#602 How to Write Off a Holiday Party for Your Business episode artwork

EPISODE · Nov 21, 2025 · 24 MIN

#602 How to Write Off a Holiday Party for Your Business

from Main Street Business · host Mark J Kohler and Mat Sorensen

Are you missing out on one of the easiest 100 percent deductions available to business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down exactly how to structure a holiday party or company event so it becomes a fully deductible business expense. From the IRS rules under Section 274 to real examples of what qualifies, you’ll learn how to turn food, entertainment, awards, and even venue costs into a legitimate write-off.Unlike generic tax tips online, this discussion dives into real-world application for small business owners — whether you have a growing team, a handful of employees, or a small staff running from your home office. Mark and Mat explain the three requirements every event must meet, the difference between 50 percent and 100 percent deductions, why culture and team-building matter for tax purposes, and the exact documentation you need to protect the deduction. They also walk through case law, common mistakes, and creative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home.Whether you’re planning a Christmas party, a summer barbecue, a team-building event, or an employee appreciation night, this episode will help you use the tax code to your advantage while still creating an event your team will love. By the end, you’ll know how to design an effective, compliant, and fully deductible company party that strengthens your culture and saves you money.You’ll learn:How to structure a company holiday party or event so it qualifies for a full 100 percent tax deductionThe three IRS requirements under Section 274 that determine whether meals and entertainment are fully deductibleReal examples of deductible events, including award lunches, themed parties, off-site gatherings, and interactive team activitiesHow to document business purpose properly and protect your deduction if the IRS ever asks for proofCreative strategies like using the Augusta rule when hosting at your home to increase deductions legallyCommon mistakes business owners make when planning events — and how to avoid losing the write-offHow to maximize tax benefits while still creating a memorable, effective event your team actually enjoysGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here’s the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp602-write-off-holiday-partyReady to Take the Next Step?Work With Mat & Mark’s Law FirmGet strategic legal guidance for your business, taxes, asset protection, and estate planning with KKOS Lawyers.[Book a Call with KKOS Lawyers]Take Control of Your RetirementWant to invest your IRA or 401(k) in assets you actually understand? Check out our self-directed trust company Directed IRA.[Learn More About Directed IRA]Free ResourcesMat Sorensen’s Optimal Order of Investing GuideLearn how to prioritize where your money should go and build a smarter investing strategy.[Download the Free Guide]Mark J. Kohler’s 30-Point Tax GuideDiscover practical tax strategies and planning opportunities every business owner and investor should know.[Download the Free Guide]Get More From Mat & MarkWatch on YouTubeTax strategies, business planning, investing, asset protection, and more.[Visit the YouTube Channel...

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Nov 21, 2025

Embed this episode

Are you missing out on one of the easiest 100 percent deductions available to business owners? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down exactly how to structure a holiday party or company event so it becomes a fully deductible business expense. From the IRS rules under Section 274 to real examples of what qualifies, you’ll learn how to turn food, entertainment, awards, and even venue costs into a legitimate write-off. Unlike generic tax t...

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

Ready to play

#602 How to Write Off a Holiday Party for Your Business

0:00 24:27

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Main Street Business?

This episode is 24 minutes long.

When was this Main Street Business episode published?

This episode was published on November 21, 2025.

Is there a transcript available for this episode?

Yes, a full transcript is available for this episode. You can read the complete transcript on the episode page.

Can I download this Main Street Business episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!