Teachers for 2016 and onward can now claim a 15% tax credit on school supplies purchased in the year, up to a maximum of $1,000 purchased in the calendar year.
In order to claim this tax credit:
- the teacher must have a valid certificate in the province where employed; or
- the teacher must have a certificate or diploma in early childhood education that is recognized in the province where employed.
The supplies must be used in a school or a regulated child care facility for teaching or helping students learn, not reimbursable and the supplies are not deducted in calculating any person’s taxable income.
- Examples of supplies include:
- Construction paper
- Flashcards
- Items for science experiments
- Art supplies
- Writing material
- Games and puzzles
- Books for the classroom
Caution as the CRA may ask for a certification signed by the teacher’s employer that attests to the amount paid for eligible teaching supplies purchased in the year.
This is a great tax credit for teachers given the cost they invest in students each year.
If you want additional information in relation to the tax credit, please contact me.