Coffee
No if solo, Yes (50%) if meeting with a client or prospect.
Details
Coffee purchased while working alone at a cafe is a PERSONAL expense ('fueling the body'). Coffee bought for a client meeting IS 50% deductible as a business meal.
Conditions
- •Solo: NOT deductible (personal expense)
- •With client/prospect discussing business: 50% deductible
Buying coffee for a potential client to pitch services (50%)
Daily latte while coding alone at Starbucks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Thinking 'working on laptop at Starbucks' makes your latte deductible
Check Another Expense
Is Coffee Tax Deductible for Your Business?
Whether coffee is tax deductible depends on how you use it and your specific business situation. The IRS evaluates deductibility based on whether the expense is ordinary and necessary for your particular trade or business.
Key Rules for Deducting Coffee
Coffee purchased while working alone at a cafe is a PERSONAL expense ('fueling the body'). Coffee bought for a client meeting IS 50% deductible as a business meal.
Requirements to Claim This Deduction
- Solo: NOT deductible (personal expense)
- With client/prospect discussing business: 50% deductible
How to Document Coffee for Tax Purposes
Proper documentation is critical for any business deduction. For coffee, you should:
- Keep all receipts and invoices showing the amount paid
- Record the date of the expense and the business purpose
- If mixed-use, maintain a log showing business vs. personal usage
- Store records for at least 3 years (7 years for major purchases)
Source: IRC § 262 (Personal Expenses); IRC § 274. This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.
Related Expenses
Business Meals
Yes, meals with clients are 50% deductible when business is discussed.
Travel Meals
Yes, meals while traveling overnight for business are 50% deductible.
Team Meals
50% for routine team lunches, 100% for company-wide events.
Office Snacks
50% deductible in 2025, but drops to 0% starting January 2026.
Wine / Alcohol
Yes, alcohol as part of a business meal is 50% deductible.
Home Office
Yes, if you use a dedicated space exclusively and regularly for business.