Educator expenses for Instructor?

[colcol17]

I teach as an instructor at a community college.  Am I an eligible educator? 
IRS definition of an Eligible educator:

"An eligible educator is a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal,

or aide in school for at least 900 hours during a school

year."

The term "instructor" follows "kindergarten through grade 12 teacher," but is it limited to elementary and secondary? There are both counselors and instructors at community colleges.  Does the IRS include us community college instructors? I sure have a lot of expenses which I purchased unreimbursed for my students' benefit.

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[MichaelDC · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately, all occupations (teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide) most be the elementary or secondary realm. It seems your job doesn't fit in that category. However, it's still deductible to you under itemized deductions, but need be included with other deductions like mortgage interest, property tax, donations and state income tax.

Please feel free to post any additional details or questions in the comment section.

As an instructor, you may be able to deduct certain unreimbursed expenses that the IRS considers "ordinary and necessary" to do your job. That would include things like:

• Union dues
• Books/Magazines
• Art Supplies
• Office Supplies
• Computer Hardware
  
• Software
  
• Tools
• Dues or subscriptions to professional societies
• Licenses
• Travel and meals for business, including DOT per diem
• Home office
• Educator expenses
• Education that either maintains or improves job skills or is required to keep your salary or job.

Employees can't deduct mileage or commuting costs between their home and main workplace, but they can between jobs.

Job-related expenses aren't fully deductible as they're subject to the 2% rule.

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