Can employees deduct any job-related expenses?

Most tax filers cannot deduct job-related expenses when filing their tax return, due to changes made in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). However, there are small categories of occupations that can claim this credit. In addition, self-employed individuals can claim work expenses.

If you're an armed forces reservist, a qualified performing artist, fee-basis state or local government official, or have impairment-related work expenses, you can claim job-related expenses.

If you fall into one of these categories, you can deduct qualifying expenses. The job-related expenses must have been made within the tax year, must have been business-related to your job as an employee, and must have been necessary.

Additionally, if you’re self-employed or own your own business, you don’t qualify for job-related expenses, but may have business expenses you can deduct from your tax return. Some common self-employment deductions include the home office deduction, mileage, travel expenses, or deductions for work-related equipment or gear.