New Headset and my 2013 taxes

[BKerns]

Can I claim the purchase of a new headset on my tax return? What form would it be under?

Any other pilot specific tax advice for 2013 that others may not know about?

I use turbo tax online to e-file, I guess if I had an accountant they would find this answer for me.

My only advice for your 2013 taxes is avoid HR block!

[Canoehead]

Pretty sure that's a negative.
But if someone can correct me, I'm listening.

[co-joe]

Maybe under "other employment expenses". At best it will be tax deductible. You can always put in something small like that and play dumb when they re assess. You may need a letter or form from your employer stating that having your own headset is a requirement to perform the job.

If you're looking for loopholes do a search on that getting the GST on your training back thread. That sounded promising.

Also don't forget the meals and lodging expenses for airline and rail employees one.

[Randyb99]

You will need a CRA form T2200 signed by your employer stating that you were required to supply a headset to perform your duties.

[Brown Bear]

Bottom line....it's a required business expense, and as such, totally deductible. End of story.

[Airbrake]

It may be required in the CARS & most COM/FOM's but I will tell you with certainty that it will NOT be allowed if audited.
Revenue Canada controls what is on the list of acceptable deductible items. For pilots: headsets, watches and shoes are not allowed (all 3 are required)
We as a group need to approach Rev Can and put our feet to their throats. The reason being, a different arm of govt mandates we use the damn things, but another denies the claim....

Barring that, if you get audited, you'll be paying. I've seen it, and its not fun.

[Pop n Fresh]

Headsets are not exactly the same as the other two.
Do you need this watch http://www.breitling.com/en/emergency/
Or this watch http://www.timex.ca/CLASSICS-SK20071-P221C32.aspx?l=e
Which one should be a tax write off?

[Beefitarian]

CRA is terrific. I guess we all need to be thankful they are not the IRS who has much more power.

I asked my wife her opinion because this,

You will need a CRA form T2200 signed by your employer stating that you were required to supply a headset to perform your duties.

Looks legit to me.

I'm going to guess people still get denied. Audit is their own world. Paperwork is very important.

Your employer should specify the model and brand. You need to keep your receipt with the form and the dates must line up. Anything missed can result in a denial come the audit. That's why it's no fun.

Disclaimer, this in no way is official tax advise in any galaxy.

[CpnCrunch]

CRA is terrific. I guess we all need to be thankful they are not the IRS who has much more power.

I asked my wife her opinion because this,

You will need a CRA form T2200 signed by your employer stating that you were required to supply a headset to perform your duties.

Looks legit to me.

I'm going to guess people still get denied. Audit is their own world. Paperwork is very important.

Your employer should specify the model and brand. You need to keep your receipt with the form and the dates must line up. Anything missed can result in a denial come the audit. That's why it's no fun.

Disclaimer, this in no way is official tax advise in any galaxy.

The question then would be: which line on the T2200 form do you put the headset? I can't see any obvious place...

Bear in mind: "A signed T2200 does not provide an employee with any assurance that expenses incurred are deductible. The eligibility to deduct employment expenses is a matter between the employee and CCRA. Employees wishing to deduct employment expenses are advised to review the CCRA's publications and / or seek advice from their personal tax consultant." (from http://www.usask.ca/fsd/resources/guide ... _t2200.php).

Bottom line....it's a required business expense, and as such, totally deductible. End of story.

That only applies if you are self-employed, not an employee.

[Beefitarian]

Ugh. In person when I said "CRA is terrific." I probably would have been deadpan enough to mask the sarcasm too.

Oh well, if it made sense H&R Block could do taxes. What fun would that be?

[Agrios Anemos]

I say yes and this is why. If you get a head set make sure its a noise canceling one. put it on your taxes. My Aviation doc said if i want to have hearing in 10 years buy a noise canceling. This being said you duty as an active airline pilot or commercial pilot is to maintain a aviation medical. In order to do this you need your ears. you may not agree but but thats my two cents. Tons of guys do it and there fine. now dont go starting expensing your batteries and dont expense a new headset every year you will be fine.

cheers

[Apollo]

I'd have to look up what forms I used etc... But when I bought my Zulu I claimed it, and they sent me one of those "send us the forms because we are pre-auditing you" thingy, and they allowed it.