Travel Expenses

How much can I deduct for travel expenses when calculating income tax?

Business travelers are allowed to deduct their nonreimbursed travel expenses on their tax forms when itemizing deductions. For 2005, the federal per diem rate, the amount you are allowed to deduct, is $60 per night for lodging and $31 for meals and incidentals. This rate is a "default" amount, so if you are staying in a more or less expensive area, you may be able to deduct more. Visit www.gsa.gov/portal/category/1047110 for more information on specific locations. These rates took effect on October 1, 2004.