2009 Comes to a Close

[fiasco]

Just finished my paperwork for 2009. (I don't have any games this week and I love getting started on the taxes early to get that refund quicker!)

Between adult rec league, Jr High and High School, I officiated a total of 113 basketball games in 2009, made a total of $2,647, and, in the process logged 1,022 miles on the old 2-door stick shift.

All in all, a good year. I learned a lot, was able to focus on a few now-improved parts of my "game" and got to meet with a lot of great people.

Here's to a great 2010!



How did you guys do this year?

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by fiasco

Logged 1,022 miles on the old 2-door stick shift.

Don't forget to claim your laundry as a deduction. I don't have my uniform dry-cleaned, I launder it at home, so my accountant allows me to claim $5.00 per week for laundry. Don't forget dues, fees, insurance, equipment, etc.

[just another ref]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Don't forget to claim your laundry as a deduction. I don't have my uniform dry-cleaned, I launder it at home, so my accountant allows me to claim $5.00 per week for laundry.

Your accountant would probably "allow you" not to report game fees.

It costs you $5 a week to wash your uniform?

Any deduction is legal...........until you get caught.

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by just another ref

It costs you $5 a week to wash your uniform?

Three, or four, games a week. Hot water, detergent, electricity for the washer, and electricity for the elecrtic dryer. $60.00 for the whole season. How much would you deduct?

[just another ref]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Three, or four, games a week. Hot water, detergent, electricity for the washer, and electricity for the elecrtic dryer. $60.00 for the whole season. How much would you deduct?

I don't know. My thought was: Officiate this year, don't officiate next year.
Compare your laundry expense for the two years, and the difference will be negligible.

Where does the line draw? Do we blow our noses after the game? Can we deduct tissues?

[zm1283]

I made little over $8K for basketball in 2009, not counting any deductions or expenses.

[fiasco]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Three, or four, games a week. Hot water, detergent, electricity for the washer, and electricity for the elecrtic dryer. $60.00 for the whole season. How much would you deduct?

The problem is that you have to be able to document this precisely if you get audited. I find it hard to believe that you can accurately document how much you are paying to have your ref clothes laundered unless you take them separately to the dry cleaners and keep your receipts.

I deduct mileage, dues and fees, and any equipment I buy. Other than that, I don't tread those dangerous waters....

[StripesOhio]

You guys claim your fees on taxes?

[Welpe]

Originally Posted by zm1283

I made little over $8K for basketball in 2009, not counting any deductions or expenses.

Good gravy, that's some serious cash. How many games did you work?

Originally Posted by StripesOhio

You guys claim your fees on taxes?

As in, the money earned from officiating? Of course. To do otherwise is illegal and unethical. If you mean deducting association dues, etc then yes, I do deduct those things.

I deduct local association dues, NASO dues, assigner's fees, uniform and equipment purchases, clinic fees, unreimbursed mileage, and tolls. I don't bother trying to deduct a portion of my internet, cell phone, laundry or meals.

This being my first basketball season, I worked around 25 games in 2009.

[grunewar]

This has got to be the earliest we've ever discussed Taxes! Heck, the year isn't over yet!! As most, I keep strict records and deduct all I feel appropriate (not tissues!)

And for what it's worth: 183 games and 2450 miles. I'm not in it for the cash!

My biggest delights this year were: I learned allot, I think I'm improving, I received some excellent training and mentoring and worked with some great officials which = a better schedule. Plus I still have great passion for the avocation!

Can't wait for 2010 - first V Game is Tues, 1/5!

Be safe!

[Vinski]

I'm thinking of writing off my new HD TV as "training tools". You know, for watching college games and the officiating

[fiasco]

Originally Posted by Vinski

I'm thinking of writing off my new HD TV as "training tools". You know, for watching college games and the officiating

Good luck with that!

[StripesOhio]

Well, I moved back to Ohio in November (late to the assignment party) and have only worked 5 or 6 games. I don't think the IRS will miss the small change I made.

[zm1283]

Originally Posted by Welpe

Good gravy, that's some serious cash. How many games did you work?

That is including game fees and mileage on the days I drive.

35 nights (Not games, but usually 2 games/night) in January/February of '09.

33 nights from September-December of '09.

68 nights total, which include a few (5-6) rec league games and home school games not in our association.

Made $6,900 in baseball from March-September as well.

[fullor30]

Originally Posted by zm1283

That is including game fees and mileage on the days I drive.

35 nights (Not games, but usually 2 games/night) in January/February of '09.

33 nights from September-December of '09.

68 nights total, which include a few (5-6) rec league games and home school games not in our association.

Made $6,900 in baseball from March-September as well.

I know a guy who averages 3,000 a month officiating. All kids and lower level high school

Basketball, baseball, volleyball.