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Top 5 Tax Tips for Back to School Expenses

August 7, 2025

The back to school season often comes with excitement and expenses. Between new clothes, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and technology needs, the costs can add up quickly. The good news is that some of these school expenses can potentially reduce your tax burden if you plan wisely. That’s why understanding parent taxes and how they apply to back to school expenses can make a big difference in lowering costs and maximizing savings during the school year.

1. Save with the Child Tax Credit and School Expenses

Parents with dependent children under 17 may qualify for the Child Tax Credit, which can provide significant savings on your return. While this credit doesn’t directly offset school supply costs, it helps lower your overall tax bill and frees up cash flow to handle back-to-school shopping.

2. Take Advantage of Dependent Care Credits

If you pay for after-school programs, daycare, or summer camps so you can work, you may be eligible for the Child and Dependent Care Credit. This credit helps offset the cost of care for children under 13, which is especially useful if your back-to-school expenses include after-school supervision.

3. Deduct Qualified Education Expenses

For parents with older children in college, the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) may apply. These credits can cover tuition, fees, and even some required course materials. Even if your child is just starting higher education, keeping receipts for books and technology purchases could pay off during tax season.

4. Shop Smart During Tax-Free Holidays

Many states offer tax-free weekends before the school year begins, allowing parents to save on clothing, school supplies, and sometimes even laptops. Mark these dates on your calendar small savings per purchase add up, and no sales tax means less out-of-pocket expense.

5. Track Technology and Extracurricular Costs

Items like laptops, internet service, and even musical instruments or sports equipment may not be fully deductible, but they can still fit into broader tax strategies if tied to education. For example, technology may qualify under education credits if required for coursework. Keep receipts organized, so you’re prepared to discuss possible deductions with your tax preparer.

Conclusion:

Back-to-school doesn’t just mean new schedules and backpacks. It’s also an opportunity to reduce your tax bill. By understanding available credits, taking advantage of tax-free shopping, and keeping good records, parents can ease the financial stress of the season.

Need help maximizing your deductions and credits? Contact Martinez Income Tax today to schedule your consultation and get ahead of next year’s tax season.

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