I spoke at a university and received a an honorarium, which reimbursed the flight to travel there. I received 1099-NEC, how do I write off the flight, as it wasnt income?

[emmab725]

The honorarium was $1000, and the flight was around $700. I don't know how to classify the 1099-NEC (a hobby? self-employment?), and subsequently how to write-off the $700 flight which ultimately was not part of my income.

[Vanessa A · Accepted solution]

Since you received this for performing a service, if this is done to earn money or on a regular basis, you can enter this as Self-Employment income.  When entered as self-employment income, you can deduct the flight and other expenses. 

If this is not done on a regular basis or with the intent to earn money, then it would be considered hobby or income not from self-employment.  In this case, you cannot deduct the expenses.