All families interested in TEFA funding will apply at the same time when the application window opens in February 2026. The state will then review applications and determine eligibility.

Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Apply – Parents submit an application through the state’s TEFA portal in February 2026.

Step 2: Provide financial documents – Families will likely need to upload their most recently filed IRS tax return (2024 return if the 2025 return is not yet filed). The state will use this to verify household income.

Step 3: Sorting into priority groups – The state will place families into one of the four categories (students with disabilities, low-income, middle-income, or higher-income).

Step 4: Notification – By March-May 2026, families will be informed whether they qualify and what funding amount they are awarded.

Families do not need to prove eligibility in advance — the determination happens after applying. Once awarded, TEFA funding rolls forward annually as long as eligibility requirements are met.