Tax Tips Fast Facts

$515,436

That's the amount of money educators have taken out of their pockets for school supplies so far this year, according to NEA data compiled from educators across the country.

Some of that money may qualify for a tax deduction. Here's what you need to know, from the IRS.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU DEDUCT?

Educators who work in schools may qualify to deduct up to $250 of unreimbursed expenses. That amount goes up to $500 if two qualified educators are married and file a joint return. However, neither spouse can deduct more than $250 of his or her qualified expenses when they file.

$740

@Adopt_classroom

On Average, #teachers spend $740 out of their own pocket each year to provide #classroom supplies for their students. 28% of teachers spend more than $1,000 annually. #OutOfMyPocket

@TeacherSalaryProject

WHO QUALIFIES FOR THE DEDUCTION?

Are a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, aide or teach any grade from kindergarten through twelfth grade Work at least 900 hours during the school year Work in a school that provides elementary or secondary education

Every year I budget $1,000 for my classroom supplies: tissues, paper towels, markers, cleaners, pencils, erasers, folders, binders, glue, hole punchers, whiteout, staples, tape, Post-It's, flash cards...#OutOfMyPocket #RaiseTeacherPay

WHAT IS A QUALIFIED EXPENSE?

Professional development courses Books Supplies Computer equipment including related software and services Supplementary materials Athletic supplies only for health and physical education