A new school year is underway in Mississippi and the IRS is reminding Magnolia State teachers that the maximum deduction for classroom expenses remains at $300.
This deduction allows educators to offset the cost of supplies, materials, and other classroom essentials, providing some financial relief for those who spend their own money to improve their students’ learning experience.
Under federal law, this $300 cap is unchanged from 2023, continuing the adjustment for inflation that began in 2022 when the limit was raised from $250.
This deduction is available for teachers, instructors, counselors, principals, and aides who work at least 900 hours a school year in a licensed facility providing elementary or secondary education. Educators filing jointly can claim up to $600 if both spouses are eligible, but no more than $300 per person.
Teachers can claim this deduction even if they take the standard deduction, and both public and private school educators qualify.
Items eligible for a deduction include:
- Books
- Supplies
- Equipment (including computers and software)
- COVID-19 safety measures such
- Masks
- Disinfectants
- Air purifiers
Educators may also deduct costs for professional development courses relevant to their teaching, though experts say it could be more advantageous to use other educational tax benefits like the lifetime learning credit.
Expenses for homeschooling or nonathletic supplies for health or physical education are not eligible. The IRS recommends educators maintain detailed records, such as receipts and canceled checks, to substantiate their deductions.
