Homeschooling in Illinois

Legal Framework

Illinois is one of the most homeschool-friendly states in the country. Homeschools are treated as private schools under Illinois law, and private schools in Illinois operate with remarkably little regulation. The relevant statute is 105 ILCS 5/26-1, the compulsory attendance law, which provides that children between the ages of 6 (by September 1) and 17 must attend a public school or a "recognized private or parochial school" or be otherwise "provided with instruction" in the branches of education required in the public schools.

The landmark 1950 Illinois Supreme Court case People v. Levisen established that a home can qualify as a private school under Illinois law, as long as the instruction is at least equivalent to that offered in the public schools.

Step-by-Step: How to Start Homeschooling in Illinois

1. No notification required. Illinois does not require you to notify any government agency, school district, or the state board of education before you begin homeschooling. There is no registration, no filing, and no approval process.
2. Withdraw your child (if currently enrolled). If your child is in a public or private school, formally withdraw them. Contact the school office and request a withdrawal form. Keep a copy for your records.
3. Teach the required subjects in English. Illinois law requires that you provide instruction in the branches of education taught to children of corresponding age and grade in the public schools, and that this instruction be given in the English language.
4. Begin teaching. There is no waiting period and no start date requirement. You can begin homeschooling at any time during the school year.

Required Subjects

Illinois law requires instruction in the "branches of education" taught in the public schools. The Illinois State Board of Education identifies these as:

• Language arts
• Mathematics
• Biological and physical science
• Social science (social studies)
• Fine arts
• Physical development and health

All instruction must be provided in the English language. You can teach additional subjects and languages, but the core instruction must be in English.

Teacher Qualifications

Illinois does not require homeschool parents to have any specific educational qualifications. Only public school teachers are required to hold teaching certificates under Section 21-1 of the Illinois School Code. Homeschool parents need no degree, certificate, or formal training.

Hours and Days

There are no mandated numbers of hours per day or days per year for private schools (including homeschools) in Illinois. You set your own schedule.

Record-Keeping

Illinois does not require you to maintain or submit specific records. However, keeping attendance records, samples of student work, and a log of subjects covered is strongly recommended. These records are useful if you ever need to demonstrate compliance, re-enroll your child in a school, or apply to colleges.

Important Notes

While Illinois does not require notification, if a truancy officer or school district contacts you, you should be prepared to demonstrate that you are providing a bona fide educational program. Having a written curriculum plan, attendance records, and student work samples on hand will help resolve any inquiry quickly.

Illinois K-12 Education Expense Credit

Illinois offers a state tax credit for K-12 education expenses, and homeschoolers may qualify. The credit is worth 25% of qualifying expenses over $250, up to a maximum credit of $750. Qualifying expenses include tuition, book rental fees, and lab fees. Your household income must be below $500,000 (married filing jointly) or $250,000 (single filer) to claim this credit.

Note that not all homeschool expenses qualify -- the credit was designed primarily for traditional school expenses. Curriculum materials, textbooks, and similar educational resources may qualify, but general supplies may not. Consult a tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program

The Educational Choice for Children Act (part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed July 2025) created a federal tax credit scholarship program. Taxpayers can claim a dollar-for-dollar credit of up to $1,700 per year for donations to certified scholarship-granting organizations. These organizations award scholarships to K-12 families with incomes up to 300% of the area median income.

For homeschoolers, scholarships can cover curriculum, textbooks, online courses, tutoring, technology, and special-needs services. However, Illinois families can only benefit if Governor Pritzker opts the state into the program. As of February 2026, the question will appear on ballots in at least 24 Illinois counties during upcoming elections, but the governor has not yet opted in.

529 Plan Benefits

As of 2026, federal law allows up to $20,000 in annual withdrawals from 529 accounts for qualified K-12 education expenses, including a broader range of homeschooling expenses than previously recognized. Illinois residents can deduct 529 contributions from state taxable income.

Free Resources

Illinois public libraries are excellent resources for homeschoolers, offering free access to books, digital media, databases, and educational programs. Additionally, many museums and cultural institutions across the state offer homeschool-specific programs, discounts, or free admission days.