutor through Dyslexia on Demand for over 2 years and it was the best decision we ever made. Lisa, her tutor, is patient, accommodating to our schedule and really wants to see my daughter succeed. AMAZING COMPANY!
My son has been doing the DOD program for 4 months now. I am impressed by how thorough the program is. The whole team is dedicated to informing and supporting both parents and their children. Our tutor is awesome! She has over 30 years of experience and is great with my son. She is also flexible with our schedule. The whole program takes a couple years on average, but for the support it offers children who would otherwise spend their school years struggling, it is well worth it. I have already seen more confidence in my son. I am glad this program offers highly qualified dyslexia tutors that we would otherwise not have access to in our area.
We have been using Dyslexia on Demand since March of this year (it is now September) and my son's spelling has improved dramatically. Not only is he better able to articulate the spelling rules, but he is increasingly more confident in attempting to spell while writing, dramatically improving his writing abilities. Our tutor has been amazing, dealing with low confidence, occasional tricky behaviors, all the while maintaining a positive, bright attitude and making sessions engaging and fun. I'm so glad I found Dyslexia on Demand!
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We HIGHLY recommend DOD! Megan and her team are absolutely a joy to work with! They listen and truly want what is best for your child which is all us parents want at the end of the day! Thank you DOD!
We absolutely have loved DOD for our child! When the school to implement their dyslexia program we needed to do something on our own. Megan and her team were amazing with baseline testing. Honest conversations on what was needed to work with our child has helped them excel! We are beyond thankful!
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The quality of instruction cannot be compared. I am a homeschool mom of 11 years. I have studied, read, trained, and explored all the options. Having professional help to conquer this mountain has been nothing but a life saver.
We adore our certified academic language therapist. She is our son’s biggest cheerleader and we are so thankful we found her! The team with DOD is always there to support us. Our son, who was told would never read, is not only a reader…he is a writer! My heart will never be able to put on a page how much gratitude I have. Thank you ❤️
We started the DOD program over the summer, and we truly feel it’s important to continue. Our therapist has been amazing—she is extremely patient, knows exactly how to get our little one focused and ready for each session, and is flexible with rescheduling, which we really appreciate with a busy schedule. After about four months, we can already see a noticeable difference in our child’s reading and understanding of letters. This program has been such a positive and encouraging experience for our family!
Dyslexia on Demand has been amazing for my son- he is almost back to grade level already!!
Dyslexia on Demand has been a great program for my daughter. She has been in the program a few months and was matched with a wonderful and knowledgeable therapist. The staff of the program have all been very helpful and thorough. I’m excited to see her progress!
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