The Money Myth: Homeschooling Options for Every Budget
Part of Module: The Truth About Homeschooling
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The Big Myth We're Breaking Today
The False Belief
"Homeschooling is expensive — I'd need to buy curriculum, supplies, and materials that will cost thousands of dollars, and we can't afford that on top of losing an income."
The New Reality
"Homeschooling can cost anywhere from $0 to $2,000+ per child per year depending on MY choices — and there are tax benefits, ESAs, and free resources that can dramatically reduce or eliminate costs."
You're about to discover something that might surprise you: homeschooling doesn't have to break the bank. In fact, many families spend less on homeschooling than they did on "free" public school. The key is understanding your options and making choices that fit your family's budget and values.
Where You're Starting From
Your Current Tools
You have a vague sense that "curriculum is expensive" but lack concrete numbers or comparison points to make informed decisions.
Your Current Resources
No awareness of the vast world of free options, tax benefits that could save you hundreds, or state funding programs that might cover everything.
Your Current Skills
You haven't yet learned how to evaluate curriculum costs effectively or create a realistic homeschool budget tailored to your family.
Your Current Knowledge
You assume homeschooling requires significant financial investment without understanding the full spectrum of possibilities.
Where You're Going
New Tools You'll Gain
A comprehensive budget framework showing costs at every level, from completely free to premium options, so you can make informed choices.
New Resources You'll Discover
Access to extensive lists of free and low-cost curriculum options, plus knowledge of tax benefits and Education Savings Accounts that many families don't know exist.
New Skills You'll Build
The ability to create a realistic, customized homeschool budget for your specific family situation and educational goals.
New Knowledge You'll Have
Complete understanding of the full range of options and funding sources available, empowering you to make the best choice for your family.
The Problem We're Solving
"We can't afford to homeschool"
This is the concern that stops many families before they even start exploring. Between curriculum costs, supplies, and the possibility of losing income, it feels financially impossible. But what if the story you've been told about homeschooling costs isn't the complete picture?
Today, you're going to discover that cost is actually a choice you control, not a barrier that blocks your path. Let's break down the real numbers and explore options at every budget level.
What Does Homeschooling Actually Cost?
Here's the honest answer: It depends entirely on YOUR choices. Homeschooling isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither is the budget. You have complete control over how much you spend, from absolutely nothing to premium options with all the bells and whistles.

National Average: The Home School Legal Defense Association reports that most families spend $500-600 per child per year. Compare that to private school ($12,000-25,000+/year) or even "free" public school, which actually costs families $500-1,000+/year in supplies, fees, activities, and fundraisers.
The key insight here is transformative: You control the budget. Homeschooling can cost less than "free" public school if you're resourceful. The vague fear of "expensive" gets replaced with concrete numbers you can actually plan around.
The $0 Homeschool — Yes, It's Possible
Many families don't realize that you can provide a complete, high-quality education without spending a single dollar on curriculum. The key is knowing where to find the treasure trove of free resources that already exist.
Free Complete Curriculum Options
Khan Academy
Complete K-12 curriculum covering math, science, history, computing, and test prep. Video lessons with practice problems make learning engaging and self-paced.
Easy Peasy All-in-One
A full curriculum for all subjects, Christian-based, and completely free. Many families use this as their primary curriculum from start to finish.
Ambleside Online
Charlotte Mason style education with complete book lists and schedules. Uses living books (real literature) instead of textbooks for a rich learning experience.
