Figures Introduces Legislation to Provide Tax Break to Parents for Children's Academic and Athletic Activities

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) introduced the Affordable Youth Enrichment Opportunities Act, a bill to provide a federal tax deduction for parents who pay out-of-pocket expenses for enrichment opportunities for their children.

Many parents across Alabama work hard to provide academic, athletic and artistic enrichment opportunities for their children, only to find those opportunities increasingly expensive. While federal tax law provides some relief for certain childcare and school expenses, families receive no comparable federal tax deduction for the costs of extracurricular activities.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to pursue activities that help them reach their full potential regardless of their family's financial circumstances," said Congressman Figures. "Whether it is tutoring, youth sports, or training in the arts, such as music, theater, or dance, families are facing growing costs to help their children gain the valuable lessons and benefits of extracurricular activities. I'm proud to introduce this bill to give parents a well-deserved tax break to help ensure that more children have access to activities that shape character, build skills, and prepare them for future success."

Under the Affordable Youth Enrichment Opportunities Act, eligible parents who itemize their deductions and pay out-of-pocket expenses for qualified academic, athletic or artistic enrichment activities for their children can claim a tax deduction up to $5,000 a year. Eligible parents may claim the deduction if their modified adjusted gross income for the year does not exceed the applicable threshold amount, which ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, depending on filing status.

Click here to read the bill text.

Click here to read the one-pager.

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