Travel expense to promote an educational event

[Mahayatrika]

I attended a university event that was arranged to promote an educational program. I was not reimbursed and did not have any personal gain. Is the travel expense (airline, hotel, and car rental) tax deductible?

[DawnC]

Not unless you are self-employed and the trip was business related.  

[Mahayatrika]

Thanks. I am retired. And i did this to help out my professional organization which is 503(C). Does it make a difference?

[VictoriaD75]

Unfortunately, no. There are no personal deductions for business-related travel, even if it is to benefit a nonprofit organization. 

@Mahayatrika 

[Mahayatrika]

Thanks for the reply. How would this be different if I travelled to help out a charitable organization? I am just curious.

[Hal_Al]

Q. Would this be different if I travelled to help out a charitable organization?

A. Yes. See https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-tipss/oc-tips-for-charity-travel.pdf

[Mahayatrika]

Thanks. That is what I thought too.