Tax Pro Plus Winter Tax Tips: Tax Deductions for Teachers!

Did you buy supplies for your classroom?

As a small token of appreciation, teachers are allowed to deduct up to $250 on their tax return for money they spent on classroom supplies. The deduction is an "above-the-line" deduction, which means that it's an adjustment to income; filing a Schedule A,Itemized Deductions, isn't necessary to receive the benefit.

Instructors, counselors, principals and aides employed by state-approved K-12 public and private school systems are also eligible to claim this deduction. Deductible items include unreimbursed books, supplies, computer equipment and other materials used in the classroom. The items you purchase for your classroom must be considered ordinary and necessary in order to deduct the costs. But if you receive a reimbursement for the items you purchase, you may not deduct the cost on your tax return.