How do I claim certifications for work? What about my uniform and gas mileage?

[quejones77]

I am a personal trainer. And I had to get certifications for my job that I have to pay out of pocket.

[MargaretL]

It depends... if you have paid the certification to become a trainer, they are not tax deductible. The IRS does not allow a deduction for certification that prepares you for a new trade/job.

If you have been a trainer already and got the certification to improve your skills, you can deduct them.

If you are an employee, you can deduct them as job-related expenses:

1. Federal Taxes
2. Deductions & Credits (you may have to select See all tax breaks)
3. Employment Expenses
4. Job-Expenses for W2 Income

If you are self-employed, the costs are your "business" expenses:

1. Federal Taxes
2. Wages and Income
3. Business Items, Select Business Income and Expenses - follow the interview questions; you would report the income as if you own a business; you will be able to enter your income and expenses