Tax Deductions Calculator for the
Self-Employed

Use our free tax deduction calculator for 1099 and self-employed business owners to make the most of your available tax deductions and maximize your tax savings.

How to maximize self-employed tax deductions

Familiarize yourself with deductible expenses specific to your industry so you can track these expenses throughout the year. Come tax time, you’ll be better prepared to claim all your available deductions and ensure you don’t miss out on savings.

If you're self-employed, choose your profession to see a list of the tax deductions you might qualify for, tailored to your industry.

Common self-employed tax deductions:

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Actors & performance artists

Self-promotion material
Costumes
Performance hair & make-up
Manager fees
Union dues
Conferences & classes
Video equipment
Photography equipment
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Accounting software
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Artists

Art supplies (canvas, brushes, paint, easels)
Advertising (online or print)
Photography equipment (lighting, camera, backdrops)
Studio expenses
Art display stands
Commission fees
Business bank account & credit card fees
Website development/maintenance
Accounting software

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Caregivers & nannies

Medical supplies (PPE)
Uniform
Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Business phone & internet
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Business bank account & credit card fees
App fees
Legal fees

Cleaning supplies
Commission fees
Cleaning bill
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Cleaning service providers

Uniform & work clothes
Advertising (online or print)
Professional services (accounting, legal)
Website development/maintenance
Business portion of phone & internet
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Business bank account & credit card fees
Cleaning supplies & equipment (chemicals, brooms, vacuums, buckets, rags)
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Construction contractors

Trade school
Licensing & fees
Uniform & work clothes (hard hats, vest, boots, protective gear)
Safety equipment (road cones, first-aid kits)
Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Business bank account & credit card fees
Tools & equipment (hammer, drills, ladder, etc.)

Depreciation of heavy machinery
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Copywriters & bloggers

Business portion of computer, laptop, tablet
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Software (computer, design, accounting software)
Website expenses (hosting, design, layout, maintenance)
Memberships & subscriptions
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Cosmetic & personal care

Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Business bank account & credit card fees
Website development/maintenance
Supply storage
Promotional giveaways
Commission fees
Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Equipment (lighting, backdrops, tripod)
Conference/show fees
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Dog walkers & pet sitters

Pet treats & toys
Pet beds
Pet cleaning supplies & poop bags
Leashes & harnesses
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Business portion of phone & accessories
Rain & snow gear
Walking shoes
Advertising (online or print)

Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Electricians

Electrical classes
Licensing & fees
Insurance (business, general liability, worker’s compensation)
Uniform & work clothes (hard hats, vest, boots, protective gear)
Safety equipment
Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.

Tools & equipment (hand tools, wiring, outlets, etc.)
Depreciation of long-life equipment
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Hairdressers, stylists & barbers

Rent
Supplies
Education and classes
Uniform
Towels & smocks
Licensing, fees & dues
Advertising (online or print)
Accounting softare
Business bank account & credit card fees

Business phone & accessories
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Music & magazine subscriptions
Hair products & chemicals
Hair tools & equipment
Depreciation of long-life equipment
Wages & employee benefits
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Independent consultants & freelancers

Continuing education
Legal fees
Software (accounting software, service software subscriptions)
Advertising (online or print)
Marketing materials & business cards
Website development/maintenance
Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.

Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Influencers & content creators

Prizes for giveaways
Personalized merchandise
App fees
Advertising
Website development/maintenance
Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Office supplies
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.

Business bank account & credit card fees
Electronics
Conference expenses
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Landscaping & lawn care

Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Insurance (landscaping, liability, commercial auto, worker’s compensation)
Uniform & work clothes (vest, boots, protective gear)
Supplies (earth, plants, fertilizers)
Tools & equipment (lawnmowers, tree trimming tools, etc.)
Depreciation of long-life equipment

Supply & equipment storage fees
Salaries, wages & employee benefits
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Life & business coaches

Education (certifications, online courses, professional development)
Conference expenses (booth fees, materials)
Office supplies
Office furniture
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Business portion of phone & accessories
Advertising/marketing
Software (coaching software, accounting software)
Website development/maintenance

Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Make-up artists

Membership fees
Make-up kit supplies
Make-up products, brushes, & sponges
Promotional goodies
Business portion of phone & accessories
Education & classes
Licenses & fees
Business bank account & credit card fees
Accounting software

Website development/maintenance
Conference expenses (booth, supplies)
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Massage therapists