Your Library: The Ultimate Homeschool Tool
Your local library is truly a homeschool goldmine that many families underutilize. Beyond just books, libraries offer:
  • Curriculum books to try before buying — Test out expensive curriculum without the commitment
  • Living books for literature-based learning — Build your entire history and science curriculum from quality books
  • Audiobooks for read-alouds — Perfect for listening during car rides or while doing chores
  • DVDs and documentaries — Visual learning resources on every topic imaginable
  • Free museum passes — Many libraries offer passes to local museums and attractions
  • Interlibrary loan — Access books from any library in the network, vastly expanding your options
  • Online databases — Often includes paid educational resources that are free with your library card
Free Math Resources
  • Khan Academy (complete K-12)
  • IXL (limited free daily questions)
  • Prodigy (game-based learning, free version)
  • Math Mammoth (free worksheet samples)
Free Reading & Language Arts
  • Starfall (early readers)
  • ReadWorks (reading comprehension)
  • CommonLit (grades 6-12 literature)
  • Libby app (free library audiobooks)
Free Science Resources
  • Mystery Science (limited free access)
  • National Geographic Kids
  • NASA STEM resources
  • YouTube science channels (SciShow Kids, Crash Course)
Free History & Social Studies
  • Liberty's Kids (American history videos)
  • BrainPOP (limited free content)
  • iCivics (government and civics)
  • History.com educational videos
Many families assume they MUST buy curriculum. They don't. Free homeschooling is not only possible — it's legitimate, effective, and used successfully by thousands of families every year.
The Budget Homeschool — $50-300 Per Year
At this level, you're mixing the best free resources with strategic purchases that give you the most impact for your money. This is where being part of the homeschool community really pays off.
Sample $200/Year Budget for Elementary
Notice what's not on this list: reading materials (library), history (free online + library), and most science content (free resources + household items for experiments). You're strategically spending where it matters most while leveraging free resources everywhere else.
Where to Find Used Curriculum
01
Homeschool Facebook Groups
Search for "[Your State] Homeschool Curriculum Sale" to find local groups where families buy, sell, and trade curriculum at significant discounts.
02
eBay and Online Marketplaces
Search specific curriculum names to find used editions. Many come with teacher guides and answer keys included.
03
Homeschool Conventions
Vendors often offer deep discounts at conventions, and you can find used curriculum at swap tables.
04
End-of-Year Sales
Rainbow Resource, Christianbook.com, and other retailers run major sales in summer when families are switching curriculum.

Budget Tip: Join a homeschool co-op or Facebook group early. Experienced homeschoolers often give away or sell curriculum they've finished using at deeply discounted prices. Building these connections can save you hundreds of dollars each year.
Most families can find $200 per year in their budget, especially when they factor in what they're saving on school-related expenses. This removes the "we can't afford it" excuse and makes homeschooling accessible to nearly everyone.
The Moderate Budget — $300-800 Per Year
This is the "sweet spot" where most homeschoolers land comfortably. At this level, you can buy new curriculum for your core subjects AND add enrichment like field trips, online classes, or special materials without financial stress.
Sample $600/Year Budget
Popular All-in-One Curriculum Options
Many families at this budget level choose complete curriculum packages that take the guesswork out of planning. Here are some popular choices:
Sonlight
$500-900/year — Literature-based approach with all books included. Great for families who love reading aloud together.
My Father's World
$300-500/year — Combines Charlotte Mason and traditional methods. Bible-integrated with hands-on activities.
Time4Learning
$240-360/year — Fully online interactive curriculum. Perfect for families wanting a more independent learning approach.
BookShark
$400-$1000/year — Secular version of Sonlight. Literature-rich with complete lesson plans included.
This is where most homeschoolers operate comfortably. You have enough budget for quality materials, some flexibility for enrichment, and the freedom to customize your approach without feeling financially stretched.
The Hidden Costs of "Free" Public School
Let's talk about something most people don't consider: public school isn't actually free. When you add up all the costs parents pay throughout the year, many families are surprised to discover they're spending more on "free" school than they would on homeschooling.
What Public School Really Costs Families
That's a range of $950 to $8,350 per year — and that's for "free" school! For many families, especially those paying for before and after school care, homeschooling can actually be the more affordable option.
