Are you a healthcare worker or first responder? TurboTax offers special discounts for nurses, EMTs, and first responders through partnerships with organizations like ID.me, eligible individuals can receive up to 20% off TurboTax federal products. A similar discount is available through affiliates like TaxDeals.org, and you don’t even need to be verified as a nurse or First Responder.
Here’s what nurses and First Responders should know about getting the best deal on TurboTax this tax season.
TurboTax Discounts for Nurses, EMTs, and First Responders
Good news! TurboTax often offers discounts specifically for nurses and first responders, recognizing the vital role you play in our communities. These discounts can save you up to 20% on TurboTax federal products. Here’s how to access these deals:
Referral Programs
Another way to save is through TurboTax’s referral program. If you refer another nurse or friend to TurboTax, you’ll earn a $25 gift card once they complete their filing. Plus, your friend gets up to 20% off TurboTax products. It’s a win-win!
Verify Your Eligibility Through ID.me
TurboTax partners with ID.me, a secure platform for verifying your professional credentials. First responders, nurses, and other eligible professionals can confirm their status on the ID.me Shop website. Once verified, you’ll unlock exclusive discounts on TurboTax products plus other deals reserved for verified healthcare professionals and first responders. Tip: Sorry, nursing a beer doesn’t qualify!
Sign Up for Early Bird Offers
TurboTax frequently provides early-season discounts, which are available to all users. Filing your taxes earlier not only ensures you save on the cost of the software, but also means you’ll get your refund sooner. Keep an eye on the TurboTax website for seasonal promotions.
Of course, the best way to save big money during tax season is to get every possible deduction.
Special Tax Deductions for Nurses and First Responders
Consider that a single missed deduction could cost you hundreds of dollars! TurboTax is great for helping professionals like you uncover deductions and credits specific to your line of work. If you are a first responder, EMT, or nurse, here are a few key deductions and benefits to consider:
1. Nursing Uniform and Equipment Expenses
If you’ve purchased nursing or uniforms for First Responders, scrubs, or safety equipment that aren’t reimbursed by your employer, these expenses might be deductible. This also applies to cleaning costs for work uniforms.
2. Continuing Education in Nursing
If you’ve taken nursing or other courses for first responders, attended workshops, or pursued certifications to maintain or enhance your skills, those costs may be tax-deductible. Two primary ways to claim these expenses are:
- Lifetime Learning Credit: This deduction allows nurses to claim up to $2,000 in education expenses, including courses, whether you’re pursuing a degree or just maintaining your nursing license.
- Work-Related Education Deduction: If the courses are directly related to your current job, you may be able to deduct these costs as unreimbursed employee expenses, though this option is only available if you itemize. Remember to keep receipts for tuition, books, and supplies.
3. Mileage and Travel
Nurses and first responders who travel between different work sites may be able to deduct mileage costs. TurboTax helps calculate this automatically if you provide the necessary details.
4. Home Office Deduction
If you worked remotely as a nurse or first responder for part of the year, you might qualify for a home office deduction, as long as the space is exclusively used for work.
5. Union or Professional Dues
If you’re a member of a professional association or union, your dues are often deductible.
Nursing Student Loan Interest Deduction
Many nurses are paying off student loans, and the Student Loan Interest Deduction can provide some relief. If you’re eligible, you can deduct up to $2,500 in student loan interest, which reduces your taxable income. This deduction applies even if you take the standard deduction, so it’s worth claiming if you meet the income requirements.
Tip: Make sure you have documentation from your loan provider that shows how much interest you paid throughout the year.
Helpful Tax Tips for Nurses and First Responders
Doing your taxes shouldn’t start in April, so here are a few tips for staying on top of your taxes as a healthcare professional or first responder:
- Stay Organized Year-Round
Keep a dedicated folder for tax-related documents, like W-2s, receipts, and mileage logs. This will save time when you sit down to file. - Use TurboTax’s Guidance Features
TurboTax walks you through tax deductions and credits specific to healthcare professionals including nurses and first responders. The step-by-step process ensures you won’t miss out on eligible savings. - Consider Itemizing Your Deductions
While the standard deduction is often the easiest route, itemizing can sometimes result in greater tax savings. TurboTax helps you compare the two to see which option benefits you most. - Leverage TurboTax Live
Don’t miss a single deduction related to your role as a nurse or first responder! If you have questions or need more personalized advice, TurboTax Live connects you with tax professionals who can guide you through the process or even review your return before you file.
Thanks for being an unsung hero and for visiting PrettySweet.com! I hope we were able to help you get the best possible discount on TurboTax this tax season.