Representatives Kiel and Fabian Remind You to Save Back to School Receipts

The cost of purchasing back-to-school supplies can quickly add up for families, and Rep. Dan Fabian, R-Roseau, and Rep. Deb Kiel, R-Crookston, are urging people to save receipts and take advantage of tax benefits that can provide some relief.  Minnesota has both a credit and a subtraction for education expenses. Both programs reduce the tax parents pay and could provide a larger refund when filing state income tax returns for 2018. Qualifications apply and expenses must be for children attending kindergarten through 12th grade at a public, private, or homeschool.

“As cooler weather days begin and back-to-school time fast approaches for families across Northwest Minnesota, I’d encourage folks to remember there are ways to save on education-related costs come tax time next spring,” said Rep. Fabian. “School supplies can quickly add up, and this can mean real savings for hardworking families.”

School supplies which qualify for the credit or subtraction include writing utensils, textbooks, musical instrument rentals, tutoring and computer hardware/educational software. Common items that do not qualify for the subtraction or credit include school lunches, uniforms, and backpacks. Parents are encouraged to check the Department of Revenue website (https://www.revenue.state.mn.us) to determine which expenses qualify.  While the education subtraction is not subject to income limits, the credit is limited to households with incomes less than $37,500 for families with one to two children, $39,500 for families with three children, and adding $2,000 per child for families with four or more children. The Department of Revenue indicates that last year more than 37,500 families took advantage of the education credit, saving an average of $241. More than 186,000 families took advantage of the education subtraction.

“As a mom, I know how expensive back-to-school shopping can be for families, and I’d encourage folks to take full advantage of our state tax benefits to save money on school-related expenses. Saving your receipts with your other tax documents can mean substantial savings for many folks in our community,” concluded Rep. Kiel. “Feel free to contact my office if you have questions about the programs or need more information. I am here to serve you!”

In addition to the information on the Department of Revenue’s website, both Rep. Kiel and Rep. Fabian welcome constituents to contact their legislative offices if you have additional questions.