What You Save by Homeschooling
  • School clothes and uniforms — Kids can wear comfortable everyday clothes
  • Expensive school lunches — Eating at home is significantly cheaper
  • Before and after care — Potentially $2,000-6,000/year in savings
  • Transportation costs — No gas or parking fees for school runs
  • Fundraiser pressure — No more $50 gift wrap orders you don't need
  • Class party contributions — Multiple times per year adds up
  • Teacher gift collections — 4-6 teachers across multiple holidays
  • Activity and sports fees — Often required for participation

Key Insight: Many families spend MORE on public school than they would on homeschool curriculum. This reframes the entire cost conversation from "Can we afford to homeschool?" to "Can we afford NOT to consider it?"
Tax Benefits That Reduce Your Costs
Here's where things get really interesting. The government offers several tax benefits specifically for education expenses, and many families don't know they exist. These benefits can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.
Federal Tax Benefits
529 Education Savings Plan
You can use up to $10,000 per year for K-12 education expenses, including some homeschool costs. Withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified expenses. Check your state's specific rules for homeschool coverage.
Coverdell Education Savings Account
Contribute up to $2,000 per year per child. Money grows tax-free and can be used for curriculum, books, supplies, tutoring, and educational equipment without tax penalty.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025)
New expanded benefits specifically for homeschoolers! Expands 529 coverage to include more homeschool expenses and creates scholarship donation tax credits up to $1,700.
State Tax Credits and Deductions
Several states offer additional tax benefits specifically for homeschoolers. These vary significantly by state, so it's important to check your specific state's offerings:
Action Step: Search "[Your State] homeschool tax credit" or "[Your State] homeschool tax deduction" to find current benefits in your area. Many families don't know these exist and leave hundreds of dollars on the table each year.
Education Savings Accounts — The Game Changer
This is potentially the biggest financial opportunity for homeschoolers, and most families don't even know these programs exist. An Education Savings Account (ESA) is state money deposited directly into an account for YOUR child's education.
This isn't a loan. It's not a tax credit. It's actual money you receive and can spend on approved educational expenses.
What Can You Use ESA Money For?
  • Curriculum and textbooks for any subject
  • Online courses and educational subscriptions
  • Private tutoring in any subject
  • Educational therapy (in many states)
  • Standardized testing and assessment
  • Some extracurricular educational programs
States with Universal or Near-Universal ESAs (2025)
States with Special Needs ESAs
If your child has a documented disability or IEP, you may qualify for additional funding:
North Carolina ESA+ Program
Students with disabilities who had an IEP qualify for $9,000-$17,000 per year depending on disability tier. Covers curriculum, tutoring, and educational therapies.
Georgia, Ohio, Indiana ESAs
Targeted programs for students with disabilities or from low-income families, providing thousands in educational funding.
Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee
Special needs ESA programs offering substantial funding for students with documented disabilities.
How to Apply for an ESA
1
Search
Look up "[Your State] Education Savings Account" or "[Your State] school choice program"
2
Check Eligibility
Review requirements and verify your family qualifies
3
Apply Online
Complete the application through your state's portal
4
Receive Funds
Get funds via debit card or approved vendor system
5
Spend & Document
Use for approved expenses and keep receipts

Critical to Know: In ESA states, homeschooling can be FULLY FUNDED by the state. This means you could receive thousands of dollars annually to cover all your curriculum, materials, and educational expenses. This is a complete game-changer for family budgets.
Special Education Funding Options
If your child has learning differences, disabilities, or an IEP, you have additional funding options that many families don't realize exist. In fact, children with special needs often thrive in homeschool settings because instruction can be completely individualized — and there's funding to help make it work.
What Services Can Be Covered?
  • Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)
  • Occupational Therapy (OT)
  • Physical Therapy (PT)
  • ABA/Behavioral Therapy
  • Specialized Reading Intervention (Orton-Gillingham, Barton, Wilson)
  • Assistive Technology
  • Psychological Services
  • Vision/Hearing Services
  • Executive Function Coaching
  • Educational Assessments
Three Pathways to Funding
Pathway 1: ESA States (Best Option)
If you're in an ESA state, especially one with special needs provisions, your ESA funds can cover curriculum, tutoring, and educational therapies. North Carolina's ESA+ Program provides $9,000-$17,000 annually for students with disabilities.
