06/05/2026
"I can write off everything for my business." I hear this one a lot, and I completely understand why. There's so much conflicting information out there, and honestly, it sounds like it should be true. But here's what the IRS actually requires.
Every legitimate business deduction has to pass a two-part test: it must be ordinary (common and accepted in your industry) and necessary (helpful and appropriate for your business). Both boxes have to be checked.
That means software you use every day for work? Deductible. Marketing and advertising? Deductible. Your bookkeeper or accountant? Absolutely deductible.
But personal expenses run through the business, claiming your personal vehicle is 100% for business, or writing off meals without any documented business purpose? Those are the things that create problems down the road.
The good news: you don't have to be afraid of deductions. You just have to document them. Keep your receipts, note the business purpose, and track consistently. The goal isn't to deduct everything, it's to confidently deduct everything you're actually entitled to.
Questions about what qualifies for your business? Drop them in the comments!
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