Rockford Sun

As students across Illinois return to school, families and educators have access to tax credits aimed at reducing education-related expenses. The state offers programs that provide financial relief for parents covering school costs and for teachers who purchase classroom supplies with their own money.

Parents and guardians may be eligible for the K-12 Education Expense Credit, which allows households to claim up to $750. This credit covers 25 percent of qualified expenses above $250, such as tuition, book rentals, and lab fees paid directly to a school. Home-schooling families may also qualify if their expenses are tied to an approved curriculum. In the previous year, nearly 200,000 families benefited from this credit, with an average savings of $324 per family.

Educators can apply for the Instructional Materials and Supplies Credit. Full-time K-12 teachers, aides, counselors, and principals who work at least 900 hours during the school year can claim up to $500 in credits. Married couples filing jointly who are both educators may receive up to $1,000. In 2024, more than 81,000 Illinois educators used this credit and collectively saved over $35 million.

State Senator Dave Syverson commented on these tax credits: "These tax credits are a practical way to help ease the financial burden of a new school year and encourages families and teachers to keep their receipts and file for the relief they deserve."

For further details about these programs or eligibility requirements, individuals can visit tax.illinois.gov or review IDOR Publication 112.

Syverson has served as a Republican member of the Illinois State Senate since his election in 1993 to represent the state's 35th Senate District (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Syverson), succeeding Christine J. Johnson.