Pathway 2: Public School "Equitable Services"
Under IDEA, homeschooled students may access some services from their local school district. Contact your district's special education department and ask about "equitable services" or "proportionate share" services. Availability varies widely by district.
Pathway 3: Private Pay + Insurance
Private insurance often covers therapies like speech, OT, and PT. Medicaid covers therapies for qualifying families. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) can pay for some therapies, and many providers offer sliding scale fees.
Key Insight: Children with special needs often thrive in homeschool environments because every aspect of their education can be tailored to their unique learning style, pace, and needs. ESA programs recognize this and provide funding to make it financially feasible.
Your Homeschool Budget Builder
Now it's time to create a realistic budget for YOUR specific family situation. This isn't about what other families spend — it's about finding the right balance for your family's needs, values, and financial reality.
01
Basic Information
Number of children you'll be homeschooling: _____
Their current grade levels: _____
02
Choose Your Budget Level
  • ☐ Free ($0) — I'll use all free resources
  • ☐ Minimal ($50-200/child) — Mostly free + strategic purchases
  • ☐ Moderate ($300-600/child) — Mix of purchased curriculum + free resources
  • ☐ Comfortable ($600-1,200/child) — Full curriculum packages
  • ☐ Premium ($1,200+/child) — Online school, tutors, full support
03
Estimate Your Costs
Math curriculum: $_____ (or ☐ Free)
Language Arts: $_____ (or ☐ Free)
Science: $_____ (or ☐ Free)
History: $_____ (or ☐ Free)
Other subjects: $_____ (or ☐ Free)
Supplies and materials: $_____
Online subscriptions: $_____
Field trips and experiences: $_____
Estimated Total: $_____
04
Subtract Funding Sources
☐ State tax credit/deduction: -$_____
☐ 529/Coverdell use: -$_____
☐ ESA amount (if available): -$_____
Adjusted Total: $_____
05
Compare to Current Costs
What you currently spend on school-related expenses: $_____
(Include supplies, activities, lunches, before/after care, clothes, fundraisers, fees, etc.)
Difference: $_____
☐ Homeschooling will cost MORE
☐ Homeschooling will cost LESS
☐ About the same
Your Action Items
  • ☐ Check if my state has an ESA: Search "[State] education savings account"
  • ☐ Check my state's tax benefits: Search "[State] homeschool tax credit"
  • ☐ Look into 529/Coverdell options for my family
  • ☐ Join local homeschool Facebook groups for used curriculum connections
  • ☐ Get a library card if I don't have one already
  • ☐ Research curriculum options at my chosen budget level
Having concrete numbers replaces vague fears with actionable information. You now know exactly what to research and can make an informed decision based on real data, not assumptions.
The Abundance Mindset
The Scarcity Mindset Says:
  • "We can't afford curriculum"
  • "I'd have to quit my job"
  • "Only wealthy families can homeschool"
  • "I can't give my child what the school can"
The Abundance Mindset Says:
  • "There are free resources for every subject"
  • "I can find creative ways to make this work"
  • "Families at every income level homeschool successfully"
  • "I can give my child things the school CAN'T"
What You Can't Put a Price On
Individual Attention
One-on-one instruction tailored specifically to YOUR child's learning style, interests, and pace. No child gets lost in the crowd or held back waiting for others.
Learning at Their Pace
Move faster in subjects they excel at, take more time in challenging areas. No arbitrary grade-level restrictions on learning.
More Family Time
Hours together each day that would otherwise be spent on homework, commuting, and school activities. These years are precious and short.
Real-World Learning
Education that connects to actual life, not just textbooks. Field trips during off-peak times, hands-on experiences, learning from real experts.
