This is the first time the annual limit has increased since the special educator expense deduction was enacted in 2002. For tax years 2002 through 2021, the limit was $250 per year. The limit will rise in $50 increments in future years based on inflation adjustments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For 2022, an eligible educator can deduct up to $300 of qualifying expenses. If they\u2019re married and file a joint return with another eligible educator, the limit rises to $600. But in this situation, not more than $300 for each spouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who qualifies?<\/strong> What’s deductible?<\/strong> Qualified expenses don\u2019t include the cost of home schooling or for nonathletic supplies for courses in health or physical education. As with all deductions and credits, the IRS reminds educators to keep good records, including receipts, cancelled checks and other documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reminder for 2021 tax returns being filed now: Deduction limit is $250<\/strong> Need tax help? Call our office at 816-524-4949 or click here<\/a> to schedule a consultation.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue Service reminds teachers and other educators that they\u2019ll be able to deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2022 when they file their federal income tax return next year. … Continue reading
Educators can claim this deduction, even if they take the standard deduction. Eligible educators include anyone who is a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide in a school for at least 900 hours during the school year. Both public and private school educators qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Educators can deduct the unreimbursed cost of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For those who received a tax filing extension or still need to file a 2021 tax return, the IRS reminds any educator still working on their 2021 return that the deduction limit is $250. If they are married and file a joint return with another eligible educator, the limit rises to $500. But in this situation, not more than $250 for each spouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n