Eligible educators may be able to deduct qualified expenses they paid in 2019 when they file their 2019 tax return. Taxpayers qualify for this deduction if they meet the following criteria:
- Teach any grade from kindergarten through twelfth grade
- Work as a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide
- Work at lest 900 hours during the school year
- Work in a school that provides elementary or secondary education
Qualified expenses include:
- Books
- Supplies
- Professional development courses
- Computer equipment including related software and services
- Supplementary materials
- Athletic supplies only for health and physical education
Educators employed by a school may qualify to deduct up to $250 of unreimbursed expenses. If two qualified educators are married and file a joint return, the amount goes up to $500. Neither spouse can deduct more than $250 of qualified expenses when they file.
If you need tax preparation assistance and would like to speak to an attorney, call our law office at 816-524-4949 or visit our website at Hoorfarlaw.com