Little Trick to Write Off Miscellaneous Expenses

When we include our tax deductions, we must always remember the Big Four: Mortgage interest, State income taxes, Real estate taxes and Charitable contributions. John and Edith, a couple starting a business, had this in mind and they were also aware that 2017 was the last year to be able to write off Miscellaneous Expenses on Schedule A.

The Tax Cut and Jobs Act (TCJA) suspends Miscellaneous Expense deductions, but there is still a potential for getting these tax deductions. The couple knows this, because they sought assistance from their tax professional.

If you free-lance, earn side work, or have your own business you can still write off many items that are currently lost for employees. Having your own business allows you to write off any expense that is used for the business. Try to earn non-employee (self-employed) income from free-lance or side work and you can write off many, if not all the expenses listed below.

Internal Revenue Section 162 allows for any expense of operating a business that is reasonable and ordinary. Be sure to check with your state rules, where they might be allowed, too!

Some business deductions are as follows:

• Tax Preparation, Consultation, investment, or planning fees for business
• Advertising, marketing, website creation and maintenance fees
• Auto expenses (be sure to keep a logbook, if you use the vehicle for both business and personal trips) No logbook, No deduction!
• Bank Fees and credit card processing fees
• Communication Expenses (phones, internet, data plans)
• Dues, Professional organizations and groups
• Education to improve your existing knowledge in a business (Not allowed if it prepares you for a new career or job, or a new professional license).
• Equipment purchased or repaired and maintained
• Health insurance premiums (includes Medicare insurance)
• Home Office expenses (you can have more than one office)
• Legal, accounting or other professional fees to manage or defend your income (professional athletes get to deduct fines they pay to their leagues for misconduct.)
• License Fees and renewals
• Office equipment and supplies
• Payroll and sub-contractor expenses
• Printing, postage, and shipping costs
• Travel, transportation and lodging expenses (many expenses here that you wouldn’t think of)
• Uniforms and laundry expenses
• Qualified Business Income deduction
• Check with azmoneyguy, or your tax advisor, to see if your situation and circumstances allow you to deduct business expenses.

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