California Homeschool Families: Have You Filed Your PSA? October 15 Is the Deadline!
Between choosing curriculum, teaching your children, and keeping everyday life moving, homeschool paperwork can easily slip to the bottom of the list. But this is one task worth moving to the top!
California’s annual Private School Affidavit filing period is October 1–15. For the 2026–2027 school year, the deadline is October 15, 2026. If you operate your own private homeschool, make sure this year’s filing is complete.
I want families to feel confident about both the learning and the responsibilities that come with homeschooling. Let’s walk through what a PSA is, who needs one, and why it matters.
What is a PSA?
PSA stands for Private School Affidavit. It is an annual filing submitted to the California Department of Education by people operating private schools—including parents who establish a private school in their own home.
The affidavit reports information about your school. Filing it does not mean California has approved, accredited, or licensed your homeschool. It is a required reporting step for families using this private-school option.
Do all homeschool families need to file?
Your child’s enrollment arrangement determines the answer—not simply where learning takes place.
Operating your own private homeschool: You are responsible for filing the annual PSA.
Enrolled in a public charter school or district independent study program: You do not file a separate PSA for that public-school enrollment.
Enrolled in a private school satellite program: The private school generally handles the filing. Confirm that your child is enrolled and covered.
Using California’s credentialed private-tutor exemption: This is a separate option with specific requirements.
So, being outside a charter does not automatically mean you must file your own PSA. First, confirm which educational arrangement your family is using.
Why is the PSA needed?
California requires children subject to compulsory education to attend school or qualify for an exemption. Families operating a private homeschool use the private-school exemption, and the annual affidavit is part of meeting that option’s requirements.
There are responsibilities beyond filing. Private homeschool families must provide the required subjects and maintain records, including attendance, courses of study, and information about the people teaching. Keep a copy of your filed affidavit with your school records.
What happens if you don’t file?
If you are required to file and do not, your private homeschool is missing a legally required annual filing. That can create problems establishing your child’s exemption from compulsory public-school attendance.
If your child is no longer enrolled in another school and you cannot establish a valid exemption, attendance officials may question the arrangement, potentially leading to an attendance investigation or truancy proceedings. A missed filing does not automatically mean an immediate fine or truancy finding, but it is something to address promptly. The outcome depends on your family’s circumstances and compliance with the applicable requirements.
What if October 15 has already passed?
Take a breath—and take action. The CDE’s online filing system remains available from August 1 through June 30, including for newly established schools and homeschools. If you missed the statutory October filing period, submit the required affidavit promptly rather than waiting until next October. Contact the CDE’s Private School Data office if you need help with filing.
You can find the official instructions and filing link here:
Once you submit, save your confirmation and a copy of the affidavit. Add an annual reminder to your calendar so this important task is easier to remember next year.
Let’s build a homeschool plan that supports your child
The paperwork matters, and so does what happens around your kitchen table each day. Is your curriculum helping your child build skills? Are reading or math lessons becoming a struggle? Do you need a clearer plan for moving forward?
At My Learning Farm, I offer personalized homeschool consultations to help families explore curriculum, teaching approaches, daily routines, and resources that fit their child’s needs. I’m a parent of children with learning differences, too, and I understand how much thought and heart go into these decisions.
You don’t have to figure out every part of this journey alone. I’d love to help you feel more prepared, supported, and confident as you nurture your child’s learning.
Happy learning,Sara 💛
This article provides general information about California homeschooling requirements, not legal advice. For questions about your family’s legal situation or an attendance notice, consult a qualified attorney.
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