Being a self-employed notary or signing agent can be a rewarding career, but it also comes with its fair share of expenses. Thankfully, Uncle Sam is on your side and allows you to deduct many of these costs on your tax return. Here are some of the most common tax write-offs and deductions that notaries and signing agents can claim.
Business cards are a crucial tool for networking and attracting new clients. They're a tangible reminder of your services and can be a great way to make a lasting impression. Plus, they're fully deductible as a business expense.
How to write it off: Report this expense on Schedule C, Box 8 of your tax return.
Whether it's a lunch meeting with a potential client or a dinner to discuss a contract, business meals are a common expense for notaries and signing agents. Just remember to keep your receipts and note the business purpose of the meal.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24b.
As a notary or signing agent, you're often on the road meeting clients. This means your car insurance and registration are necessary business expenses. Make sure to keep track of these costs throughout the year.
How to write it off: Claim these expenses on Schedule C, Box 15.
Keeping your vehicle in top shape is essential for those who travel frequently for work. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, can add up but are deductible.
How to write it off: Deduct these costs on Schedule C, Box 9.
If you've purchased a car primarily for business use, you can deduct the cost over time through depreciation. This can be a significant deduction, especially in the first few years of owning the vehicle.
How to write it off: Report this on Schedule C, Box 13.
Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and regulations is crucial for notaries and signing agents. The cost of continuing education classes can be deducted as a business expense.
How to write it off: Claim these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is a must-have for notaries and signing agents. It protects you in case a client claims your work caused them financial loss. Luckily, the premiums are tax-deductible.
How to write it off: Deduct these costs on Schedule C, Box 15.
If you work from home, the cost of office furniture like desks, chairs, and filing cabinets can be deducted. Just make sure the furniture is used exclusively for your business.
How to write it off: Claim these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18.
As a notary or signing agent, you're required to maintain a valid license. The cost of obtaining and renewing your license is tax-deductible.
How to write it off: Report these costs on Schedule C, Box 23.
If you're traveling for work and need to eat on the go, those meals can be deducted. Just remember, only 50% of the cost of meals is deductible.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a.
Membership in professional organizations like the National Notary Association (NNA) can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities. Plus, the cost of membership is deductible.
How to write it off: Claim this expense on Schedule C, Box 27a.
From paper and pens to printer ink and staplers, office supplies are a necessary expense for notaries and signing agents. Keep your receipts and deduct these costs on your tax return.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18.
Parking fees can add up, especially if you're frequently meeting clients in areas with paid parking. These costs are fully deductible as a business expense.
How to write it off: Deduct these costs on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Your phone is likely a crucial tool for your business, from scheduling appointments to communicating with clients. The cost of your phone, as well as any necessary accessories, can be deducted.
How to write it off: Claim these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you work from home, a portion of your power bill can be deducted as a home office expense. The amount you can deduct depends on the size of your home office compared to your entire home.
How to write it off: Report this expense on Form 8829.
Software that helps you stay organized and efficient is a must for notaries and signing agents. Whether it's scheduling software, document management tools, or accounting apps, these costs can be deducted.
How to write it off: Deduct these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18.
If you work from home, a portion of your property insurance can be deducted as a home office expense. This can include insurance for your home or rental property.
How to write it off: Report this expense on Form 8829.
Repairs to your home office or business property are deductible. This can include anything from fixing a leaky faucet to repairing a broken window.
How to write it off: Claim these expenses on Schedule C, Box 21.
If your work requires a lot of driving, tolls can quickly add up. The good news is, these costs are fully deductible as a business expense.
How to write it off: Deduct these costs on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Whether it's driving to meet a client or taking a train to a business meeting, transportation costs are a common expense for notaries and signing agents. These costs can be deducted on your tax return.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a.
If your work requires overnight travel, the cost of your hotel or other lodging can be deducted. Just remember to keep detailed records of these expenses.
How to write it off: Deduct these costs on Schedule C, Box 24a.
A vehicle tool kit can be a lifesaver when you're on the road for work. If you've purchased one for business use, you can deduct the cost.
How to write it off: Claim this expense on Schedule C, Box 22.
If you work from home, a portion of your water bill can be deducted as a home office expense. The amount you can deduct depends on the size of your home office compared to your entire home.
How to write it off: Report this expense on Form 8829.
Internet access is essential for most businesses today, and notaries and signing agents are no exception. If you use your home Wi-Fi for business, you can deduct a portion of the cost.
How to write it off: Deduct this expense on Schedule C, Box 25.