Work-Related Business Expenses | A Step Above Tax and Accounting

If you paid for work-related expenses out of your own pocket, you may be able to deduct those costs.

In most cases, you claim allowable expenses on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions. Here are six tax tips that you should know about this deduction.

Ordinary and Necessary

You can only deduct un-reimbursed expenses that are ordinary and necessary to your work as an employee. An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is appropriate and helpful to your business.

Expense Examples

Some costs that you may be able to deduct include:

Required work clothes or uniforms that are not appropriate for everyday use.
Supplies and tools you use on the job.
Business use of your car.
Business meals and entertainment.
Business travel away from home.
Business use of your home.
Work-related education.

This list is not all-inclusive. Special rules apply if your employer reimbursed you for your expenses. To learn more, check out Publication 529, Miscellaneous Deductions. You should also refer to Publication 463, Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses.