hobbes79

Getting ready to do my taxes in the next couple of weeks, and this just occurred to me.

My I-751 application costs $545. I'm not permitted to work without doing that (it's a little more complicated than that, but that's the vague idea). So if it's a cost incurred by me to allow me to work, is that a tax decuctible expense?

I know someone in the past who used to claim road toll charges since the toll roads formed his route to work. The costs were basically incurred as a result of him working.

My immigration costs are basically incurred as a result of me working in the US.

Does the same concept apply? Anyone ever done it?

Longy

To my knowledge immigration expenses are considered personal expenses and are not deductible.

rincewind

I was able to deduct certain fees one year when I was self employed as it was related to a business expense.

If you are not self employed then, no.

hobbes79

Oh well, worth a try.

(I'm not self employed)

Thanks for the responses

britgalusa

So if you are self-employed, does this mean you can!?

Both my husband & I are self-employed and about to shell out for an Unconditional GC - so I would love to know!

Bob

Just for the EAD I believe...

britgalusa

Thanks for confirming Bob

Errol

Interesting question.

I don't think immigration fees are deductible, but consider this:

Divorce costs aren't deductable, but I know the part that can be segregated for tax planning and the finances are deductable! Child support isn't deductable, but if the degree allocates $x for child support and $y for alimony, then the alimony portion is deductable to the "giver" and taxable income to the "receiver"

I would think immigration wouldn't be as clear cut either.

A thought, as a self employed individual, would the IRS on audit claim the immigration fees were inappropiately allocated to the business schedule instead of being allocated to personal?

On the other hand, if the self employed (or an incorporated entity) sponsored an future employee would the IRS on audit allow the deduction?

Immigration fees can be substantial and it's possible the IRS rulings have published regulations on this matter. This is a matter for the professionals specializing in this matter

Errol

basementwaj

Shipping costs for your belongings are deductable.... according to my tax people...

scrubbedexpat099

Can be deductible.