Training, membership & certifications
Supplies (oils & lotions)
Equipment (towel heaters, massage furniture, hot stones)
Spa or studio rent
Music streaming apps
Website development/maintenance
Accounting software
Legal fees
Business bank account & credit card fees

Advertising (online or print)
Business portion of phone, accessories & internet
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Medical professionals

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Accounting software
Business bank account & credit card fees
Clinic rent or leasing costs
Office supplies
Office equipment
Medical equipment
Medical uniforms (scrubs)
Board exam fees

License fees
Professional membership dues
Subscription fees for professional publications
Continuing education
Malpractice insurance premiums
Staff wages, salaries, taxes withheld and employee benefits
Mileage for home visits
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.
Travel for conferences or seminars
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Models

Self promotion material
Agency commissions
Make-up products, brushes, & sponges
Coaching & classes
Business porton of phone, bill & accessories
Business bank account & credit card fees
Portfolio expenses
Casting site fees
Manager fees

Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Union dues
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Musicians & bands

Musical instrument & carrying case
Editing software
Equipment (microphone, amps, cords)
Advertising (online or print)
Business bank account & credit card fees
Streaming services fee
Commission fees
Professional fees (managers, agents, lawyers, accountants)
Subscriptions & memberships

Recording studio fees
Home office (home studio)
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Nail technicians & manicurists

Licensing & fees
Advertising (online or print)
Accounting software
Business bank account & credit card fees
Uniforms
Supplies (nail polish, decor, nail clippers, nail filers, carrying case)
Education & classes
Rent
Business portion of phone, bill & accessories

Dues & subscriptions
Web development/maintenance
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Online merchants (e.g. Ebay, Etsy, Amazon)

Advertising
Shipping & packaging
Merchant services fees
Website development/maintenance
Commissions paid
Software (email, accounting software)
Materials & supplies
Photography expenses
Electronics

Equipment (scanners, scales, shipping labels)
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Package & food delivery drivers

Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Courier & hot bags
Commission fees
Uniform & merchandise
Parking & tolls
Car maintenance
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Personal trainers & fitness consultants

Exercise equipment
Advertising (online or print)
Certifications & education
Professional fees
Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Memberships
Supplements & shakes for clients
Website development/maintenance

Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Photographers & videographers

Photography equipment (lights, backdrops, tripods, stands, carrying cases)
Software (video, editing, accounting software)
Advertising (online or print)
Business cards
Electronics (computer, laptops, tablets)
Video equipment
Stock photo/video platform fees
Studio expenses
Data storage

Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Website development/maintenance
Travel
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Plumbers & repair persons

Plumbing classes
Licensing, memberships & fees
Uniform & work clothes
Business insurance
Business bank account & credit card fees
Safety equipment
Advertising (online or print)
Professional services (legal, accounting)
Website development/maintenance

Tools & equipment
Supplies & materials
Contractor wages
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Private tutors

Electronics (computer, tablet, keyboard, mouse, monitor etc)
Business portion of phone & accessories
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Education supplies
Rewards for clients
Chalk or whiteboards
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Business bank account & credit card fees
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Production assistants

Equipment
Production materials
Travel expenses
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.
Production costs
Decor & staging furniture
Business bank account & credit card fees
Commission fees
Website development/maintenance
Business portion of phone & accessories

Business portion of phone & internet bill
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Realtors & real estate brokers

Licensing & membership fees
Education & training
Property marketing (online or print)
Association dues, MLS dues, brokerage desk fees
Commissions paid
Office supplies
Business portion of phone & internet bill
Business portion of phone & accessories
Home staging & decor fees

Client gifts ($25 limit per client)
Website development/maintenance
Professional services (legal, accounting)
Business bank account & credit card fees
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Restaurant owners

Rent, lease, mortgage interest
Kitchen equipment, dishes, utensils, take-out containers
Furniture, property improvements
Costs of goods sold (food costs)
Employee salaries & benefits
Professional services (accounting, software, payment processing, legal)
Website development/maintenance
Business bank account & credit card fees
Marketing & advertising

Liability insurance
Office supplies
Uniforms
Mileage for deliveries and grocery shopping
Maintenance & cleaning

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Rideshare drivers (e.g. Uber, Lyft)

Car wash & cleaning
Business portion of phone, bill & accessories
Passenger goodies
Car maintenance
Insurance & registration
Parking & tolls
Gas
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Roofers & roofing repair

Roofing classes
Licensing & fees
Uniform & work clothes (harness, vest, boots, protective gear)
Tools & safety equipment
Business insurance
Professional services (accounting, legal)
Website development/maintenance
Business bank account & credit card fees
Advertising (online or print)

