Deductions and Write-Offs
The most frequently asked tax questions related to Deductions and Write-Offs
Cancer Society - charitable donation of stock
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
You are allowed to claim the stocks as a charitable deduction on IRS Schedule A subject to AGI limitations the appreciated fair market value, not the cost.
The securities must be traded on a established securities market.
The securities must be traded on a established securities market.
Political contributions - deductible?
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
No. Contributions made to political campaigns, political action committees or lobbying committees are not deductible.
Charitable volunteer work - auto expenses
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
You may deduct the actual travel expenses or a mileage allowance of 14 cents a mile on IRS Schedule A as a non-cash contribution.
Dinner dance - deductible ?
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
A donation that provides goods or services must have the fair market value of the goods or services deducted from the contribution amount.
The amount of the deduction is limited to the amount that exceeds the benefit.
The charitable deduction is limited to the amount of the donation, less the fair market value of the dinner and is deducted on IRS Schedule A contributions.
The amount of the deduction is limited to the amount that exceeds the benefit.
The charitable deduction is limited to the amount of the donation, less the fair market value of the dinner and is deducted on IRS Schedule A contributions.
Donated real estate - Appraiser fees
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
The fees paid for appraisal of donated property, such as real estate or art, are deductible as a miscellaneous deduction on IRS Schedule A subject to the 2% limitation.
Are the costs I incur to entertain business clients in my home deductible?
Asked Tuesday, September 26, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
Yes. If a business discussion occurs before, during or after the meal, then the costs of entertaining clients or business customers at your home is deductible. You should always keep a business diary listing the location, customers' names, business discussed and the date to substantiate your business expenses.
Private School Tuition
Asked Monday, September 25, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
Tuition paid for a child in first grade or higher cannot be used as a child care credit or a deduction on your tax return.
Nursery school payments
Asked Monday, September 25, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
The amount you pay for nursery school or day-care that enables you (and your spouse on a joint tax return) to earn income can be used to calculate a Child Care Tax credit.
Can I claim a deduction for the costs of transportation for my child to the day care center ?
Asked Monday, September 25, 2000 by an anonymous userCPA Answer:
No. The costs of driving a dependent to or from a day-care center, or any other transportation, are not deductible and can not be used in a calculation of a child care tax credit.