For freelance journalists

Mileage receipts for assignments and coverage

Interview, event, field coverage.

Freelance reporters deduct assignment travel as Schedule C operating expense. Each coverage is a professional expense.

Common pains

• Cancelled interview — Travel made still counts.
• Event coverage — Concert, conference, protest.
• Distant source travel — Out-of-town investigation.

Best practices

• Tag assignment in purpose — Editor defines cost center.
• Log cancelled interviews — Travel made is deductible.
• Separate from personal research — Only paid assignments count.

Frequently asked questions

Do cancelled interviews count?

Yes, travel made.

Personal research?

No, no commercial purpose.

MEI or Carnê-Leão?

MEI up to R$ 81k.

Journalists who document recover up to US$ 10,000/year.