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In this episode of Pivot to Profit, Pam Jordan and tax expert Alexis Sidney dig deep into the confusing world of business meals and entertainment deductions. If you’ve ever wondered what you can actually write off when it comes to client lunches, team dinners, or that Starbucks run, this episode is for you. Pam and Alexis break down what’s 100% deductible, what’s only 50%, and what’s not deductible at all—plus the common mistakes business owners make that can cost them thousands at tax time. Learn the rules around employee events, travel meals, and why documentation is everything. Hear real-life stories, practical tips for keeping your books audit-ready, and how to avoid red flags like excessive DoorDash charges or mixing business with personal expenses.
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💡 Meet the Experts:
Pam Jordan is the CEO of Pivot Business Group, helping entrepreneurs understand their numbers, increase profits, reduce taxes, and build wealth through strategic financial planning.
Alexis Sidney is a Certified Tax Strategist and Managing Partner of Pivot Tax Strategy, helping business owners save millions annually through actionable strategies.
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Recommended Videos:
If you liked this episode, you'll love these videos:
– How to Put Your Kids on Payroll and Save Thousands in Taxes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1mvyHCnFWY
– How To Hire Your Kids To Immediately Reduce Your Taxes! (Step by Step): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nKN_AD21kQ
– $15000 IRS Loophole for Parents (Legal But Nobody Does It): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iardyOuyxxo
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Want More Financial Clarity?
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Want to know if your business is maximizing every legitimate deduction, or have questions about meals and entertainment rules? Let us know what you’d like to explore next!
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Key Takeaways from This Episode:
– Not all meals are created equal: Employee events and holiday parties are 100% deductible, while client meals and travel meals are usually only 50% deductible.
– Personal meals and everyday lunches aren’t business expenses: Swiping your company card for solo meals or routine coffee runs is a red flag.
– Entertainment is no longer deductible: Since 2018, golf outings, shows, and similar entertainment with clients can’t be written off—even if food is served.
– Documentation is crucial: Keep detailed records—who you met, when, where, and what was discussed. Use your calendar and attach receipts to transactions.
– Be reasonable and avoid “lavish” expenses: The IRS doesn’t define a dollar limit, but excessive spending out of proportion to your business can trigger audits.
– Accurate bookkeeping matters: Separate 100% and 50% deductible meals in your chart of accounts, or risk losing deductions at tax time.
– Watch out for common mistakes: DoorDash, Uber Eats, and family dinners are often misclassified—don’t let convenience cost you.
Remember: It’s not what you make, it’s what you keep. Get smart about your meals and entertainment deductions to keep more money in your business!
