Are You a “Tax Turtle” in 2026? Travel Deductions, Remote Work, and IRS Scrutiny Explained
In 2026, more people than ever are working remotely, traveling while working, or running businesses from multiple locations. This flexibility sounds great, but it has also caught the attention of the IRS. If you move slowly between locations, work while traveling, or try to claim travel expenses as business deductions, you may fall into a group sometimes called a “tax turtle.”
A tax turtle is someone who carries their work with them wherever they go. Think of remote workers, consultants, online business owners, influencers, or professionals who travel frequently while continuing to earn income.
While there is nothing illegal about this lifestyle, claiming deductions the wrong way can quickly lead to IRS questions or even an audit. Tax time is drawing near, so talk to a Texas tax attorney today.
What Is a “Tax Turtle”?
A tax turtle is not an official IRS term. It is simply a way to describe taxpayers who work from different places instead of one fixed office. For example, you might:
- Work remotely while traveling across states
- Split time between Texas and another state
- Run a business from short-term rentals or hotels
- Deduct travel costs while continuing regular work
The problem arises when taxpayers try to treat personal travel as business travel. The IRS closely reviews these deductions because many people misunderstand what actually qualifies.
When Travel Expenses Are Truly Deductible
The IRS allows travel deductions, but only under specific rules. In general, travel expenses must be ordinary, necessary, and directly related to business activities.
This usually means you are traveling away from your tax home for work purposes. Your tax home is not always where you live. Instead, it is typically the main place where you regularly conduct business.
Legitimate deductible travel expenses may include:
- Flights or transportation for business trips
- Hotel stays required for work
- Business meals during travel
- Local transportation, like rideshares or rental cars
However, if the main reason for the trip is personal, the expenses usually cannot be deducted, even if you answer emails or attend a short meeting while traveling.
Remote Work Creates New Tax Risks
Remote work has blurred the line between personal life and business activity. Many taxpayers assume that working from a vacation destination automatically makes travel deductible. Unfortunately, that is not how the IRS sees it.
For example, working remotely from a beach rental for two weeks does not automatically turn the trip into a business expense. If you would have taken the trip anyway, the IRS may consider it personal travel.
Another issue happens when people claim multiple home offices or try to change their tax home frequently. The IRS may question whether the taxpayer truly has a principal place of business.
These situations often trigger closer review because travel deductions are commonly abused or misunderstood.
IRS Scrutiny Is Increasing in 2026
The IRS has stepped up its enforcement efforts in the last few years, especially when it comes to people who work for themselves or from home. The agency can now more easily compare income, deductions, and travel patterns thanks to better systems for tracking and reporting data.
Some things that could earn you a spot of unwanted attention from the IRS include:
- Large travel deductions compared to income
- Repeated business losses year after year
- Claiming travel expenses without clear business records
- Mixing personal and business expenses
- Deducting long stays in vacation locations
The IRS may not allow deductions and may charge extra taxes or fines if records are unclear or missing.
The Importance of Good Recordkeeping
One of the best ways to protect yourself is to keep good records. Taxpayers should keep records that show:
- The business purpose of each trip
- Meeting schedules or client communications
- Receipts for transportation, lodging, and meals
- Dates and locations of travel
It’s also very important to keep your personal and business expenses separate. Using a separate credit card or business account can help keep things clear later on.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
When it comes to taxes, travel, and working from home can be hard to understand. If you don’t get your deductions or have to go through an audit, even small mistakes can cost you a lot of money. A Texas tax lawyer can help you figure out what counts as a valid deduction and how to keep track of your activities correctly.
If you get a notice from the IRS, are being audited, or aren’t sure if you handled past deductions correctly, it’s especially important to get legal advice. Addressing concerns early often prevents larger tax disputes later.
Speak With a Texas Tax Attorney Today
If you work remotely, travel frequently, or operate a business across multiple locations, it is important to make sure your tax strategy follows IRS rules.
The Texas tax attorneys at Coleman Jackson P.C. can help you understand your obligations, protect your deductions, and respond to IRS concerns before they grow into serious problems. Call Coleman Jackson P.C. at (214) 599-0431 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.
This law blog is written by the attorneys at Coleman Jackson, P.C., located at 6060 North Central Expressway, Suite 620, Dallas, Texas 75206, for educational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship between this law firm and the reader. You should consult with legal counsel in your geographic area regarding any legal issues affecting you, your family, or your business.
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