Transportation Stipend

The Transportation Stipend is an annual stipend  provided by the state of Florida to eligible families with K–8 students attending a public school other than their assigned district school. 

What You Need to Know

• Eligible households get a $750 stipend per school year to help cover travel costs.
• Even if you have more than one eligible student living with you, your household can only receive one check per year.
• Once approved, the Florida Department of Education sends the funds to Step Up For Students. You will receive a one-time check mailed directly to your physical address. Checks cannot be sent to a P.O. Box.
• The stipend cannot be combined with other state scholarships.

Qualifying Schools

• Charter School
• Development Research School operated by a state university
• Magnet School operated by a school district
• Public School participating in district’s open enrollment policy

Eligibility & Rules

To get the stipend, you must apply online every year using Step Up for Students Education Marketplace (EMA) portal.

• You must upload a document showing your child goes to the qualifying school or proof of enrollment. This can be a letter on school letterhead, a screenshot of your online grade portal, or a progress report.
• Make sure your legal name, email, and mailing address are completely accurate in your EMA account. Your check is made out to the name on the account.
• Funding is limited by the state budget. Households that received the stipend last school year get first priority for funding each year. Any remaining spots are given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

How to Apply