Being a referee isn't just about making the tough calls on the field, it's also about making smart decisions with your finances. As a self-employed or freelance professional, you have the opportunity to claim a variety of tax write-offs and deductions. Here's a handy guide to help you whistle your way to a lower tax bill.
Whether you're discussing game strategies over lunch or building relationships with other referees at dinner, these meals can be considered business expenses. Just remember to keep your receipts and make a note of who you dined with and the business purpose of the meal.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 24b.
Traveling to and from games is a necessary part of your job as a referee. That means the costs of car insurance and registration are legitimate business expenses. Just be sure to keep a log of your business-related travel.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 15.
Keeping your vehicle in top shape is crucial when you're on the road for games. Expenses for oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance can be written off. Just keep track of your receipts.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 9.
If you've purchased a car primarily for your refereeing business, you can write off a portion of the cost. You can also claim depreciation, which is a fancy way of saying that cars lose value over time.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 13.
Staying on top of your game means keeping your skills sharp. Any courses or certifications you take to improve your refereeing abilities can be written off. Just be sure they're directly related to your current job.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you're reviewing game footage or doing administrative work from home, you'll need a comfortable and efficient workspace. That office chair, desk, or filing cabinet can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 18.
Keeping track of games, scores, and other details often requires log books and other office supplies. These are all necessary for your business and can be written off.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 18.
When you're on the road for games, you've got to eat. Meals while traveling for work can be written off, so don't forget to save those receipts!
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 24a.
Parking fees can add up, especially when you're traveling to different venues for games. Keep those parking receipts and write them off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you're using part of your home as an office, a portion of your power bill can be written off. It's a bright idea to save money where you can!
Write it off on Form 8829.
Membership in professional organizations can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities. These fees can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you're using part of your home for your business, you can write off a portion of your property insurance. It's a smart way to protect your bottom line.
Write it off on Form 8829.
If you've had to make repairs to the part of your home used for business, those costs can be written off. Just make sure the repairs are directly related to your business use of the home.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 21.
Your uniform is a crucial part of your job. The cost of buying and maintaining it, including cleaning and repairs, can be written off.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
If you're attending sporting events to stay up-to-date with the latest rules and strategies, those ticket costs can be written off. Just be sure it's directly related to your job as a referee.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Traveling to games often means dealing with toll roads. But don't worry, those toll fees can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 27a.
Whether you're driving your own car or taking public transportation, getting to and from games is a business expense. Keep track of these costs and write them off.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 24a.
When games take you out of town, you'll need a place to stay. The cost of hotels or other lodging can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 24a.
A vehicle tool kit can be a lifesaver when you're on the road for games. If you've purchased one for your business, you can write off the cost.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 22.
Just like your power bill, if you're using part of your home for business, a portion of your water bill can be written off. It's another way to save on your business expenses.
Write it off on Form 8829.
As a referee, your whistle and flags are essential tools of the trade. The cost of these items can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 22.
Whether you're reviewing game footage online or emailing with other referees, a reliable internet connection is a must. A portion of your Wi-Fi bill can be written off as a business expense.
Write it off on Schedule C, Box 25.