Not to get this thread off topic, but I think you can file long form regardless of tax bracket. I am not sure though, as I have owned my condo for the past 11yrs and have not done the 540EZ in some time. It would only seem fair that everyone can itemize deductions like uniforms and boots, medical, and schooling. Worth looking into anyways.
When I started in EMS, I had to buy everything except my pants and shirt, like most people that work for the privates. I was told to keep receipts for everything, so that I could write off the expenses. I didn't understand the tax system too well back then, so I thought that meant I would be reimbursed dollar for dollar, like a tax credit. I bought more stuff than I would ever need (my whacker stage), figuring that I could recoup the cost by claiming the expenses. I was sorely disappointed when preparing to file. My itemized deductions were maybe 30% of the standard deduction. I thought that I could double dip, as in doing the standard deduction and then applying the receipts to get even more back, but it doesn't work that way.
So, after five years of EMS employment, I was cured of buying all sorts of needless Ricky Rescue EMS crap, such as the best trauma shears, expensive scopes, a personal trauma bag for my car, a window punch, seat belt cutter, utility belts that Batman would envy, travelling for expos and conferences that aren't necessary to recert, etc. Even if my expenses totaled more than the standard, such as if I owned a home, I would only recoup 25% of my outlay, which isn't worth it.
If a $12/hr joke company can't provide mandatory classes necessary for the job, then the place isn't worth working for, unless you're simply desperate. It's not like you're in a more gainfully employed medical field, where the CEU/recert costs are more affordable.
