Claim per Diem for Out of Town Shows?

[pc_momof3]

Hello,
I'm wondering if we can claim a per diem rate when we travel to different towns to do shows? The one town in particular that I travel to several times a month is 90 miles each way, but I do not stay overnight (except once due to bad weather when I stayed with a relative). Does anyone know if I can claim a per diem rate? What I have been doing is if I grab some fast food on the way back home is just save the receipt and put it under the 50% deductible category for taxes. What do others do for per diem ? Thanks!

 

[Admin Greg]

Unfortunately, you may not be able to claim a per diem rate. Generally, you must be traveling away from home overnight in order to qualify for a per diem. That said, you may be able to deduct some of your expenses as unreimbursed employee expenses on your taxes. For example, you can deduct meal costs while traveling, as well as any other necessary travel expenses. Be sure to keep all your receipts and consult with a tax professional to determine which expenses you can deduct.

 

[Admin Greg]

Per diem rates are typically only applicable for overnight travel or when an employee is away from their tax home for a substantial period of time. If you are not staying overnight in the town you are traveling to, it is unlikely that you can claim a per diem rate. Instead, you can deduct your actual meal expenses as a business expense on your taxes. However, it is recommended that you consult with a tax professional for specific advice on deducting business expenses.