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Are out of pocket education expenses tax deductible?

Yes, but the max deduction is $250. Each taxpayer that is an eligible educator can deduct up to $250 of qualified educator expenses that are paid out of pocket by the educator.

Qualified expenses are amounts you paid or incurred for participation in professional development courses, books, supplies, computer equipment (including related software and services), other equipment, and supplementary materials that you use in the classroom. For courses in health or physical education, the expenses for supplies must be for athletic supplies.

You’re an eligible educator if, for the tax year you’re a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide for at least 900 hours a school year in a school that provides elementary or secondary education as determined under state law.


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