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What can I deduct for work?

September 15, 2006

Date:  Tue, 25 Jul 2006
From:  Dawn

1. Please confirm that mileage for commuting to and from work isn't deductible.
2. Can a new car used mostly for work be deducted?
3. Can I claim a tax deduction for dry cleaning for career apparel?

Answer

Date:  02 Aug 2006

Hello Dawn,

1. Right. Mileage for commuting is non-deductible.
2. Deductions for automobiles are severely restricted. There is an IRS publication on the subject. (See Publication 463 at the IRS web site, http://www.irs.gov.) If you're just using the car for commuting and other personal use, no deduction is allowed.
3. Dry cleaning is allowed if there is a special uniform for your career, like for police, firepersons, security guards, nurses and for medical doctors' lab coats. Dry cleaning is not allowed for "street wear" career clothing, like suits for CPAs and attorneys.

Good luck!

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