IRS Cracks Down On Travel And Meal Deductions: What Expenses Won’t Fly In 2025
The IRS is set to tighten its review of travel and meal deductions in 2025, warning taxpayers that inflated or unsupported write-offs could trigger audits or penalties.
Experts say the move reflects the agency’s broader effort to curb abuse of business expense claims – an area often cited as a red flag in small business tax filings.
“Travel and meal deductions remain some of the most misunderstood tax write-offs,” said a spokesperson for Clear Start Tax. “The IRS is zeroing in on vague or excessive claims, especially those that look more like personal perks than legitimate business expenses.”
According to Clear Start Tax, expenses such as first-class airfare for non-business companions, extravagant meals without documented business purposes, or vacation travel disguised as client meetings are likely to face tougher scrutiny.
“If you can’t show a clear business connection and keep proper records, the deduction won’t hold up,” the spokesperson added.
Tax professionals also warn that the IRS’s expanded use of technology makes it easier to spot questionable claims.
“The agency is leveraging data analytics to flag patterns in spending that don’t align with industry norms,” Clear Start Tax explained. “Taxpayers who stretch the rules should expect closer examination in 2025.”
For small business owners and freelancers, the message is clear: document carefully, separate personal and business expenses, and stay within IRS guidelines to avoid costly surprises.
Source: Palm Beach Post
