As the new school year approaches, many Illinois families are preparing for the financial demands that come with sending children back to school. According to recent estimates, 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 year. In Chicago, parents may pay even more—about $740 per child—which is $170 above the national average.
Experts suggest that careful planning can help reduce these expenses. Families are encouraged to create a detailed budget before shopping, listing what each child needs and categorizing expenses such as supplies, clothing, and fees. Taking stock of leftover items from previous years can also prevent unnecessary purchases.
To maximize savings while shopping, consumers are advised to look for online deals and use price comparison tools like ShopSavvy. Buying in bulk and sharing supplies with friends or neighbors is another way to cut costs.
Financial discipline should continue beyond the start of classes. Packing meals instead of buying school lunches, carpooling whenever possible, and using free resources at local libraries can further reduce annual spending on education-related needs.
Illinois residents may also benefit from the state’s Education Expense Credit. This tax credit applies to certain educational expenses for full-time students in kindergarten through high school—including those attending public, private, or qualified home schools. The credit covers 25% of qualifying expenses over $250 up to a maximum of $750 per family. Eligibility is subject to income limits: up to $250,000 Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for individuals or $500,000 AGI for joint filers. The nonrefundable credit cannot result in a refund if no tax is owed but can lower existing state tax liability.
Families interested in claiming the Education Expense Credit should keep all receipts for eligible expenditures 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.
For additional tips on saving money as the school year begins, visit The Caucus Blog at https://www.thecaucusblog.com/2025/08/ways-to-save-money-as-school-year-begins.html.
Severin, a Republican elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 116th House District after replacing David Friess, continues his work serving local families.
