Is Conference & Event Travel Tax Deductible? Yes — Here's How to Claim It
100%
Deductible
Line 24a
Schedule C
Travel
Category
Travel expenses to attend industry conferences, trade shows, and professional events are fully deductible business expenses for self-employed individuals and single-member LLCs. The IRS allows these costs when the primary purpose is business-related, including airfare, hotels, meals, and ground transportation. This deduction can add up quickly, especially if you attend multiple events annually.
Who qualifies?
Self-employed individuals, sole proprietors, and single-member LLCs filing Schedule C can claim conference and event travel expenses. The event must be directly related to your business or profession, and your primary purpose must be business-focused rather than personal or leisure.
How to claim it
- 1 Gather receipts for all travel-related expenses: flights, hotels, rental cars, taxis, parking, and tolls.
- 2 Calculate total travel costs and enter the amount on Schedule C, Line 24a (Travel).
- 3 Keep detailed records documenting the conference/event name, dates, location, and business purpose for IRS substantiation.
Pro tip
Meals and entertainment at conferences are deductible but only at 50% (or 100% if certain temporary rules apply). Separate meal receipts from hotel and transportation receipts to ensure you're claiming the correct percentage and avoiding audit risk.
Source: IRS Publication 463: Travel, Gift, and Car Expenses
Judy automatically tracks Conference & Event Travel
Connect your business bank account and Judy categorizes Conference & Event Travel charges to Travel (Line 24a) — no spreadsheets, no manual entry. Get a free 30-day audit first, then subscribe.
Get your free audit