Can I deduct the cost of car rental and public transportation to travel to speaking engagements without an overnight stay? If so, where do I list it?

[Tom10]

I am a self-employed, freelance illustrator and author who works in a home studio. Up to 20 times per year, I rent a car or take a train to conduct workshops and presentations at different schools and return home in the same day. I do not own a car. Can I still deduct this expense in TY 2018? If so, where and how do I describe it? The Business Travel category seems to apply only to overnight stays.

[JulieR · Accepted solution]

Yes.  If you switch to the Forms view, you can enter the rental car on Schedule C, Line 20a - Rent or lease payments on business property not owned by you (e.g. machines, equipment,......). (see screenshot below) 

You can list expenses for the use of public transportation as an "Other Expense" line item on your Schedule C.