Tax Deductions.

[shinypurple]

I live in North Portland and commute to my job downtown every day. It's only about six miles. The commute killed my old bike--well, that and getting hit by a car during said commute--so in 2007 I built up two commuter bikes for myself. I had to fly to cross country for a seasonal job and heard that I can claim my airfare as a deduction because it was required for work. I'm wondering, as my bike is definitely a transportation necessity, if I can claim the parts and/or labor that went into it in my deductions. Logic seems to dictate that I could, but I don't want to accidentally do something illegal. I think it would be fair to describe me as a tax rookie. I have no experience creating lists of deductions and so forth and could definitely use some help. Thanks!

[Schrauf]

If you are only commuting to a regular job site, there is no deduction available, just like there is no deduction if you were commuting with a car.

The answer gets much more complex if you are self-employed, or travel between multiple job sites.

Keep in mind if your itemized deductions (primarily state taxes and mortgage interest for most people) are not greater than your standard deduction, there is no benefit anyway...

[shinypurple]

This information, though mildly disappointing, will be very helpful to me in the coming months. So thanks!