Deducting Job Search Expenses

If you searched for a new job in 2007, you can deduct certain of your expenses when you file your tax return, even if you didn't get a new job. You cannot deduct the expenses if you are looking for a new job in a new occupation, had a substantial lapse of time between your last job and your job search or if you were looking for a job for the first time.

You can deduct these types of fees:

* Résumé - you can deduct the cost of preparing and mailing résumés to prospective employers

* Employment agencies - you can deduct the fee if you engaged the services of an employment agency in your job search in the same occupation

* Travel expenses - If you traveled to an area to look for a new job you can deduct your travel expenses to the area and back. If you spent any of that time on personal pursuits outside of your job search, you can still deduct the portion of the travel expenses related to the job search.

Remember, these deductions only apply if you are searching for a job in the same occupation as your present job or most recent job. For more information on expenses you may be entitled to claim as deductions, refer to the IRS website.