Some of my coworkers have caught me preparing taxes for filing the next year. A significant number of expenses connected to personal self-care (such as a cruise, candles, vet bills, Cedar Point, etc.) are being written off. Will they be in trouble or will I miss out?
We all work as social workers, and our licensure code of ethics is as follows, so that supports them. Social workers practice in a way that is consistent with the profession’s goal, values, ethical standards, and ethical principles, which they are constantly aware of. Social workers need to look after their personal and professional needs. Legally speaking, we have to abide by that or risk losing our jobs and licenses.
My girlfriend is employed by the police force. Many of her coworkers told others about the opportunity to deduct purchases of equipment, clothes, etc.
The truth is that unreimbursed work expenses are not tax deductible as of the TCJA. However, when they bring their stack of receipts to the CPA, the CPA is pleased to accept them and give the impression that they are making progress. I can guarantee you that nothing is truly written off if the individuals you are referring to are employees rather than independent contractors. They merely believe that way.
A TV news anchor I worked with believed he could deduct his wardrobe and haircuts as business expenses, but I told him every year that the IRS doesn’t allow personal expenses to be written off. People who say otherwise either misunderstand tax law or are committing fraud. The tax code doesn’t allow personal deductions on business returns. For example, Stevie Nicks and a member of Elton John’s band both tried to deduct performance outfits, but the Tax Court denied them. The rule is clear: inherently personal items, like clothes and haircuts, aren’t deductible, unlike uniforms or specialized work gear.
Although it’s legally obligatory for you to arrive at work fully clothed, your wardrobe is not tax deductible. Anything that your employer mandates does not automatically qualify as a tax-deductible. On your income, you owe taxes. It’s time to look for another work if your current employer’s pay isn’t sufficient to cover the expenses you must make to maintain your position.
They will be destroyed if audited. They just haven’t been apprehended yet. It resembles Walmart’s self-checkout false scanning. It appears to be a lifesaver—until you’re discovered.