SwapnaM
Employee Tax Expert

Self employed

To determine whether you can deduct an expense, ask yourself: Is this expense both ordinary and necessary to the business? The IRS requires both elements.

  1. An expense is ordinary if it is common and accepted in your industry.
  2. An expense is necessary if it is helpful and appropriate for your business.

You can write off a wide variety of business expenses you paid during the year, including things like:

  • Advertising costs
  • Commissions
  • Supplies
  • Legal fees
  • Repairs and maintenance
  • office expenses
  • Home Office
  • Vehicle expenses

This is where good record keeping can really save you money on your taxes.

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