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Truck drivers

Tax & licensing fees (heavy highway vehicle use tax, commercial driver license)
Insurance (commercial auto liability, property damage, cargo insurance)
Business bank account & credit card fees
Accounting software
Office supplies
Tools & equipment
PPE (safety gloves, goggles, HAZMAT clothing)
Business portion of phone & accessories (radio, GPS)
Business portion of phone & internet bill

Professional expenses (medical exams, association dues, training)
Meals
Meals
Not all business meals are 100% deductible. Read our business meals and entertainment guide for the complete breakdown.
Travel (tolls, lodging, showers, laundry)
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Vacation rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo, Vacasa)

Cleaning & maintenance fees
Furnishings (appliances, furniture, household supplies)
Marketing & advertising
Listing site commissions, subscriptions & fees
Business portion of phone & internet
Professional services (accounting, legal)
Mortgage interest, insurance, taxes (based on % of property used for rental)
Business bank account & credit card fees
Travel (to check/maintain your property)
Travel
To write off travel expenses, the IRS requires that the primary purpose of the trip needs to be for business purposes. Our travel expenses deduction guide details how to ensure your travel qualifies as a business trip and what expenses can be claimed.

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Web & graphic designers

Software (design software, accounting software)
Advertising
Marketing material
Electronics (computer, laptop, tablet)
Data storage
Business portion of phone & accessories
Classes/conferences
Website development/maintenance
Business bank account & credit card fees

Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Wedding & event planners

Phone & accessories
Event location costs
Website development/maintenance
Advertising (online or print)
Marketing materials
Professional services (accounting, legal)
Business bank account & credit card fees
Contracted labor, employees & services (florists, balloon artist, servers, bartenders)
Subscriptions & memberships

Wedding expos & conferences
Event rental equipment (decor, furniture, tables, plates, chairs)
Business portion of phone & accessories
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Here are common self-employment expenses for:

Yoga & wellness instructors

Studio rent
Studio supplies
Certification & membership fees
Music & music subscriptions
Aromatheraphy, oils & supplements
Yoga teaching apparel
Classes, training & workshops
Insurance (malpractice, liability)
Professional services (accounting, legal)

Business bank account & credit card fees
Advertising (online or print)
Website development/maintenance
Home office
Home office
To qualify for the home office deduction you must have a dedicated space used regularly and solely for business purposes. For more details on qualifications, including what expenses can be claimed, view our home office deduction guide.
Mileage & vehicle expenses
Mileage & vehicle expenses
If you use a vehicle for business purposes, the amount you can deduct depends on how much you use your car for business versus personal purposes. Read about the associated tax deductions you’ll want to take in our guide to deducting auto expenses.

Unsure if you're catching every deduction? Our pros can.

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Use our tax deductions calculator to track your small business write-offs

Running a small business means keeping track of every dollar—especially when it comes to tax deductions. Understanding and properly calculating your deductions can make a significant difference in your tax liability and bottom line. While tracking expenses throughout the year might seem overwhelming, having the right tools makes this essential task manageable and precise.

Small business tax deductions 101

A tax deduction is an expense you can legally subtract from your business income. Tax deductions (aka write-offs) effectively reduce your taxable income, which lowers your overall tax liability and annual tax bill. Understanding your eligible tax deductions in relation to your business practices is crucial for maximizing your net business income and managing your federal and state taxes effectively.

Some of the most common tax deductions for small businesses include:
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Home office expenses: You can deduct a portion of your rent, utilities, and other expenses based on the percentage of your home only if your home is used to carry out official business. Learn more about deducting these expenses in our guide to home office deductions.
Auto expenses: You can also track your mileage and some vehicle-related costs in relation to the business-use of your vehicle. Check out our step-by-step guide to maximizing deductible auto expenses.
Travel expenses: Travel a lot for work? There are several costs for business trips, including accommodations, transportation, and meals, that can be counted as business travel write-offs.
Insurance premiums: In most cases, you can also deduct health insurance, liability coverage, and other business-related insurance costs.
Advertising and marketing: You likely incur a lot of expenses for promoting your business, including digital marketing and traditional advertising—most of these costs can be written off as well.

As a small business owner, you may be missing out on some significant write-offs to help lower your tax bill—and that's where Bench comes in. Our tax experts and bookkeeping services ensure all your business expenses are properly categorized meaning you can rest easy know every single deduction available to you is maximized.

