If you’re a K-12 teacher, principal, counselor or aide at a state-certified school, don’t forget about the educator expense deduction. In general, you can deduct up to $300 ($600 for married couples filing jointly if both spouses are eligible educators) of unreimbursed expenses on your 2025 income tax return, even if you don’t itemize deductions. Expenses may include books, supplies and equipment. Unreimbursed costs for professional development also may be eligible. A new miscellaneous itemized deduction for educator expenses also will be available for 2026 expenses. Be sure to keep receipts and good records of your eligible expenditures.
