Unexpected Business Tax Deductions You Can Write Off

Still, many business owners miss out on these opportunities simply because they don’t know what qualifies. Understanding lesser-known business tax deductions can make a huge difference in your bottom line, freeing up cash for growth, payroll, or reinvestment.

This guide dives into some of the most surprising tax deductions available to small business owners, helping you answer the question: “Can I write that off?”

Why Knowing Your Deductions Matters

Missing deductions means paying more taxes than necessary. Even small expenses add up, especially for small or growing businesses where cash flow matters most. On the flip side, claiming deductions incorrectly can trigger IRS red flags or penalties.

That’s why awareness is key. Knowing what you can legitimately write off, and maintaining proper documentation, helps you maximize savings while staying compliant.

The Basics: How Business Tax Deductions Work

A business tax deduction lowers your taxable income by allowing you to subtract eligible expenses from your revenue. The IRS defines deductible expenses as both ordinary (common in your industry) and necessary (helpful and appropriate for business operations).

For example, a landscaper buying tools is making an ordinary and necessary expense. A bakery purchasing a new oven fits the same rule. But what about the less obvious costs, the ones that blur the line between personal and business use? Let’s explore those next.

List of Business Write-Offs: Small Business Tax Deductions

1. Home Internet and Cell Phone Usage

If you work remotely or run a home-based business, part of your internet and cell phone bill may qualify as a deduction. You can’t deduct the personal portion, but if you use 60% of your service for business purposes, that 60% is typically deductible.

Example: A freelance designer who spends most of her time emailing clients, uploading files, and managing social media can reasonably write off a portion of her home internet costs.

2. Pet Expenses (Yes, Sometimes!)

This one surprises people, but it’s true—if your animal serves a legitimate business purpose, related expenses may qualify. For example, a guard dog protecting a warehouse or yard could justify deductions for food, veterinary care, and training.

Important: Documentation is key. You’ll need to prove the animal serves a business function, not just companionship.

3. Software Subscriptions and Digital Tools

In today’s digital world, online platforms and tools are essential for nearly every business. Project management apps, cloud storage, cybersecurity programs, and design software are all deductible.

Example: If you pay monthly fees for QuickBooks, Canva, Zoom, or Dropbox, those subscriptions qualify as business write-offs under technology expenses.

4. Home Office Upgrades

Working from home? The IRS allows you to deduct a portion of your housing expenses, including utilities, rent, or mortgage interest—if you use part of your home exclusively for business. Beyond that, you can also write off improvements made to your home office space, such as ergonomic furniture, paint, or even lighting.

Example: Buying a new desk chair to improve posture while working from home counts as a deductible expense.

5. Education and Training

Courses, webinars, conferences, and even books that help you improve skills related to your business are deductible. Whether you’re learning new marketing tactics, industry regulations, or leadership strategies, the IRS considers these “continuing education” expenses.

Example: A real estate agent attending a certification course or subscribing to industry journals can deduct those costs as professional development.

6. Business Meals With Purpose

You can’t deduct extravagant dinners, but if you’re meeting clients, vendors, or partners to discuss business, 50% of that meal is typically deductible. The key is keeping detailed records: who attended, what was discussed, and where the meeting occurred.

Example: Grabbing lunch with a supplier to negotiate pricing on materials qualifies, as long as the meeting was business-related.

7. Marketing and Branding Expenses

Most businesses know they can deduct advertising costs, but this category is broader than many realize. Social media ads, website hosting fees, photography, branded merchandise, and even your logo design are deductible.

Example: A boutique that pays for influencer marketing campaigns or hires a photographer for product images can deduct those costs as promotional expenses.

8. Professional Memberships and Subscriptions

If you pay dues for trade associations, chambers of commerce, or professional networks, those are deductible. The same goes for subscriptions to industry magazines or online trade publications.

These expenses demonstrate your commitment to staying current and connected in your field.

9. Equipment and Vehicle Purchases (Section 179)

If you recently launched your business, you can typically deduct up to $5,000 in startup expenses, things like legal fees, website creation, and initial marketing costs. If your startup costs exceed $5,000, the remainder can be amortized over time.

Example: A new consulting firm that invests in branding, software, and registration fees can deduct those early-stage expenses.

10. Startup Costs

If you recently launched your business, you can typically deduct up to $5,000 in startup expenses, things like legal fees, website creation, and initial marketing costs. If your startup costs exceed $5,000, the remainder can be amortized over time.

Example: A new consulting firm that invests in branding, software, and registration fees can deduct those early-stage expenses.

Common Questions Business Owners Ask

Can I deduct my home internet if I work remotely?

Yes, the business-use portion of your internet is deductible, but you must estimate the percentage used for work.

What about clothing?

Clothing that doubles as everyday wear doesn’t qualify, but uniforms or branded apparel worn exclusively for business can.

Can I write off my car payments?

Not directly, but you can deduct mileage or actual expenses related to business use. Keep detailed logs to substantiate your claim.

Can I deduct coffee or snacks at the office?

Yes, if they’re for your team or clients as part of regular business operations.

Learn effective business tax strategies to save money before year-end. From planning to deductions, these tips help reduce liability and improve cash flow.

Learn More

How a CPA Helps You Maximize Deductions

A CPA does more than prepare returns—they help you plan strategically. By reviewing your spending habits, they can identify deductions you’ve missed, ensure compliance with evolving tax laws, and develop proactive strategies for the coming year.

Working with a professional also adds peace of mind. Rather than guessing what’s deductible, you’ll have clear, documented guidance that keeps you both compliant and confident.

Take Control of Your Tax Savings Before It’s Too Late

Knowing what you can and can’t deduct is one of the easiest ways to improve your business’s financial health. When you understand how deductions work, and partner with professionals who know how to apply them, you keep more of what you earn and minimize tax season stress.

Always consult your CPA or tax professional before applying any deductions.

Ready to find out what your business is eligible to write off? Contact Manley Garvin LLC today to schedule your tax planning consultation and learn about our tax services.

Can I Write Off That? A Business Owner’s Guide to Unexpected Tax Deductions

Why Knowing Your Deductions Matters

The Basics: How Business Tax Deductions Work

List of Business Write-Offs: Small Business Tax Deductions

1. Home Internet and Cell Phone Usage

2. Pet Expenses (Yes, Sometimes!)

3. Software Subscriptions and Digital Tools

4. Home Office Upgrades

5. Education and Training

6. Business Meals With Purpose

7. Marketing and Branding Expenses

8. Professional Memberships and Subscriptions

9. Equipment and Vehicle Purchases (Section 179)

10. Startup Costs

Common Questions Business Owners Ask

Can I deduct my home internet if I work remotely?

What about clothing?

Can I write off my car payments?

Can I deduct coffee or snacks at the office?

How a CPA Helps You Maximize Deductions

Take Control of Your Tax Savings Before It’s Too Late

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