Last verified: October 2026
Can a Pinellas family pay for occupational and physical therapy with scholarship funds?
OT and PT by licensed providers are therapy services an FES-UA account can pay for.
Unique Abilities (FES-UA)Eligible
Licensed occupational and physical therapy are covered services.
PEP (home-directed account)Not eligible
Not covered.
Private School Scholarship (FTC/FES-EO)Not eligible
Not covered.
Which rules apply?
- The therapist must be licensed or otherwise approved under the guide.
- Sensory tools are a separate materials category.
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?
- Medical devices outside the listed categories
What should Pinellas families know?
If a school brings a therapist on campus, ask whether it bills the session as a school fee or has the therapist invoice the account directly.
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.