Documentation for standard deduction?

[ejny65]

If the standard living expense is $1300 in means test, do I need actual documentation to proof that we actually had that much expense for food and etc.? same question on car operating and ownership cost, and out of pocket health expense please. Thanks.

[jp2861]

According to the means test you shouldn't need to document these expenses:

National Standards for food, clothing and other items apply nationwide. Taxpayers are allowed the total National Standards amount for their family size, without questioning the amount actually spent.

National Standards have also been established for minimum allowances for out-of-pocket health care expenses. Taxpayers and their dependents are allowed the standard amount on a per person basis, without questioning the amount actually spent.

Maximum allowances for housing and utilities and transportation, known as the Local Standards, vary by location. In most cases, the taxpayer is allowed the amount actually spent, or the local standard, whichever is less. http://www.usdoj.gov/ust/eo/bapcpa/2...anstesting.htm

This is what the means testing says, but I guess it always comes down to the trustees interpretation and how deep he/she wants to dig.

[HHM]

Keep in mind, the means test and schedules I and J (your list of income and expenses) are different things. You DO NOT use the national standards on schedule J. Schedule J is where you list your actual expenses, and yes, you should at least be "prepared" to document what you spend.