(And a Few You Absolutely Can’t)

Tax time can feel like trying to solve a riddle written by an evil wizard with a calculator. But knowing what deductions you can (and can’t) take turns that riddle into a roadmap—one that leads to less tax pain and maybe even a refund.

Surprising deductions you can take:

• Home office expenses (if used exclusively for business—so your cat’s gaming nook doesn’t count)

• Startup costs (up to $5,000 in your first year—yes, even if your LLC still lives in your garage)

• Continuing education (as long as it maintains or improves your skills—so, that TikTok course? Probably not)

Things you can’t deduct (even if you wish):

• Clothes you wear to work (unless it’s a branded uniform or costume—sorry, fancy shoes don’t count)

• Personal meals disguised as “client development” (your date doesn’t count as a client)

• Gym memberships “for stress reduction” (nice try though)

Best practices to actually use your deductions:

• Keep detailed records (receipts, logs, explanations)

• Use accounting software with category tagging

• Ask your accountant before you buy that massage chair “for the office”

✅ Funny Tip: If you’re wondering whether it’s deductible, ask: “Would I explain this to an IRS agent with a straight face?”