Florida
Opted in on January 28, 2026
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Ron DeSantis
Governor , R
“Florida families have access to the nation's top ranked and largest school choice program. About 1.4 million students are enrolled in school choice options in Florida.”
Governor Ron DeSantis, January 28, 2026 (Governor's Office press release)
EFTC Status in Florida
Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida's opt-in on January 28, 2026, during a National School Choice Week event.
Great news!
Florida has opted in to the Education Freedom Tax Credit.
Gubernatorial announcement during National School Choice Week event at Grace Christian School in Valrico, FL.
Step Up for Students announced creation of the Step Up, Step Further Scholarship Fund to administer the federal program.
EFTC Readiness Checklist for Florida Schools
Florida has opted in to the EFTC. Use this 7-step checklist to prepare your school for participation.
Confirm Eligibility
Verify your school is an eligible K-12 institution (private, religious, or homeschool cooperative) under EFTC program rules.
Identify SGOs
Research which Scholarship Granting Organizations operate in Florida. Contact them to understand application processes and timelines.
Estimate Family Eligibility
Use the EFTC Income Eligibility Calculator to estimate how many of your families fall within the 300% median income threshold.
Open CalculatorPrepare Documentation
Gather documentation of qualifying educational expenses: tuition, fees, tutoring, curriculum materials, and educational therapy costs.
Designate a Coordinator
Assign an EFTC coordinator to manage scholarship applications, SGO partnerships, and family communications.
Develop Communication Plan
Create materials to inform families about EFTC eligibility, the application process, and covered expenses. Plan for information sessions and one-on-one support.
Build SGO Relationships
Establish relationships with at least one SGO before the application window opens. Understand their requirements, reporting expectations, and disbursement timelines.
Recent News
Governor DeSantis announced Florida opts into the education freedom tax credit.
January 28, 2026 · Governor's Office press release
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Florida has opted in. Explore eligibility tools and school readiness resources to make the most of the Education Freedom Tax Credit.
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