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New Member
posted Jun 4, 2019 6:33:17 PM

I am a Volunteer Firefighter in Ohio. Can I claim any expenses? If so, what?

Can I claim mileage? Uniforms/gear? What?

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3 Replies
Employee Tax Expert
Jun 4, 2019 6:33:18 PM

Yes. as a volunteer firefighter, you can deduct any expenses incurred during service, such as buying your own equipment & gear, mileage, etc., as a charitable contribution on Schedule A. 

The IRS standard mileage rate for charitable activities is 14 cents per mile (2017).

Google: "Firefighter Deductions PDF" for a comprehensive worksheet.

Also, ask your volunteer firefighter association about state tax benefits. Some states offer a tax credit to those that become volunteer firefighters.

New Member
Feb 9, 2024 12:55:57 PM

I understand you can deduct these expenses, but where exactly do you enter them on Sch A.  I have not found a question in TurboTax that asks about expenses required for volunteer work, such as firefighter, police reserve etc.

Expert Alumni
Feb 9, 2024 1:08:52 PM

You can claim these in federal>deductions and income>donations to charity 2023. Things like mileage, parking and tolls, trips, uniforms and out-of-pocket expenses can be claimed as volunteer expenses.