Protected Environment
Freedom from negative peer influences, bullying, and social pressures during formative years while building confidence and character.
Aligned Values
Education that reflects and reinforces your family's values, beliefs, and priorities instead of contradicting them.
The real question isn't "Can we afford to homeschool?"
The real question is: "Can we afford NOT to?"
Money concerns are often masking deeper fears about capability, support, and whether this is really possible for your family. But now you've seen the real numbers. You've seen that families at every income level successfully homeschool. You've seen the funding sources that exist. You've created your own budget.
This reframes the entire equation from cost to investment — an investment in your child's education, your family's time together, and your values lived out daily. And that investment can be made at whatever level fits your family's financial reality.
Success Criteria: What You Should Know Now
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to confidently answer these questions and complete these tasks. Let's check your understanding:
1
State the Realistic Cost Range
Can you explain that homeschooling costs anywhere from $0 to $2,500+ per child annually, depending on family choices? Can you describe what you get at each budget level?
2
Name Free Curriculum Resources
Can you list at least three completely free, high-quality curriculum options like Khan Academy, Easy Peasy All-in-One, or Ambleside Online?
3
Explain Tax Benefits
Can you describe at least two tax benefits available to homeschoolers, such as 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, or state tax credits?
4
Check for ESAs
Do you know whether your state offers an Education Savings Account, and roughly how much funding might be available to your family?
5
Compare Costs Realistically
Can you compare homeschool costs to what you're currently spending on "free" public school or expensive private school, including hidden costs?
6
Complete Your Budget
Have you completed the Homeschool Budget Builder for your specific family situation, factoring in available funding sources?
If you can confidently do all of these things, you've successfully moved from vague fears about cost to concrete knowledge about options. You're ready to make an informed financial decision about homeschooling based on real numbers, not assumptions.
Your Homeschool Budget Cheat Sheet
Keep this reference handy as you research and plan your homeschool budget. These are the most important resources and action items to remember:
Free Resources to Bookmark
  • ☐ Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) — Math, Science, History
  • ☐ Easy Peasy All-in-One (allinonehomeschool.com) — Full curriculum
  • ☐ Ambleside Online (amblesideonline.org) — Charlotte Mason approach
  • ☐ Your local library — Books, audiobooks, databases, museum passes
  • ☐ YouTube educational channels — Free video lessons on every topic
Tax Benefits to Research
  • ☐ 529 Plan: Search "[Your State] 529 homeschool"
  • ☐ Coverdell ESA: Can contribute $2,000/year for education expenses
  • ☐ State credits: Search "[Your State] homeschool tax credit"
  • ☐ One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025) — New expanded benefits
ESA Check
  • ☐ Search: "[Your State] education savings account"
  • ☐ Universal ESA states: AZ, FL, AR, IA, WV, UT, OK, AL, TX (2026)
  • ☐ Special needs ESA states: NC, GA, OH, IN, MS, SC, TN
  • ☐ Check eligibility requirements for your family
Used Curriculum Sources
  • ☐ Facebook: "[Your State] Homeschool Curriculum Sale"
  • ☐ homeschoolclassifieds.com
  • ☐ eBay (search specific curriculum names)
  • ☐ ThriftBooks.com — Discounted books
  • ☐ Library book sales — Annual sales with $1-2 books
  • ☐ Homeschool co-ops — Curriculum swaps
Fill in Your State's Information
My State: _______________
ESA Available? ☐ Yes ☐ No
ESA Amount: $_____
Tax Credit/Deduction? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Amount: $_____
My Budget Decision
Budget Level I'm Starting With: _______________
Estimated Annual Cost: $_____
Funding Sources: $_____
Net Cost: $_____
My Next Steps
  1. _________________________
  1. _________________________
  1. _________________________

Remember: Cost is a choice you control, not a barrier that blocks your path. Families at every income level successfully homeschool by making choices that align with their budget and priorities. You've now got the knowledge and tools to do the same.