If you’re attending the SEMA Show, make sure to save your receipts because most of the money you’ll spend is tax deductible.
The SEMA Show will draw thousands of automotive professionals to Las Vegas in November, where they’ll network, check out new products and learn about the latest industry trends. It’s an event every trimmer should attend, if not annually than every few years.
Of course, it can get expensive. Between flights, hotel, taxis and food the cost adds up. Fortunately, if you’re attending for business reasons, most of the expenses are tax deductible.
Understanding which costs qualify for deductions can help reduce your tax liability and make the most of your investment in attending the show. Here’s a breakdown of some common expenses that can be tax deductible:
1. Registration Fees
One of the first costs incurred is the registration fee for attending the SEMA Show. If you’re attending for business purposes, such as research, networking, or industry education, the cost of registering for the event is considered a tax-deductible business expense. Be sure to keep a copy of your registration confirmation and receipt as documentation for your tax filing.
2. Travel Expenses
Traveling to the SEMA Show is often necessary, especially if you live outside Las Vegas. The IRS allows for the deduction of travel expenses incurred when attending a business-related event, as long as the trip is primarily for business purposes. Eligible travel deductions include airfare, train or bus tickets, and even mileage.
3. Lodging and Accommodations
Attending the SEMA Show often requires staying in Las Vegas for multiple days. The IRS allows business travelers to deduct lodging expenses if the stay is necessary for business purposes. Keep in mind that your accommodations must be reasonable — extravagant or luxury stays may be scrutinized. This includes hotels and Airbnbs.
4. Meals and (Some) Entertainment
The IRS allows you to deduct 50% of your business-related meal expenses while traveling. This includes meals and drinks you consume during the SEMA Show, whether it’s a quick bite between sessions or a business dinner with clients. Here are a few guidelines to remember:
Business Meals: If you’re discussing business, networking, or hosting a client, 50% of the meal cost is deductible. Be sure to document the business purpose and the people in attendance.
Per Diem Option: Instead of tracking each meal’s cost, you can choose the IRS’s per diem rates for meals, which provide a set daily allowance that varies by location. In Las Vegas, the 2025 per diem meal allowance is $74 per day.
Note that entertainment expenses (like tickets to shows or gambling) are generally not deductible, even if done in connection with the event.
5. Ground Transportation
Once you arrive in Las Vegas, getting to and from the SEMA Show or other business-related venues is essential. You can deduct transportation costs, such as rental cars, ride-sharing or taxis and parking fees.
6. Exhibitor Costs
If you’re an exhibitor at the SEMA Show, you can deduct many of the expenses involved in setting up and running your booth or display. These include booth fees, marketing materials, shipping costs and labor.
7. Education and Training Costs
One of the key benefits of attending the SEMA Show is the opportunity to attend seminars, workshops and training sessions. These educational activities often focus on industry trends, technical skills or business strategies, making them valuable for business growth. Costs associated with attending these sessions are deductible as professional development expenses.
8. Business Supplies and Technology
You may need to purchase specific items or technology to make the most of your time at the SEMA Show. Items like business cards, tablets for taking notes, or software for networking follow-ups are tax-deductible if they’re used for business purposes during or after the event.
9. Internet and Phone Costs
While attending the SEMA Show, you’ll likely need to stay connected for business purposes. If you incur additional costs for phone calls, internet access or mobile data while traveling, these expenses are tax-deductible. Be sure to distinguish personal from business use when calculating these deductions.
Keep in mind that proper documentation is critical to claiming any tax deduction. Therefore, you should keep receipts, itineraries and records of meetings or business activities that prove the purpose of your expenses. And while you can tack a personal vacation on the end of your business trip, none of the expenses you incur for that portion of the trip will be tax deductible.
In short, attending the SEMA Show can be a valuable investment in your business, and taking advantage of tax deductions can help offset the costs. By understanding which expenses are tax-deductible and keeping careful records, you can reduce your taxable income while enjoying the networking and educational opportunities that the event offers.
Be sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure you comply with all IRS rules and maximize your deductions effectively.
The 2025 SEMA Show will take place November 4 – 7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To buy tickets, visit SEMAShow.com.
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