SE Illinois News

As Illinois families prepare for the new school year, many are looking for ways to manage the rising costs associated with back-to-school expenses. According to national data, households with students in kindergarten through twelfth grade are expected to spend an average of $858.07 on items such as clothing, shoes, supplies, and electronics this year. This figure is about $17 less than last year but remains high. In Chicago, parents may face even higher costs—about $740 per child—which is $170 above the national average.

Families across Illinois may find their back-to-school budgets stretched more than usual this season. To help ease these financial pressures, experts recommend starting with a detailed budget that outlines each child’s needs for the school year. Categorizing expenses and taking inventory of leftover supplies from previous years can help avoid unnecessary purchases.

When it comes time to shop, using online resources and price comparison apps like ShopSavvy can lead to savings before heading out to stores. Buying in bulk and sharing supplies with friends or neighbors are also suggested strategies for reducing overall spending.

The need for cost-consciousness continues beyond the first day of class. Packing meals instead of buying school lunches, carpooling when possible, and utilizing free resources at local libraries are practical steps families can take throughout the academic year.

Illinois residents may also benefit from the state’s Education Expense Credit. Families with full-time students in kindergarten through high school—including those attending public, private, or qualified home schools—may be eligible for a tax credit on certain education-related expenses such as tuition and activity fees paid directly to schools. The credit covers 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) for individuals or $500,000 AGI for joint filers. The credit is nonrefundable but can reduce any tax owed.

To claim this credit, taxpayers 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.

Windhorst, a Republican who was elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 117th House District after replacing Natalie Phelps Finnie, serves as one of several legislators informing constituents about ways to save during back-to-school season.