Maximize Your Business Deductions Travel, Gift, & Car Expenses Simplified
Based on IRS Publication 463, this interactive guide helps you understand deductible expenses, choose the best calculation methods, and stay compliant.
Step 1: The "Away From Home" Test
You can only deduct travel expenses if your duties require you to be away from home longer than an ordinary day's work, and you need to sleep or rest to meet the demands of your work.
Did your business trip require you to get sleep or substantial rest to properly perform your duties?
Step 2: Interactive Car Expense Calculator
Compare the Standard Mileage Rate vs. Actual Expenses to find your largest deduction.
Include gas, oil, repairs, insurance, registration, and depreciation.
Uses the 2024 standard mileage rate of 67 cents per mile.
Step 3: Meal & Gift Deduction Limits
These are firm IRS limits you must apply to your deductions.
Business Meals
The cost of meals with clients, customers, or for business travel away from home.
50%
Deductible Limit
Applies after removing any "lavish or extravagant" portion of the meal cost.
Business Gifts
Gifts given in the course of your trade or business.
$25
Per Person, Per Year
Incidental costs like packaging or engraving don't count toward the limit.
Final Step: Recordkeeping is Non-Negotiable
You must be able to prove your expenses. Without records, you can't take the deduction.
The 5 Elements of Proof
- 1Amount: The specific cost of each separate expense. Keep receipts for lodging and any expense of $75 or more.
- 2Time: The date you incurred the expense. For travel, list the dates you left and returned.
- 3Place: The name and location of the establishment (e.g., restaurant, hotel) or your business destination.
- 4Business Purpose: The reason for the expense or the business benefit you gained or expected to gain.
- 5Business Relationship: For meals or gifts, the name, title, or other designation of the person(s) involved.