Deductible meals

[oceanlovin'ea]

I think I have asked this before. Maybe on the "other" board.

Client has contract with Sears to deliver appliances. He is independent contractor. He has a helper with him at all times. The contract with Sears requires that he provide lunch for his helper.

So everyday he buys lunch for both him and his helper in the truck. The amount he pays for his helper is deductible but what about his lunch? Can he only deduct 1/2 of what he spent for lunches?

Linda F

[Luis Mopeo]

Client's meals are zero percent deductible.

Not enough info to determine helper's meals, but from what's presented, 100% of the value of the meals is gross income to the helper, and the client gets to deduct 50%.

[ChEAr$]

and what's more,

Client's meals are zero percent deductible.

Not enough info to determine helper's meals, but from what's presented, 100% of the value of the meals is gross income to the helper, and the client gets to deduct 50%.

His "helper" is a common law employee, so he's subject to the "full monty": as regards
W2, 941, SUTA and FUTA.

[oceanlovin'ea]

Meals for convenience of employer

Why wouldn't the helper's meals qualify for "meals for the convenience of employer"? That would make them 100% deductible.

Since they are in the owner's truck, he can't "go" to lunch where he wants but must eat where and when the owner stops. They must make their deliveries by a certain time so probably no true "lunch breaks",

Linda F

[OldJack]

Zero deduction for either meal. You know those meals are at a fast food drive thru or even inside. Sears would not require meals be provided but might require that a lunch time be allowed. Your client is pulling your leg.