5 Expenses to Expect During Your Job Search

When you’re job searching, you expect for it to take up a large portion of your time. However, you might not expect it to cost a lot of money. Sure, you’re looking for a job so you can make money, but you may have to spend a little money in the process. Here are a few job search expenses, you might have to pay as you seek new employment.

Professional clothing. You may have to spend a little money to upgrade your wardrobe so you look more professional for interviews. Depending on the industry and type of job you’re seeking, you may have to purchase a business suit, dress shoes, dress shirt, and a tie. Don’t go for the most expensive suit, unless you’re looking for a job in an industry where name brands are critical to job success. Shop around and buy on sale if you can. Or consider less expensive alternatives like consignment or a thrift store.

Resume services. Professional resume services can help get your resume in top-notch shape, bringing the most important skills and experience to the forefront. These services can get expensive, so look to your own network of friends and family for someone who can help with your resume at a lower cost. Doing your own resume doesn’t mean you won’t still have costs. You may have to spend a little money printing copies of your resume.

A professional headshot for your social media pages. More employers are using LinkedIn to find and screen candidates. Casual or unprofessional photos cause you to be overlooked. Professional headshots present the best version of you and can set you apart from other candidates. If you want prospective employers to take you seriously, be sure that your profile picture shows a job candidate worth being taken seriously. 

Transportation costs. As you travel to and from interviews, you’ll have to spend money on gas. Public transportation and ride sharing are transportation options for those who don’t have their own vehicles.

Childcare. Parents who are on the job market may need to pay for childcare while they’re going on interviews, working on your resume, or otherwise preparing for your job search.  Paying for fulltime daycare might be too expensive while you’re unemployed. Instead, you can save money by hiring a babysitter for a few hours or finding a daycare with drop-in rates.

The good news is that some job search expenses are tax deductible if they're related to your current occupation, are not reimbursed, and you itemize your tax deductions. Keep a record of what you’re spending on your job search and consult with your tax preparer to find out how you can receive a tax break on your job search expenses.