Come tax time, our bookkeeping professionals prepare a year-end financial package that has all the information you need to file your taxes, or we can do your filing for you! Learn more.

Why keeping track of your tax deductions is necessary

Maintaining accurate records of your tax deductions using Schedule A (Form 1040) as a small business owner is essential for several reasons.

First, it helps you maximize your take-home pay by ensuring you don't miss any eligible deductions during tax time.

Second, accurate tracking protects you during potential audits by providing documentation for your itemized deductions.

Lastly, keeping efficient records of your write-offs and understanding the threshold for how much each item can be deducted can give you an idea of your tax savings. You can think of your tax savings as the difference between what you would pay on business expenses and what you actually have to pay with the proper deductions. This is money you can then reinvest back into your business.

Using a tax deduction calculator like Bench's is the first step to maintaining organized records throughout the year, making it easier to file taxes and avoid issues with your tax return.
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How to use our small business tax deduction calculator

Bench's tax deduction calculator streamlines the process of identifying and tracking your deductions.

Simply select your profession, and the calculator generates a comprehensive list of deductions you may qualify for based on the business-related expenses that are typical in your industry.

Review your records and receipts against this list to determine your eligible deductions.
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Maximizing your tax deductions as a small business owner

‍When it comes to maximizing your tax deductions as a small business owner, it’s always best to consult with a tax professional who can offer you advice tailored to your specific business expenses and entity.

In the meantime, keep these dos and don’ts in mind when tracking and calculating your write-offs:

Dos:

Maintain detailed records of all business expenses throughout the year
Keep separate business and personal accounts to track business and personal expenses
Review your standard deduction against potential itemized deductions quarterly
Consider timing major purchases to maximize tax benefits
Consult with a tax professional about available business tax credits and the earned income tax credit

Don't:
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Mix personal and business expenses when calculating deductions
Wait until tax time to organize receipts and documentation
Forget to keep all receipts (digital or physical) for business-related expenses
Miss deadlines for estimated tax payments
Assume all business expenses qualify as tax deductions

Start maximizing your deductions today with Bench's tax deduction calculator

Don't let another tax year pass without optimizing your tax situation. Try our tax deductions calculator today to identify potential savings and better manage your tax bill, and see what our small business tax experts can do for you year-round.
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Note: This tax deductions calculator is for U.S. businesses only.

Catch every deduction with our tax experts on your books

Bench Accounting offers bookkeeping and income tax services for small businesses. We handle your bookkeeping, tax filing, tax planning, and advisory.
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Sign up today and we’ll do one prior month of your bookkeeping and prepare a set of financial statements for free, valued at $299.

From the bench blog

Learn more about tax deductions

How to Reduce Your Tax Bill with Itemized Deductions

Here's what you need to know about itemized deductions, the standard deduction, and how to choose between them when preparing your tax return.

Schedule A (Form 1040): A Guide to the Itemized Deduction

You must fill out Schedule A if you choose to itemize your deductions instead of taking the standard deduction. This guide walks through how to correctly fill it out.

Tax Credits vs. Tax Deductions: Keys to a Lower Tax Bill

If you want to reduce your tax bill, get familiar with tax credits and tax deductions. Which one will save you the most money? Here, we break down the difference between tax credits and deductions so you can start putting in the work to minimize your tax bill now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What about personal tax deductions? Can I claim those too?

Yes! Individual filers filing Form 1040 can also claim tax deductions on expenses not related to their business. Common personal tax deductions include:

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Charitable contributions
Child and dependent care expenses
Retirement contributions
Health care expenses, including medical and dental
Property tax and home mortgage interest
Student loan interest

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For full details visit our guide to personal tax deductions and credits.

What if I don't have receipts for all my expenses? Can I still claim the deduction?

While most tax deductions require receipts or documentation, there are some tax deductions you can take without receipts. Note that you should keep receipts for all business expenses you want to deduct whenever possible.

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Here's a list of deductions that you don't need receipts for (though you will need other forms of documentation):

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Self-employment taxes
Home office expenses
Self-employed health insurance premiums
Self-employed retirement plan contributions
Vehicle expenses
Cell phone expenses

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Read our full guide on tax deductions you can claim without receipts to learn how to properly navigate claiming these deductions.

Take bookkeeping and tax off your plate, for good.

Maximize your business's financial health with Bench Accounting. Enjoy a free month of expert bookkeeping and focus on growth, not numbers.

Small business owner looks at their profit and loss statement in their Bench account.