Poker related write-offs for non-pros

[MasterLJ]

Can we write-off things like gas to casino, computer equipment, etc... if you are not filing as a pro?

I'm a little ticked that my modest 2006 winnings have swayed my tax liability from +600 to -1000. I haven't written off any of my purchases (2 monitors, gas to casinos) which could save me a few hundred.

If it is possible, are they miscellaineous deductions?

Thanks in advance.

[Lost Wages]

Under no circumstances can you deduct expenses as a non-pro. Sorry.

Lost Wages

[MasterLJ]

Thanks for the quick reply.

[Poker CPA]

Lost Wages:

Can you give the source of that in the IRS rules and regulations. It would be helpful to MasterJ.

[plasphemy]

Well, I read in RBS Tax Services' "The Tax Guide for Gamblers" that a gambler was successful deducting expenses on Schedule A under IRS code Section 212, "Expenses for the Production of Income." (Rowles TC Memo 1986-30).

Apparently he had to go all the way to tax court to get it though.

Have you tried filing as a pro and depreciating your monitors? Filing as a pro allows you to keep your standard deduction and is sometimes cheaper.

You can't deduct a "commute" to your local casino though, you can only deduct trips to out of town casinos.

[Poker CPA]

Excellent work "plasphemy". Congrats

Do we have a debate "Lost Wages"? I'm sure the OP would like the source to your tax conclusion. I smell amended return baby. Cash on the sidewalk.

[BigBiceps]

I smell the IRS trying to get you to file on schedule C and requesting additional self-employment tax for SSN and MediCare if you deduct this stuff on the schedule A.

If they notice.

[Poker CPA]

I smell defined benefit

[MegaDisgruntled]

If you file as a "hobby," the only thing you can deduct is losses. Under no circumstances should you just "net" winnings.

Mega

[depokerstar]

Not worth the potential headaches and risk for $1600...IMO anyways