Due to limited school budgets, teachers often use their own money to buy classroom supplies. Fortunately, eligible educators may be able to defray up to $300 in qualified unreimbursed expenses when they file their tax returns. If two qualified educators are married, filing jointly, the amount increases to $600; however the $300 maximum applies to each individual.
Taxpayers qualify for this deduction if they:
- Are a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide for students in kindergarten through 12th grade
- Work at least 900 hours during the school year
- Work in a school that provides elementary or secondary education
Qualified expenses include:
- Professional development courses
- Books
- Supplies
- Computer equipment including related software and services
- Supplementary materials
- Athletic supplies only for health and physical education
Qualified expenses also include amounts spent on personal protective equipment, disinfectant, and other supplies used for the prevention of the spread of coronavirus.
Eligible taxpayers can claim this deduction on Schedule 1 (Form 1040) when they file their taxes. Teachers should keep records tracking their qualified expenses incurred throughout the tax year. Additional information is available on the IRS website. See our related posts below for information about other deductions available to reduce taxes.
Please contact the GYF Tax Services Group at 412-338-9300 if you need assistance with unreimbursed education expenses or other tax issues.
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