Assuming you are a W2 employee (not an independent contractor)…..
There no longer is any deduction for unreimbursed employee expenses… GONE!
That means, unfortunately, you have legitimate expenses you cannot deduct.
In an ‘UNACCOUNTABLE’ plan (your allowance), it is suppose to be added to your W2 and taxed for both FICA and Federal Withholding.
It is an unfortunate part of the new tax law.
You know the fees the brokers charge? Also no longer deductible!
Anything that went on a Schedule A Itemized Deductions that were subject to the 2% of AGI limitation are ALL GONE.
Assuming the employer is doing it correctly (adding it to your W2), they also are paying FICA (employer matching).
A better cheaper plan for all concerned is to have…..
An ‘ACCOUNTABLE’ plan……
You give them an expense report showing documented business mileage. They reimburse that amount.
It does not go on your W2, no employer matching, etc. They still get the deduction for what you are paid but you are not taxed on it.
If you are an independent contractor, forget everything I’ve said. I’ll have different answer.