The teacher expense deduction is located under the personal tab of TurboTax Self-Employed. Switch to that tab, then go to Deductions & Credits>Job Related Expenses>Teacher Expenses.
If you teach kindergarten through grade 12 in a public or private school and you personally pay unreimbursed, out-of-pocket expenses for books, supplies, and other materials you use in the classroom, you can claim a deduction for up to $250. The deduction is an "above the line" deduction. This is more beneficial than most deductions because it takes up to $250 directly off your taxable income. You do not need to itemize your deductions on Schedule A to claim this deduction.
Eligibility requirements
- You must be a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide in kindergarten through grade 12.
- You must work at least 900 hours per school year.
- Expenses you can write off include books, supplies, computer equipment and software, and other equipment and supplementary materials you use in the classroom.
- The expenses must be considered common, accepted, and appropriate for your job as an educator.
