Teachers could deduct up to $2,000 in classroom supplies under proposed law

A Michigan lawmaker says teachers should be able to claim some of their out-of-pocket costs for classroom supplies on their state tax returns.

Rep. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) says teachers aren’t getting the respect they deserve – or the financial support.

Irwin has introduced a bill that would let them claim a tax credit of up to $2,000 for items they buy for their classrooms.

It would include everything from books, computers, and art supplies – even prizes and awards for their students.

“Many of them take their hard-earned money out of their pocket to help make their school successful," Irwin says. "The least we can do is to respect their contribution with some tax relief."

K-12 teachers, aides, instructors and principals can already take deductions for school supplies up to $250 on their federal returns.

The tax credit will apply only to educators who itemize deductions.