Idaho has introduced a new law allowing families to receive up to $5,000 per student for qualified education expenses, which can include private school tuition.
In Boise, Idaho has released additional details on how families can qualify for the newly passed school choice tax credit ahead of the upcoming academic year.
Known as the “Idaho Parents Selected Tax Credit,” or House Bill 93, the law was signed by Governor Brad on February 27, 2025. Under this bill, families may qualify for up to $5,000 per student for eligible education-related expenses, with the amount increasing to $7,500 for students with disabilities.
Many families in Idaho are curious about their eligibility for these tax credits, prompting the Idaho Tax Commission to enhance their website with FAQs. This includes examples of eligible expenses, timelines for the program, and a note that only full-time Idaho residents can qualify.
The FAQ covers everything from how to apply to what types of schools can be covered and other requirements.
The committee has earmarked $50 million for these tax credits, prioritizing low-income families for the first year of the program.
In the following years, those who previously received credits will be given first priority, followed by families whose incomes fall below a certain threshold.
Idaho families are invited to join several scheduled webinars to learn more about the program. For further details regarding the tax credits, the Idaho State Tax Commission website has more information.
Despite strong opposition, schools’ choice tax credits pass
HB93 was passed by both the Senate and House on February 19 and was sent to the governor for his approval. The Idahonian reached out to the governor’s office, requesting that he not sign it.
Records show that 32,366 Idahoans contacted the governor’s office to urge against the bill. The support for the $50 million tax credit program was significantly higher at a ratio of over 6 to 1. The governor’s office noted that duplicate phone numbers were not counted in this tally.
The governor defended his choice, emphasizing his commitment to public education. He stated that his administration has funneled nearly $17 billion into the K-12 public school system and has increased public school funding by almost 60% in just a few years.
