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Level 1
posted Mar 8, 2024 5:34:37 AM

Can a public speaker deduct clothing worn on-stage?

My wife is an independent public speaker, hired by clients to get on stage and give speeches to their employees.  Can she deduct clothing that she wears on-stage as a business expense?

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1 Best answer
Employee Tax Expert
Mar 8, 2024 5:39:04 AM

No.  In order to deduct clothing as a business expense, it must be specialized clothing such as a uniform or something that she would not be able to wear somewhere else.  If they can double as street clothes, a night out on the town or office wear, it would not be deductible. 

1 Replies
Employee Tax Expert
Mar 8, 2024 5:39:04 AM

No.  In order to deduct clothing as a business expense, it must be specialized clothing such as a uniform or something that she would not be able to wear somewhere else.  If they can double as street clothes, a night out on the town or office wear, it would not be deductible.