Can I deduct my cell phone as a work expense?

[SunnyPupRN]

I work private duty, and there is no land line service in the home. Also, on occasion, I do outing with the patient who, although is generally stable, has a trach and congenital disorders. In an emergency, my only way to call for help is to use my personal cell. Can the cell be deducted at tax-time?

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

We are nurses, not accountants.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Since laws can vary by state, you need to seek the advice of an accountant/tax professional/CPA in your state.

[HazelnutCream]

Generally speaking, some employers do reimburse a portion of your cell phone cost if they require you to use it for work. Agree with recommendation to speak with tax professional or your employer.

[AspiringNurseMW]

I work private duty, and there is no land line service in the home. Also, on occasion, I do outing with the patient who, although is generally stable, has a trach and congenital disorders. In an emergency, my only way to call for help is to use my personal cell. Can the cell be deducted at tax-time?

Not speaking from a nursing perspective but as someone who is self employed.

You want to deduct your cell over ONE or a few potential phone calls for that ONE client? I deduct PART of my cell phone bill because I used it weekly and I use a large portion of my data for work. I work from home and spend at least 50%of my time on the phone.

You might have to make more than a few calls to get that deducted, but, you should speak to an accountant or ask for reimbursement from your job.