Odyssey is a technology platform that administers Education Savings Account (ESA) programs for multiple states, providing families with a digital wallet to manage and spend state education funding on approved expenses like curriculum, tutoring, and tuition.
What is the Odyssey ESA Platform?
Odyssey is a mission-driven technology company that serves as the administrative platform for ESA programs in several states. Think of it as a digital wallet for education funds—state money is deposited into your account, and you use the platform to purchase approved educational products and services or submit reimbursement requests. Founded in 2021 and backed by Andreessen Horowitz, Odyssey currently manages over $225 million in funding for more than 115,000 students across participating states.
Key Takeaways
- Administers ESA programs in Iowa, Texas (launching 2026-27), Utah, Georgia, Louisiana, and Wyoming
- Provides digital wallet for purchasing from approved vendors or requesting reimbursements
- Funds deposited quarterly (typically July, October, April)
- Receipts must be itemized and submitted within 30 days of purchase
- Both direct vendor payments and parent reimbursements are supported
How Odyssey Works for Families
States Using Odyssey
Eligible Expenses
While specific allowable expenses vary by state, most programs cover private school tuition, homeschool curriculum and textbooks, online learning subscriptions, tutoring services, educational technology and software, testing fees, and educational therapy services. Some states also permit transportation, vocational training, and specialized learning tools. In Iowa specifically, tuition must be covered first before remaining funds can be spent on other marketplace items. Always verify your state's guidelines before making purchases.
Submitting for Reimbursement
When you purchase from an approved vendor outside the marketplace, you'll need to submit a reimbursement request. Receipts must be itemized (showing individual items, not just totals), include the vendor's business information, display the transaction date and payment method, and be legible—handwritten receipts aren't accepted. Upload one document per request through your Odyssey account, complete the attestation, and electronically sign. The Odyssey team reviews and processes reimbursements, depositing funds to your linked bank account.
The Bottom Line
For families in states using Odyssey, the platform simplifies what could be a complicated funding management process. The marketplace approach means less paperwork when purchasing from approved vendors, while the reimbursement system provides flexibility for other qualified expenses. Understanding your state's specific rules—especially around spending priorities and eligible expenses—helps you maximize your ESA funds. Keep documentation organized, submit receipts promptly, and use the support resources at support.withodyssey.com when questions arise.
