Last verified: October 2026
Can a Pinellas family pay for laptops, tablets and computers with scholarship funds?
Only one Florida program pays for a computer: the Unique Abilities Scholarship, once every two years.
A computer (laptop, desktop or tablet) once every two years; replacing it sooner requires pre-authorization.
Computers are not an authorized PEP expense.
Computers are not a Private School Scholarship expense.
Which rules apply?
- FES-UA: one computer every two years; an earlier replacement needs pre-authorization, and orders placed before the two-year mark are denied.
- Monitors, headsets, printers and speakers carry their own once-every-two-years limit under FES-UA.
- The device has to support the student's education, and rules apply.
What is allowed and what isn't
| Allowed | Not allowed | |
|---|---|---|
| Unique Abilities (FES-UA) | Yes | — |
| PEP (home-directed account) | — | Yes |
| Private School Scholarship (FTC/FES-EO) | — | Yes |
What is excluded?
- Any computer bought with PEP or Private School Scholarship funds
- A second FES-UA computer inside two years without pre-authorization
What should Pinellas families know?
When a Pinellas child with a diagnosis could use either PEP or FES-UA, the computer rule tips the comparison toward FES-UA.
How is it paid?
Look in Step Up's marketplace first, then pay an approved provider directly from the account; otherwise pay by card, keep the itemized receipt and request reimbursement. Anything not clearly eligible needs pre-authorization before you buy.
Related questions
Summary only, not legal advice; your scholarship organization's handbook controls.