How about ditching Starbucks? We call it Fourbucks because it’s hard to spend less there (I actually went only twice, for tea).
Yesterday I received an e-newsletter with tax advice for self employed folks, a woman asked whether she could write off the $1200 he hubby, and independent contractor, had spent during one year at Dunkin Donut. The answer is, no.

That’s a good point. I tend to forget that people eat out because I only eat out for business meals. That guy needs to have breakfast meetings at Dunkin Donuts.

Actually, the tax adviser added something about meals being only covered if the trip is over night.

I’ve always understood that there were two categories:

1. business travel meals, which have to involve overnight stays or substantial rest, and can be eaten alone or with others (but are only deductible at 50%, even if you eat alone); and
2. business meals, which have to involve substantial amounts of business (and are only deductible at 50%)

I could be wrong, but that’s how it’s broken down by my tax preparer. This article explains it a bit better:

What is necessary for meals and entertainment expenses to be deductible?

To be deductible, you must discuss business with your dining partner before, during or after the activity or the activity must be directly related to the conduct of business. Traveling away from home overnight for business automatically qualifies meals as directly related to your trade or business if you dine alone or with a business associate. Additionally, the meal or entertainment expense deduction is generally limited to 50% of the cost. Dues to social, athletic and country clubs are not deductible.