How to Write-Off a Business Conference – Career

Are you considering going to a conference this year like SALON TODAY’s Data-Driven Salon Summit?  Thinking about the costs?

Let’s talk about what that conference really costs when you consider the tax benefits of the expenses.

The short answer is most expenses related to conference travel are deductible as long as you can show that your attendance benefits your business.

What does that mean? 

Let’s use the example that you spend $1,000 total on your business trip. Do it right and it really costs you on an average $750. That’s a savings of 25%!  Of course, this varies based on your personal tax-bracket, but you get the point.

But wait…. the IRS has some rules on how to make sure these deductions aren’t disallowed if they come knocking for an audit. Documenting the business purpose and keeping receipts if the expense is over $75 are two examples. In most cases, the credit card statement is not enough documentation. 

Here are some examples of deductible travel expenses:

1. Travel by airplane, train, bus or car between your home and the conference.
2. Fares for taxis or other types of transportation between:

   1. The airport and your hotel.
   2. The hotel and the conference location.
   3. To and from a business meal.

3. Shipping of baggage.
4. Using your car while at the conference: You can deduct actual expenses or the standard mileage rate, as well as business-related tolls and parking fees. If you rent a car, you can deduct only the business-use portion for the expenses.
5. Lodging – must have a detailed list of charges.
6. Non entertainment-related meals.
7. Dry cleaning and laundry.
8. Tips you pay for services related to any of these expenses.

Remember if employees travel with you and request reimbursement of their expenses you must have an Accountable Plan document in place and gather the required documentation from them to reimburse them and deduct the expenses.

Join us at Data-Driven Salon Summit on May 5-6 in Denver, Colorado, collect your tax write-off and drop by Kopsa Otte’s table to ask April McDaniel any of your tax-related business questions. 

Disclaimer: Because every situation is different, it is important that individuals seeking specific advice contact a professional advisor.  The information provided does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice and is offered as an information service only. No liability whatsoever is assumed in connection with the use of this information.

Originally posted on Salon Today