Illinois Department of Revenue: Parents can claim back-to-school expenses

Expenses that qualify include tuition, books and lab fees. (Photo courtesy: Flickr/File)

By WJBC Staff

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Revenue is reminding parents that they may be able to claim some of their back-to-school expenses on their taxes.

The state’s education expense credit lets parents or guardians of a full-time K-through12 student take a 25% tax credit on qualified expenses over $250.

“The important thing is to remember to keep your receipts for any qualifying expenses, so they’re accessible when it comes time to file the income taxes,” department spokesperson Maura Kownacki said. “Parents invest a lot in education, so we encourage them to take advantage of the valuable savings.”

Expenses that qualify include tuition, books, and lab fees.

The total credit may not exceed $750, regardless of the number of qualifying students in the family.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected]

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