Can work tools be a tax deduction?

Question

my husband just started a new job in may but we're trying to organize & itemize tax deductions for next year... especially with the crappy economy. he was given an itemized list of tools to buy - about $2,000 worth for an avionics/aircraft electrician job. he also had to buy $200 steel toed/osha approved boots. can we save these receipts for next year??

Answer 1

yes you can as they are work related

Answer 2

It is my understanding that in order to deduct expenses for tools, that you must be an indempendent contractor. You know this because your employer gives you a Misc.-1099 at the end of the year. Your husband would be resonsible for his own taxes. To deduct any type of clothing, it should be clothing that normally would not be worn outside of the work place. Which I think that the shoes would qualify. You can call and check with the IRS directly to be sure. Call 1-800-829-1040 and tell them your situation. They will direct you to the department that will correctly answer this question for you. But from what you asked, I believe that his tools will be a tax writeoff.  I hope this helps you.

Answer 3

Yes those are tax deductions.  But to get any benefit you have to itemize, and you can only deduct the amount that's over 2% of your adjusted gross income.

Answer 4

Yes you can. You can deduct any number of things. I did my taxes using Tax Cut this year and it had pages on stuff I never knew i could claim. Down to pants for work, transportation costs and even down to shoes and goggles. If these deductions are more than your standard deduction, then definitely keep track of everything. From aprons to gas mileage you can claim it all for work.

Answer 5

1.  Save the list he was required to buy.

2.  Save all receipts.

3.  Document which items have a useful life of one year or more.

Note, you depreciate the tools, they are reduced by 2% of your AGI, only help your taxes if you can itemize, etc.

Answer 6

Yes, you can attempt to write off these expenses subject to the 2% limit of Adjusted Gross Income.

Do a search on www.irs.gov for unreimbursed employee expenses for more information.