I’m a Blogger. Can I Deduct Conference Registration Fees, Travel and Meals?

Do conference registration fees, travel and meals count as deductions? Yes, as long as they’re blog-related, they count.

If you’re here reading about taxes you’re probably aware that you can deduct expenses to help lower the amount you owe in taxes. The real question is how much and what can you deduct legally? And what do you need to do to track or keep record of these deductions.

The simplistic way of looking at potential deductions is that if it relates to or promotes your blog you can deduct it.

Conference Registration Fees

Conference registration fees for a blog conference where you network and learn to improve your blog can be deducted.

Licensing Fees

Licensing fees, as long as they pertain to your blog topic, can be deducted as well. (i.e. You blog about hairstyles and you pay a licensing fee to maintain your stylist license)

Training

In addition, any additional training you receive, as long as it pertains to your blog or the topic you blog about is considered a valid deduction as well. So the cost of that online class you’re enrolled in about SEO, or the crash course you’re taking in graphic design so you can start that design blog you’ve always dreamed about – well, those are deductions as well.

Print and file receipts, or if you’re really organized, start a simple spreadsheet with date, purchase amount, who you paid, and what it was for. Still stash your receipts so you have them as proof if by chance you’re audited.

Travel & Meals

Travel and meals are also deductions if they’re related to your blog or business. Keep receipts for bus passes, plane tickets and taxi cabs. Even keep a mileage book of your travels if you are often driving to consult with clients, picking up product from a vendor, or making trips to the post office to ship product to clients.

Coffee & Drinks

Coffee dates and drinks for business meetings or to meet with potential clients, are also deductions – again, a receipt stash and a simple spreadsheet will make your life that much easier come tax time.