Can I Deduct This?
Let's Find Out.
Search any expense and get instant, plain-language answers about deductibility. Proof checklists. CPA questions. No jargon.
Search the Deduction Library
Type any expense below. We'll tell you the deduction likelihood, what you need, and what to ask your CPA.
Common Deductions at a Glance
| Expense | Deductible? | Key Requirement | Common For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Office | Sometimes | Exclusive, regular business use | Freelancers, Remote Workers |
| Internet/WiFi | Sometimes | Business-use percentage | Remote Workers, Side Hustlers |
| Phone Bill | Sometimes | Business vs. personal split | Freelancers, Gig Workers |
| Mileage | Likely | Business driving log | Gig Workers, Sales, Freelancers |
| Office Supplies | Likely | Business use | All Business Types |
| Software/Subscriptions | Sometimes | Business purpose | Freelancers, Creatives |
| Business Meals | Sometimes | Business discussion documented | Client-Facing Roles |
| Education/Courses | Sometimes | Maintains current skills | All Professionals |
| Childcare | Sometimes | Enables you to work | Working Parents |
| Charitable Donations | Likely | Qualified 501(c)(3) | All Itemizers |
| Gym Membership | Rarely | Must be fitness professional | Trainers, Athletes |
| Clothing | Rarely | Unsuitable for daily wear | Performers, Uniforms |
This is educational content only. Always consult a qualified CPA for your specific tax situation.
Plain Language
How Tax Deductions Actually Work
A deduction reduces the amount of income you're taxed on. It's not a dollar-for-dollar refund — but it can save you real money.
- Standard vs. Itemized: You choose one. The standard deduction is a flat amount. Itemizing lists individual expenses.
- Business Deductions: If you're self-employed or have a side business, you can deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses.
- Documentation is Key: Keep receipts, logs, and records. The IRS wants proof.
- Mixed-Use: Many expenses (phone, internet, car) are partially deductible based on business use percentage.
- When in Doubt: Ask a CPA. Our tool gives you the right questions to ask.
The Universal Proof Checklist
No matter the deduction, these documentation habits will protect you.
Always Keep
Original receipts (paper or digital)
Bank/credit card statements
Mileage logs with dates and purposes
Business purpose notes for each expense
Invoices and contracts
For Each Expense, Record
Date of the expense
Amount paid
Who you paid (vendor/merchant)
Business purpose
Business use percentage (if mixed)
Deduction FAQ
I'm not a business owner. Can I still have deductions?
Yes. You may qualify for itemized deductions (medical expenses, charitable donations, state/local taxes) even without a business. And if you do any freelance or side work, you may have business deductions too.
What's the difference between a deduction and a credit?
A deduction reduces your taxable income. A credit reduces your actual tax bill dollar-for-dollar. Credits are more valuable, but deductions are more common for everyday expenses.
How do I know my business-use percentage?
Track your usage honestly. For a phone, estimate the percentage of calls/data used for business. For a home office, measure square footage. For a car, log business miles. The IRS accepts reasonable estimates with documentation.
Should I itemize or take the standard deduction?
If your total itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction ($14,600 for single filers in 2024), itemizing saves you more. Business deductions (Schedule C) are separate and you take them regardless. A CPA can run both scenarios for you.
Every deduction found is money saved.
Start searching. Start documenting. Start saving.