Most freelancers remember the obvious write-offs — a laptop, software subscriptions, a share of the phone bill. The money left on the table is usually in the categories that feel too small, too complicated or too personal to count.
The seven we see missed most
- Home office. The simplified method allows $5 per square foot, up to 300 square feet.
- Self-employed health insurance. Premiums for you and your family come off income, not just itemized deductions.
- Half of self-employment tax. It is deducted automatically only if your return is prepared correctly.
- Retirement contributions. A SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k) can shelter far more than a regular IRA.
- Business mileage. Trips to clients, the bank and the post office all count.
- Education. Courses that maintain or improve skills in your current work are deductible.
- Bank and payment fees. Platform and processing fees add up quickly.
Keep a simple log as you go. A spreadsheet with the date, amount and purpose is enough to support every one of these if the IRS ever asks.
