Items That Will Never Be Reimbursed

Some purchases are not eligible for reimbursement regardless of intent or explanation. These restrictions ensure compliance with program guidelines. Please review carefully before submitting expenses.

Unrelated or Personal Use Items

Anything not clearly tied to the student's approved education plan
General household items (e.g., furniture, rent, utilities, cleaning supplies)
Essential living expenses (e.g., clothing, food, transportation, fuel, and utility bills—excluding internet, which is not considered a utility)
Gift cards or pre-paid debit cards
Amusement park tickets, theme parks, or general entertainment
Recreational equipment (e.g. basketball shoes)
Playground equipment
Payment to a family member for services
Freeze dryers
Plants (e.g. bonsai trees)
- Note: While we may be able to approve seeds related to your student's learning, grown plants are not reimbursable.
Collectors cards
- Note: Basic Pokemon cards (limited to one pack per student) and other trading cards may be reimbursable, but collectors cards are not.
General storage containers
- Note: Pencil pouches or small desktop organizers used to hold school supplies may be eligible for reimbursement.

Non-Educational or Non-Student Services

Parent-focused training or classes
Home gym machines or fitness equipment for general family use

General Eligibility Restrictions

Instruction or classes in June or July (outside the academic year)

State-Specific Information

Minnesota

Includes specific restriction on instruction or classes in June or July (outside the academic year)

Additional Minnesota Restrictions

Instruction or classes in June or July (outside the academic year)

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of household items are not eligible for reimbursement?

General household items such as furniture, rent, utilities, cleaning supplies, and essential living expenses like clothing, food, transportation, fuel, and utility bills are not eligible for reimbursement. Internet is not considered a utility and may be eligible under certain circumstances.

Can I get reimbursed for recreational equipment or entertainment expenses?

No, recreational equipment (like basketball shoes), playground equipment, amusement park tickets, theme parks, and general entertainment are not eligible for reimbursement as they are not directly tied to educational purposes.

Are there any restrictions on buying cards like Pokemon cards?

Collectors cards are not reimbursable. However, basic Pokemon cards (limited to one pack per student) and other trading cards may be reimbursable, but collectors cards specifically are not eligible.

Can I pay family members for educational services and get reimbursed?

No, payments to family members for services are not eligible for reimbursement under the program guidelines.

What about storage containers and organizational items?

General storage containers are not eligible for reimbursement. However, pencil pouches or small desktop organizers specifically used to hold school supplies may be eligible for reimbursement.