Can I write off my $1,000 course fee for getting my license to coach crossfit?

[patrickcrowder]

I recently went down to Colorado to take a level one training cert to be able to train others for Crossfit. It cost me $1,000 and since it help move me forward in my secondary job at Crossfit Lander, I was wondering if I am able to write off that expense?

[MichaelMc · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately, no. Education that prepares you for a new trade or business, or to meet the minimal educational requirements for your current trade or business, is not deductible for tax purposes.

For more information, please see IRS Tax Topics 513 Work-Related Education Expenses.

[MichaelMc]

Your original question was phrased in such a way that my first impression was that teaching Crossfit is a new occupation for you. However, if you are already working as a personal trainer or fitness coach and are adding the Crossfit certification to increase your range of skills and services that you offer to customers, then the cost of this certification would be a deductible expense. If you are an employee, the expense would be an Employee Business Expense, deductible on Form 2106. If you are self-employed, the expense can be taken on Schedule C.

[MelissaTX]

I have the same question... basically since the certification is required to instruct crossfit, can I write it off as part of my start up costs?

[Carl]

@MelissaTX you've posted in a thread that is over 3 years old.

Effective starting in 2018, W-2 job related expenses are no longer deductible.

If you are self-employed, education expenses to maintain your skills are deductible only if required to maintain qualifications necessary for you to remain licensed in the business. Expenses to improve or increase your skills are deductible if it actually adds to the services your business can offer.

Education expenses incurred to get a certification to start a new business are not deductible at all.