Last verified: October 2026
Can a Birmingham family pay for private tutoring with a CHOOSE Act ESA?
Yes. Private tutoring in approved subjects, including any supply fee the tutor charges.
CHOOSE Act ESA, enrolled ($7,000)Approved expense
Private tutoring in approved subjects, including any supply fee the tutor charges.
CHOOSE Act ESA, home education ($2,000)Approved expense
A core use of the $2,000 account.
Accountability Act SGO scholarshipNot payable
Not a tuition expense.
What rules apply to private tutoring?
- The tutor must be an approved ESP: accredited, holding a bachelor's degree, or state-certified, and cleared by a background check.
- The tutor registers with ClassWallet and is paid through Pay Vendor; invoices must list the service dates and type of service.
- A parent cannot be paid as the ESP for their own child.
What counts and what doesn't
| Counts, under these rules | Doesn't count |
|---|---|
| The tutor must be an approved ESP: accredited, holding a bachelor's degree, or state-certified, and cleared by a background check. | Tutor transportation charges |
| The tutor registers with ClassWallet and is paid through Pay Vendor; invoices must list the service dates and type of service. | Payments to unregistered tutors or cash payments |
| A parent cannot be paid as the ESP for their own child. |
What does this look like in Jefferson and Shelby counties?
ALDOR's ESP list dated October 23, 2026 shows 86 tutoring or microschool providers with a Jefferson or Shelby County city on file.
Source: ClassWallet, CHOOSE Act Alabama Parent Guide 2026-2027; CHOOSE Act (Act 2024-21). A summary, not legal advice; ALDOR's rules and ClassWallet's review decide each purchase.