Federal Taxes - Applying per diem for meals

[jhamlin]

I'm sure someone here knows the answers to my question - here it is:

I'm out of town in my van for several days/week and need to know what the 2010 per diem rate is, and how exactly to use it when calculating the meals expenses deduction. For example, if I'm out only 1/2 or 3/4 of a day, what number do I use? I reviewed IRS pub. 430, but it only shows the 2009 rate, and doesn't address the partial day question. Thanx in advance for all comments!

Jim

 

[Fkatz]

Per Deim is a reimbursement for food only, it is figured by1/4 days on the day you leave and the day you return home

it works this waY

you leave at 3 pm on monday, that gives you 1/2 day
gone tues, wed, thurs, and friday you arrive home at 9 pm
Friday is becomes a full day due to coming home at 9pm so you out 4 1/2 days.
remember you must stay out and spend 10 hours in a sleeper, motel, or other sleeping facillity

As far as the actual deduction it is $59.00 in the US and $63.00 Per day in Canada, the 1/4 law pertains to timwe entering and leaving the border.

The deduction is 80% of the total
So if yoiur out 300 days @ 59 per day is $17,700.00 x 80% = $14660 as the deduction

This is the per deim

frank