Hello, in 2008 I paid toward getting myself trained in an IT application (to advance in my career) from a non-government recognized institution (so no tuition form or anything). The training was provided by a person running a training center out of his house. I have proof in the form of checks written to him and the trainer is willing to provide a written letter stating this. In which form do I write off this deduction? Also can mileage and gas expenses be included in the deduction?

Also, last year I paid toward my employment work authorization for myself and my spouse. Which form do I need to put this deduction under?

Any help would be appreciated.

Are you a salaried employee? Were these expenses required by your job?

Yes I am salaried employee and was salaried when I took the training and also applied for authorization document. The training was to advance in my career and the authorization was required to maintain legal employement status in the country.

Then I don't believe you can deduct these expenses.

The work authorization costs CANNOT be deducted; the IRS considers them to be personal expenses and thus NOT deductible.

The IT application MAY be deductible as an employee business expense, but they will be itemized deductions and must first exceed 2% of your Adjusted Gross Income, then, when combined with all other itemized deductions, exceed your joint standard deduction of $10,900.