The educator deduction for out-of-pocket classroom expenses started as a temporary tax law provision in 2002. Primary and secondary schoolteachers could deduct up to $250 of the unreimbursed cost of books, supplies, computer equipment, and supplementary materials used in the classroom. In 2015, the deduction was made permanent. In 2016, the deduction was expanded to cover professional development expenses and was indexed for inflation.
Even with indexing for inflation and before the pandemic, $250+ a year did not put much of a dent in teacher spending. COVID-19 safety needs have made classroom expenses spike, just like other work environments. In June 2020, AdoptAClassroom.org surveyed U.S. educators to ask about classroom expenses during distance learning. It was not shocking to learn that teachers spent an average of $745 for classroom supplies in the 2019-20 school year. Almost half of the responding teachers reported spending more because of distance learning.
The COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020 expanded the educator deduction further to help teachers afford the challenges of distance learning and returning to the classroom. Here’s what you need to know about the expanded educator deduction:
- Who is Eligible for the Deduction?
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 during the school year. Services must be performed in a school that provides elementary or secondary education as determined under state law.
- What Safety Items Qualify?
COVID-19 protective items include, but are not limited to face masks, disinfectant, hand soap and sanitizer, disposable gloves, physical barriers like clear plexiglass, air purifiers, and other items recommended the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
- When Can Safety Items be Included?
Qualified expenses include the amounts that you pay or incur after March 12, 2020, for personal protective equipment, disinfectant, and other supplies used for the prevention of the spread of coronavirus. The deduction is for expenses paid or incurred during 2020 are deductible on your 2020 federal tax return.
Still not sure if you or someone that you know is eligible for the expanded educator deduction for COVID-19 safety items? Read more details at https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc458.