Stop Guessing: Here’s What You Can Actually Claim and Deduct as Business Expenses

If you're a small business owner or self-employed professional, you've probably wondered at some point:
"Can I deduct this on my taxes?"

With so much conflicting information online (and some truly wild advice floating around TikTok), it's easy to get confused — or worse, make deductions that could raise red flags with the IRS. So let’s clear it up.

Here’s what you can legally deduct according to the IRS — no guesswork, just facts.

What Is a Deductible Business Expense?

The IRS defines deductible business expenses as:

"Ordinary and necessary expenses paid or incurred during the taxable year in carrying on any trade or business."
(Source: IRS Publication 535)

• Ordinary = common and accepted in your industry

• Necessary = helpful and appropriate for your business

If your expense checks both boxes, it may be deductible.

Common Deductions You Can Claim

Here’s a breakdown of what you can actually write off as a business expense:

1. Home Office Deduction

If you're self-employed and use part of your home regularly and exclusively for business, you may qualify.

- This doesn’t apply to W-2 employees working remotely.

2. Office Supplies & Equipment

Things like paper, pens, computers, printers, and software subscriptions used for business are deductible.

3. Business Meals

You can deduct 50% of business meals — as long as they’re not lavish and are directly tied to business discussions.

4. Travel Expenses

Airfare, hotels, car rentals, and even some meals during business travel can be deducted.

5. Phone & Internet

If you use your phone or internet partly for business, you can deduct that portion.

6. Marketing & Advertising

From Instagram ads to website hosting and business cards — they’re all deductible if they promote your business.

7. Contract Labor

Did you pay a freelance designer, accountant, or virtual assistant? That’s a deductible business expense.