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June 3, 2019
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I got a certification but no job in the field yet. Are the certification expenses deductible? If so, where - as an education expense?

  • June 3, 2019
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Best answer by MargaretL

No, at this point you cannot deduct the certification expenses, unfortunately. First, expenses for preparing your for a new trade are not tax deductible. Second, if they are for the existing trade/skill, they are deducted against your W-2 income; since you have no job and no W-2, they cannot be deducted. You can deduct work-related expenses only if you are working, unfortunately. 

IF you took any classes at an accredited school, they may be deducted in the education section.. but not the licensing/certification exams. 

1 reply

MargaretL
MargaretLAnswer
Employee
June 3, 2019

No, at this point you cannot deduct the certification expenses, unfortunately. First, expenses for preparing your for a new trade are not tax deductible. Second, if they are for the existing trade/skill, they are deducted against your W-2 income; since you have no job and no W-2, they cannot be deducted. You can deduct work-related expenses only if you are working, unfortunately. 

IF you took any classes at an accredited school, they may be deducted in the education section.. but not the licensing/certification exams.