I work in another city, 400mi from my residence, two weeks out of the month. I rent an apartment there which I use exclusively for a permanent job. I travel by car and plane.
I do have a small business that produces <10% of my income, and also use this space for that. But the majority of my work there is for my permanent employment.
Can I deduct rent, travel, food, utilities from federal taxes?
I live in WA and don't have state taxes.
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Yes, for the expenses that relate to your small business, which we assume is your self-employment. No, if the other expenses have been incurred in connection with your work as an employee. If you are an employee and incur work related expenses which you pay out-of-pocket, which appears to be the case here, those expenses are considered unreimbursed employee expenses and are no longer tax deductible.
If your "permanent employment" is also self-employment, then the expenses associated with such work would also be deductible. To be deductible, a business expense must be both ordinary and necessary. An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business. An expense does not have to be indispensable to be considered necessary.
@crouthmr
Q. I do have a small business that produces <10% of my income, and also use this space for that. Can I deduct rent, travel, food, utilities from federal taxes?
A. No, unless the small business activity requires you to be at the 400 mile away location. Examples: meeting clients, doing construction.
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