Taxes
 

I'm new to the airline world and am curious as to what we can and can't write off. Can we write off our cell phones, parking costs, tips etc.... I also bought a laptop for the road and am curious if I can write that off.

The other big question I have is whether or not I should find a CPA that specializes in doing taxes for airline pilots? I'm sure some folks here are familiar with Total Investment Management in Phoenix. They recommended "Taxes Plus, INC" in Scottsdale? Any feedback is surely appreciated. Cheers..

Patch

I have been using Pilot Tax for several years now and have been very happy.

www.pilot-tax.com

They send you a workbook that spells everything out, will file your federal and state if applicable and direct deposit your return. The base fee is about $190, and for me has been well worth it.

Try
pilot-tax

317-984-7666

have used them for years

Thanks a lot!! I'll give them a shout..

Mike

Try AviatorTax.com.....I have used Susannah for the last six years and am very happy with her. She will make sure you get all the deductions due to you as an Airline Pilot but is not "shady" in any way. It usually cost me about $225-$250 but she does give a discount to Furloughed Pilots and Pilots on probation.

I have used Pilot Tax in the past....looks like I'll be going back this year.

Flight Crew Per Diem Calculator and Tax Prep
 

There are two websites that I recommend. The same group of people created them and they have been great.

Last year I got money back because of their per diem calculator:

1. EZPerDiem.com - Per Diem Tax Rates & The Per Diem Calculator for Flight Crews
2. EZCrewTax.com - Outstanding Flight Crew Tax Preparation

If you use the promo code: C1Q4L when registering, you will save yourself another 10%.

Cell phones: yes, especially if you need it for reserve.
Parking costs: I would venture to say yes if no free parking was available.
Tips: yes.

Laptop: good question and depends on many things. My CPA advised me NOT to write off a new Mac, but I can write off the cost of internet service because I do need that for all kinds of work-related functions.