Information taken from irs.gov
If you paid for work-related expenses, you may be able to deduct those costs.
- Ordinary and Necessary. You can only deduct unreimbursed expenses that are ordinary and necessary to your work as an employee. An ordinary expense is an expense that is common and accepted in your industry. A necessary expense is one that is appropriate and helpful to your business.
- Expense Examples. Some costs that you may be able to deduct include:
- Required work clothes or uniforms that are not appropriate for everyday use.
- Supplies and tools you use on the job.
- Business use of your car.
- Business meals and entertainment.
- Business travel away from home.
- Business use of your home.
- Work-related education.
This list is not all-inclusive and special rules apply if your employer reimbursed you for your expenses.
- Educator Expenses. If you are a K through 12 teacher or educator, you may be able to deduct up to $250 of certain expenses you paid for in 2014. These may include books, supplies, equipment, and other items used in the classroom. You claim this deduction as an adjustment on your tax return, rather than as an itemized deduction. This deduction had expired at the end of 2013. A recent tax law extended it for one year, through Dec. 31, 2014.
- Keep Records. You must keep records to prove the expenses you deduct.
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