As an independent artist, you're not just a creator of beautiful things, but also a business owner. That means you can take advantage of tax deductions that can help you save money and invest more in your craft. Here's a list of potential write-offs you might not have considered.
Art classes are a great way to refine your skills and learn new techniques. Whether you're taking a pottery class or learning digital illustration, these costs can add up. But the good news is, they're considered a business expense.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
Staying informed about the latest trends in the art world is crucial for your business. Subscriptions to art magazines can help you do just that. Plus, they can be written off as a business expense.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Whether you rent a studio or pay fees to use a shared space, these costs are a necessary part of your work as an artist. They're also a deductible business expense.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 20b.
From paintbrushes to clay, the cost of art supplies can add up quickly. But don't fret, these are considered cost of goods sold (COGS) and can be deducted on your tax return.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 38.
Meeting with clients or collaborators over a meal? You can write off 50% of your meal expenses as long as the meal is business-related.
How to write it off: Include these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24b.
If you use your car for business purposes, such as delivering artwork or driving to art shows, you can deduct a portion of your car insurance and registration fees.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 15.
Keeping your vehicle in top shape is crucial when you use it for business. You can deduct expenses related to car maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 9.
If you've purchased a car primarily for business use, you can write off a portion of the cost. You can also deduct the depreciation of the car over time.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 13.
If you hire assistants to help with your art projects, their wages are a deductible business expense. This can include anyone from a photography assistant to a graphic design intern.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Schedule C, Box 11.
Attending cultural events and museums can provide inspiration for your work. These outings can be considered research and are deductible.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you use design software for your art business, the cost is deductible. This includes both the initial purchase price and any subscription fees.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18.
Framing can enhance your artwork and make it more marketable. The cost of frames and framing supplies can be written off as a business expense.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 22.
If you pay fees to display your work in a gallery, these costs are deductible. This can include entry fees, booth rental fees, and commission fees.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Schedule C, Box 10.
If you use part of your home as your art studio, you can deduct a portion of the cost of furniture used in that space. This can include desks, chairs, and storage units.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 18.
If you travel for your art business, you can deduct 50% of your meal costs while on the road. This can include meals while attending art shows, conferences, or meeting with clients.
How to write it off: Include these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a.
Parking fees can add up, especially if you're attending art shows or meeting with clients in the city. These costs can be written off as a business expense.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you're a photographer or use photography in your work, you may pay for photo storage services. These costs are deductible.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18.
If you use part of your home as your art studio, you can deduct a portion of your power bill. This includes electricity used for lighting, heating, and powering your equipment.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Form 8829.
If you have insurance on your home or studio, you can deduct a portion of the cost. This can include coverage for fire, theft, and other types of damage.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Form 8829.
If you make repairs to your home or studio that are necessary for your business, these costs are deductible. This can include fixing a leaky roof or repairing a broken window.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 21.
If you travel for your business and incur toll charges, these costs can be written off. This includes tolls for bridges, tunnels, and highways.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Whether you're driving to an art show or taking a train to meet a client, your transportation costs are deductible. This includes gas, train tickets, and even airfare.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 24a.
If you travel overnight for your business, you can deduct the cost of your lodging. This includes hotels, motels, and even Airbnb rentals.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Schedule C, Box 24a.
If you need a tool kit for your vehicle for business purposes, such as for setting up at art shows, the cost is deductible.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 22.
If you use water in your home studio for your art business, you can deduct a portion of your water bill. This can include water used for cleaning brushes or mixing paints.
How to write it off: Include these costs on Form 8829.
As an artist, you likely use the internet for research, marketing, and selling your work. You can deduct a portion of your Wi-Fi bill as a business expense.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 25.