Can the cost of private schooling be deducted?

by TurboTax •   1067
Updated January 8, 2026 12:15 PM

Private school costs (K-12) don't qualify for any education deductions or credits on your federal tax return. However, some states do allow deductions for K-12 education or homeschooling expenses. If you live in one of those states, we'll ask you about it when we get to your state return.

If your child attends a daycare program before or after school, at either a public or private school, you could be eligible for a child care credit. In some cases, private school tuition for students with special needs may qualify for a medical deduction.

Tax assisted distributions from a 529 plan can be used for qualifying expenses from public, private, or religious elementary or secondary (K-12) schools.

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