---
title: How to Classify Networking Meals
description: Learn how to categorize networking meals for tax purposes correctly. Understand IRS rules, what’s deductible, and how to record them in QuickBooks
---

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# How to Classify Networking Meals

## Understanding IRS rules so you can categorize networking expenses correctly

**Key Points:**

- Networking meals = business meals (50% deductible)
- IRS rules require:
  
    - Business contact present
    - Expectation of discussing business
    - Not lavish or extravagant
- No separate “Networking” category—use “Meals” in QuickBooks.

**Recording Instructions:**

1. In QuickBooks, categorize under: **Meals – 50% deductible**
2. Add memo: “Networking event with \[Name\], discussed \[Topic\]”
3. Attach the receipt.
4. If food is included in a ticket price, categorize the whole ticket as **Meals**.

**Common Mistakes to Avoid:**

- Recording as “Entertainment” (non-deductible)
- Forgetting to document business purpose

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