Psychology Licensure for volunteer work

[Kurtis86305]

I am retired but volunteer for the Red Cross's Disaster Mental Health services and the Red Cross requires that my psychology license is maintained and up to date, which requires license renewals and ongoing education.  Can I deduct these expenses,  and if yes, where in TurboTax do I includes these deductions?

[DawnC]

No.  If you were self-employed, you could deduct licensing fees on Schedule C.   But there is no deduction available if you are a volunteer for a charitable organization or a w-2 employee.

Charity Volunteer Tax Deductions  

What’s Not Deductible? 

• The value of a volunteer’s time or services 

• The value of free use of a volunteer’s space or equipment.

Deductible Volunteer Expenses 

• Buying and cleaning uniforms not suitable for non-volunteer use 

• Travel expenses incurred on behalf of the charity 

• Lodging and meal costs when a volunteer is away from home overnight. 

Vehicle Deductions 

• The actual cost of gas and oil OR 

• Statutory rate of 14 cents a mile 

• The cost of parking and tolls can be deducted

[Bsch4477]

Since you receive a personal benefit from obtaining the license I doubt that the expense would pass muster by the IRS as a charitable deduction. 

[Hal_Al]

Q.  Can I deduct these expenses?

A. Yes, but only if your volunteer work is the only reason for the license and continuing education. You cannot even be making a little income from you psychology practice. 

Q if yes, where in TurboTax do I include these deductions?

A. You enter them as charitable contributions, an itemized deduction.  You enter the expenses as cash contributions. 

[Kurtis86305]

Thank you for your a swear, but I'm not sure I understand.  What personal benefit would I receive?  

[Hal_Al]

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