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Question
If I received a travel reimbursement as a contractor do I need to report that as self employment income?
AI accountant’s answer:
If your travel reimbursement is a non-accountable plan (meaning it isn't tied to specific, documented business expenses), then it is typically considered taxable income and should be reported on your Schedule C along with your other self-employment income. However, if the reimbursement is provided under an accountable plan (where reimbursements are based on substantiated business expenses), then it is generally not considered taxable income, and you wouldn't need to report it on your Schedule C.
To qualify as an accountable plan, the reimbursement must meet these three criteria:
1. The expenses have a business connection (they're incurred while performing your services as a contractor).
2. You must adequately account for these expenses within a reasonable period of time (usually within 60 days).
3. You must return any excess reimbursement or allowance within a reasonable period of time (usually within 120 days).
If you're unsure whether your reimbursement is part of an accountable or non-accountable plan, check with the party who provided the reimbursement for clarification.
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