Ask an AI Accountant

Yes, you can generally write off business meals that occur during a Zoom meeting if the expense meets the necessary IRS criteria for a deductible business meal. According to the IRS, meals may be considered deductible if: 1. The meal is directly associated with the active conduct of your trade or business. 2. The meal is necessary or appropriate to the business environment. 3. The expense is not lavish or extravagant under the circumstances. 4. You or an employee of yours is present at the meal. 5. The meal involves at least one current or potential client, customer, consultant, or similar business contact. To claim the deduction, you should document the following details: - The date and location of the meal. - The amount of the meal expense. - The nature of the business discussion or purpose. - The business relationship to the attendees. Keep in mind that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) limited the meals and entertainment deduction. Entertainment expenses, previously 50% deductible, are no longer deductible. However, business meals remain 50% deductible if they meet the relevant criteria. Additionally, for the tax years 2021 and 2022, the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) temporarily increased the deduction for business meals to 100% if the expense is for food and beverages provided by a restaurant. This provision is intended to help support the restaurant industry. As always, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances may vary, so it's important to consult a tax professional for specific advice on your situation.