Tax Question for the Board

[Terry in Crapchester]

First, a little background info. I'm in the process of trying to obtain an Attorney's Secure Pass. That would allow me to get into the courthouses without going through the metal detector, which would save me quite a bit of time. It also would make it much easier for me to get into the jail to visit my clients who wind up there.

The dilemma I'm facing is that the secure pass application requires two forms of photo ID. The photo ID must be either government-issued or employer-issued. Since I'm self-employed, the second option is obviously out. I currently only have one form of photo ID that meets the requirement: a driver's license.

I've decided that the best, or perhaps only, way to obtain a second photo ID is to apply for a passport. I probably wouldn't get one if not for this requirement -- if I really, really want to travel to Canada, I can apply for an enhanced driver's license which has the same effect as a passport in that regard and is a lot cheaper.

Question is, can I deduct the passport fee on my taxes? I'm pretty sure I can deduct the fee for the attorney's secure pass, but that fee is only $30, whereas the passport fee is $205 if I expedite it. The passport gives me an additional benefit, of course, and I don't need to travel outside the U.S. for my practice, but like I said, I wouldn't apply for one without the requirement of a second form of photo ID for the attorney's secure pass.

[Goober McTuber]

Wisconsin offers the option of a picture ID card, for those who don’t have a driver’s license. Looks like New York has a similar option, but you have to surrender your driver’s license. Maybe you could take a class at your local community college and get a college picture ID.

[Mikey]

My BofA debit card has my picture on it. Would they accept something like that? It doesn't cost $200 to open a checking account.

[ChargerMike]

My BofA debit card has my picture on it. Would they accept something like that? It doesn't cost $200 to open a checking account.

They probably require a facial view Mikey...

[Shlomart Ben Yisrael]

What's going on here?

:?

[Goober McTuber]

What's going on here?

:?

Democracy. You wouldn't understand.