Can a mechanic deduct the cost of his tools on his taxes if he is employed by an auto shop?

Answer 1

As an auto technician for over 20 years (not as a tax professional), I have found that even though I have itemized I seldom had enough work related expenses (tools) to be able to use as a deduction. Unless you spend a large enough amount of money or if you are self employed you may be better off using the standard deduction. Yes, You can claim anything you spend on work, If your HOURLY,SALARY,or CONTRACT, But, Keep in mind that if your an hourly worker and you claim A lot of stuff on your taxes that puts up A RED FLAG at the IRS. and you could be AUDITED, so keep your reciepts,,,,,, Good luck, Jamison. Your pay arrangement, that is hourly or salaried, is irrelvant and it certainly isn't "anything" you spend. You can deduct only unreimbursed employee expenses (Line 20 form 10, line 9 form 1040R) that are: 1. Paid or incurred during your tax year, 2. For carrying on your trade or business of being an employee, and 3. Ordinary and necessary. An expense is ordinary if it is common and accepted in your trade, business, or profession. An expense is necessary if it is appropriate and helpful to your business. An expense does not have to be required to be considered necessary. You may be able to deduct the following items as unreimbursed employee expenses. As all misc. deductions, they are generally subject to the 2% floor. Business bad debt of an employee. Business liability insurance premiums. Damages paid to a former employer for breach of an employment contract. Depreciation on a computer or cell phone your employer requires you to use in your work. Dues to a chamber of commerce if membership helps you do your job. Dues to professional societies. Home office or part of your home used regularly and exclusively in your work. Job search expenses in your present occupation. Laboratory breakage fees. Legal fees related to your job. Licenses and regulatory fees. Malpractice insurance premiums. Medical examinations required by an employer. Occupational taxes. Passport for a business trip. Repayment of an income aid payment received under an employer's plan. Research expenses of a college professor. Rural mail carriers' vehicle expenses. Subscriptions to professional journals and trade magazines related to your work. Tools and supplies used in your work. Travel, transportation, entertainment, and gift expenses related to your work. Union dues and expenses. Work clothes and uniforms if required and not suitable for everyday use. Work-related education.