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How do I claim the eligible educator school supply tax credit?

by TurboTax6 Updated 1 month ago

The eligible educator school supply tax credit has been available to teachers and early childhood educators since tax year 2016. An eligible educator can claim up to $1,000 in qualifying teaching supplies expenses. 

The tax credit rate is 25%, for a maximum credit of $250. The list of eligible expenses has also been expanded to include graphing calculators, digital timers, and remote learning tools. 

To claim this refundable credit in TurboTax, follow the applicable steps:

  1. Answer the initial Personal info and Tax profile interview questions if you haven't already. This unlocks the Tax home screen.
  2. From the Tax home screen, under Add to your return, enter eligible and select Eligible educator school supply tax credit.
  3. At the Eligible educator school supply tax credit screen, enter your amount of eligible expenses (up to a maximum of $1,000).
  1. From the side menu select DEDUCTIONS & CREDITS section in the menu > Payments profile.
  2. At the Your payments profile screen, select the checkbox for I am an eligible teacher or early childhood educator and paid for eligible school supplies during the year, then continue.
  3. At the Eligible educator school supply tax credit screen, enter your amount of eligible expenses (up to a maximum of $1,000).