Can I deduct travel expenses, per diem, if I go to Florida and care for my Mom if paid by my Dad? Not Medicaid.

You can and should draw up a contract with an Elder Care attorney, where your parents hire you as an employee. You will pay income tax out of this as well. Be prepared however, there is a legal limit to what you can be paid under these circumstances, typically it's 11.00 to 12.00 per hour, and this is only for time that you are actually physically taking care of parents. You can get "reasonable" mileage reimbursement for using your vehicle on top of that. Or you can possibly be reimbursed for flying, but you will have to work that out with an attorney in a contract, and you will have to pay for your tickets and expenses, and then of course be reimbursed. Document everything too.

No way no way can you deduct travel expenses for a family member..don't even try or Uncle Sam will be at your doorstep...They are able to do what they want its their money,but as stated before better get a legal document drawn up or it will be perceived as a large gift ..which Uncle Sam has qualms about not paying taxes on..good luck and take care

Sorry, not if it is a family member. I am an R.N. & had 2 daughters who passed at the age of 39. My oldest, 5 years ago & my youngest 3 years ago next month & I cared for my oldest child till she died & she was gravely disabled & bed ridden. My youngest I was sparred of this; she was mentally disabled but her husband was not into her care at all- & she did not live in the same state.
Now I care for my husband, who has solvent dementia. Being a professional will not help with $ at all. It is a gift of the Heart.

No you cannot deduct travel for family. Not even to be their nurse. I sincerely doubt they have a nurse there 24/7, the cost would exceed the price of a Nursing Home. If they want to pay you, they can do whatever they want with their own money, but they should draw up a contract with an attorney or else it will be a rather large "gift".