- quote -

I was actually thinking of the policy of an ex-employer,
which tended to be driven by what was deductible. I think
the technical term was "hostess gift" (though that's
probably been replaced with something more politically
acceptable).

Seth

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D. Stussy wrote:
- quote -

Yes, I'm sure that was the question, and further, whether he
was "allowed" a certain amount even in the absence of
actual expenditures.

When we have a two day seminar, our society includes lunch
in the price, also an abundant happy hour first night along
with copious amounts of food to counteract the copious
amounts of spirits comsumed. And of course we from out of
town stay there at the hotel, so breakfast is included. So
somehow I just can't bring myself to putting down two days
at ... 31$ ? per day. (It IS 31, isn't it?) (hmm. what
code section specifies that?)

ChEAr$,
Harlan Lunsford, EA n LA

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Harlan Lunsford wrote:
- quote -

I think what is being asked about here is "per diem" lodging
rates.

However, to claim the per diem rate, one must actually incur
a lodging expense (which may be less than the rate). Here,
the rate "incurred" is zero - i.e. there is no amount
incurred, and therefore the rate doesn't apply.

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Seth Breidbart wrote:
- quote -

Seth, are you perhaps thinking of the 25$ limitation of tax
deductible "gifts"?

I always stay at hotels when I travel for business, but if I
DID take advantage of an invite, say from an old college
buddy, old girlfriend.... (ahem, girlfriend of long
standing!......) the only thing I would think of deducting
would be the away from home meal allowance, and even then I
would pro rate that amount to allow for any free meals I was
afforded. Unless I took her out to eat, then it just might
be to cultivate a future client; you reckon?

ChEAr$,
Harlan Lunsford, EA n LA
tue 8 Feb 2005

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<garrettsinclair[at]hotmail.com> wrote:

- quote -

You can give a gift to your friend and deduct its cost. I
don't know the exact dollar limit, or if it's just
"reasonable".

Seth

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Is there any guideline for deducting a minimum amount when
traveling on business and staying at a friend's house? I
seem to recall some nominal amount was allowed to be claimed
for tax purposes.

Does anyone know the answer?

Thanks

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