We all love a summer getaway, but what if your trip doubles as a tax-deductible opportunity? If you’re self-employed or travel for business, some of your travel expenses may be tax deductible—if you plan correctly.
What Counts as Business Travel?
The IRS defines deductible business travel as expenses incurred while away from your “tax home” (typically the city where you primarily work) that are ordinary and necessary for your trade or business. This can include:
Airfare, train tickets, or mileage for your vehicle
Hotel stays
Meals (up to 50% deductible)
Baggage fees and airport parking
Wi-Fi, phone bills, and business-related tips
Mixing Business and Pleasure
Want to squeeze in some beach time after a business conference? That’s okay—but you’ll need to separate personal expenses from business ones. If the primary purpose of your trip is business, you can still deduct travel to and from the destination, even if you stay a few extra days on your own dime.
Travel for the Self-Employed
If you’re self-employed, you’re in luck: your business trips are often more flexible when it comes to deductions. You’ll just need to document the business purpose (meetings, networking, research, etc.) and keep detailed records.
What You Should Track
Receipts for lodging, meals, transportation, and internet
Notes on the business purpose of your trip
A detailed itinerary or meeting schedule
✈️ Make your summer travel work for your business—and your taxes.
📞 Call us at (678) 675-4268 or schedule your consultation here: 👉 https://ilovedoingtaxes.net/schedule-now/
