How do I deduct job seeking expenses for positions I didn't get? I.e. interviewing, meals

[fremainsmur]

How do I deduct general job seeking expenses while I was unemployed? I.e jobs that required expenses for interviewing, meals, etc. that I did not get

[MargaretL]

Job-hunting expenses are tax deductible even if you haven't found a position at the end.

You can claim the expenses in the Job-Related Expenses section. They are part of your itemized deductions:

1. Federal Taxes

2. Deductions & Credits, Jump To Full List

3. Scroll down to Employment Expenses

4. Select Job-Related Expenses

Note: The expenses are subject to 2% of Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) - only the amount that exceeds the 2% of AGI threshold is actually deducted. If you are not itemizing (have mortgage interest, real estate tax, charitable contributions etc.) the job hunting expenses will not make a difference on your tax refund.

The expense include:

a. Employment and outplacement agency fees.

b. Amounts you spend for preparation and mailing copies of a resume.

c. Travel expenses if the trip is primarily to look for a new job.

For more information, please refer to the IRS publication 529.