Can I Deduct Cleaning, Dry Cleaning & Haircuts?

[NewbyPChef]

I have someone come clean my house every other week. If I purposely schedule them to come the day I am having a show at my house would that be deductible or is that bending the rules? Also, what about dry cleaning expenses and things like haircuts since we are in front of people and it is important for us to look good. I know my friends who sell clothes and jewelry deduct these things. Is it a stretch to think we should also be able to deduct these things? Don't want to do anything unethical so I thought I'd ask first.

 

[Leanna]

I'd ask an accountant... my director when I sold jewelry always deducted her acrylic nails/manicures. I don't think I'd try it because think about teachers or other professions in front of people all day- they don't deduct those things. They aren't really business expenses.

 

[pampered1224]

I think you would be hard pressed to explain those types of deductions if you were to get audited. I asked my tax guy about my wardrobe. I can deduct logo wear but not slacks or anything NON-PC even if I never wear them for anything but shows. He said clothes unless they have the logo, cosmetics, hygiene or beauty expenses are a no go in an audit. You can deduct it now if your tax will let you but if you get an audit summons, watch out.