Jeff Keicher, Illinois State Representative for 70th District | Official Website
Jeff Keicher, Illinois State Representative for 70th District | Official Website
As the school year approaches, many Illinois families are facing high costs associated with back-to-school preparations. Expenses such as tuition, activity fees, supplies, and clothing can quickly add up.
According to national data, families with students in kindergarten through twelfth grade are expected to spend an average of $858.07 per household on clothing, shoes, school supplies, and electronics. This is about $17 less than last year but remains a significant amount. In Chicago, the estimated cost per child is $740 this year—$170 more than the national average.
To manage these expenses, families are encouraged to start by making a detailed budget before shopping. Listing out each child's needs and categorizing expenses can help avoid unnecessary purchases. Reviewing what supplies remain from last year may also reduce extra spending.
When it comes time to shop for essentials, using online deals and price comparison apps like ShopSavvy can lead to savings. Buying in bulk and sharing with friends or neighbors may further cut costs.
Savings opportunities extend beyond initial purchases. Packing meals instead of buying school lunches, carpooling when possible, and using free resources at local libraries are additional ways families can save throughout the school year.
Illinois residents may also benefit from the state's Education Expense Credit if they have a full-time student in kindergarten through high school at a public, private, or qualified home school. The credit applies to certain education expenses such as tuition and book fees paid directly to schools. It equals 25% of qualified expenses over $250 up to a maximum of $750 per family. Income limits apply: up to $250,000 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), or $500,000 AGI for joint filers. The credit is nonrefundable but can reduce tax liability owed.
Families interested in claiming this credit should save receipts for qualifying expenses and file Schedule ICR with their Illinois state tax return. More information is available on the Illinois Department of Revenue’s Education Expense Credit page: https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/programs/EducationExpenseCredit/Pages/default.aspx
Keicher, a Republican who was elected in 2018 to represent Illinois’ 70th House District after Robert W. Pritchard stepped down, continues efforts related to educational policy in the state.
###
Alerts Sign-up