Your industry worksheet
Firefighter (PDF, 63 kb)
Our P&L worksheet for your profession.
Deductions firefighters actually have
The TCJA suspended miscellaneous itemized deductions through 2025 for W-2 employees, which narrowed what firefighters can deduct federally. But specific items still matter for state returns, side businesses, and career transitions.
- Union and association dues
- Unreimbursed protective equipment and boots
- Required continuing education and certification fees
- Work-related meal per-diems on extended shifts (where applicable)
- Mileage between stations and training (not commute)
- Second-job 1099 contractor income and expenses
FLSA overtime and pension planning
Florida firefighters often have substantial overtime under the 7(k) exemption. Overtime income is fully taxable, but it also interacts with pension calculations and Social Security substantial-gainful-activity thresholds for those approaching retirement.
Have a specific situation?
Call the office and a human answers.
Working with us
Use our firefighter P&L worksheet to gather your annual income and expense breakdown, then send it in with your W-2s and any 1099s. We handle federal, state, and any multi-state returns from relocations or detail assignments.
Common questions
- Can I deduct my gear and uniforms?
- For federal tax (through 2025), unreimbursed W-2 employee expenses aren't deductible. Some states still allow the deduction. If you have 1099 side work, gear used for that work is deductible there.
- What about PSLF and student loans?
- Firefighters and first responders qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness on federal student loans after 120 qualifying payments. We coordinate the tax planning around it.