If I do not 1099 a contractor because I paid them less than $600, can I still right off the pay as an expense for the business? Thanks!

[Carl]

Yes. You are required to claim all business expenses regardless of the amount, and it doesn't matter if a 1099-MISC is required or not.

[Cat69]

How and where do I claim money paid to a contractor for work less than $600?

[VolvoGirl]

Was this for your business?  You can only enter it as an expense on Schedule C for self employment.  You don't need to give them a 1099NEC for less than 600.

That is Contract Labor on Schedule C line 11.  How to enter Contract Labor

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/entering-importing/help/how-do-i-enter-contract-labor/00/27407