My probation officer told me that I can write my monthly payments off on taxes. how do I do that?

[xmasbaby0]

Monthly payments for what exactly?

[dirtybirdmic]

Probation monthly payments that go to the state for being on probation

[IsabellaG]

That's most likely not true. What are the monthly payments for? If it's child support, you can't deduct that. If it's for a fine or other restitution, that's not deductible either. 

[Randyj2007]

I had to fill out a pile of paperwork today for my parole officer.  It specifically stated to be sure to save receipts for parole fees because they can be used when filing state income taxes. However,  it did not state which category to claim the deduction. Many years ago I  filed taxes for an inmate on work-release. He was cut 25% of his gross income for his fees. He got a large refund on taxes which was great for his family.  When I  filed an amendment for previous years the deduction was disallowed. My assumption is that it gets left up to untrained individuals.  My argument is that it is a rehabilitation service same as drug or alcohol rehabilitation or other medical expenses.  Regardless of personal opinions fees regarding incarceration are an unequal burden on the individual and cause an additional burden on the families. This is a contributing factor in the success or failure of an already reduced employability.  

[Randyj2007]

I highly recommended you read this... https://www.eitcoutreach.org/outreach-strategies/reentry/

[Randyj2007]

https://law.justia.com/codes/alabama/2016/title-15/chapter-22/article-1/section-15-22-2

[Critter-3]

Since this is a state only deduction then look for it in the state interview ...  for Alabama it seems to be a write in deduction so  does your paperwork tell you exactly how/where on the AL  Sch A this is a deduction ???  

https://revenue.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/19f40bk.pdf

[Critter-3]

May I also suggest you call a local tax office in AL  and ask them where on the AL tax form this is addressed.