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Parking tickets on business time

Posted by NewRookie on 02/05/2009 - 14:46

Hello and I hope someone can help.

I know that parking tickets are not a deduction that can be taken on a tax return. However, my client recevied a ticket while at a business meeting. He wanted to know if the company can pay this for him. We do not have a policy in place that says we can or can not.
If we pay this through the company how would I booked that item?

I am very new to this so please be kind in your answer.

Thanks in advance.

Tammy Garrett, Bookkeeper, Colorado

  • 1543 reads


Agree With Rebecca

Dear Tammy,

I wouldn't start down that path. While they may be a client--they seem to be stretching the client-accountant relationship---paying for a non business related expense sends the wrong message, don't you think? In addition, there is no need to establish a policy since no one with a reasonable perspective would ask that you pay their parking ticket. Would you ask your employer to pay one for you if you were on a business trip? I know my boss would laugh. Validating a parking stub and paying a parking violation are two completely different things. Shame on your client! David

Posted by d9david on 02/12/2009 - 20:04
  • 1 read

Don't pay for parking tickets!

A parking ticket is recieved because someone broke the law. Would you pay for a DUI ticket?

That said, if you must pay for a parking ticket, charge it to the same place you would charge a "parking fee" or fuel reimbursement.

Posted by RBlackman on 02/12/2009 - 16:10
  • 1 read
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