Time out! We know that as a coach, you’ve got a lot of athletes to think about — but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. One big way you can do that is by saving extra money on your taxes.
That’s right: if you work as an independent contractor, you can lower your tax bill simply by doing the job you love. By claiming these write-offs the next time you file, you’ll be saving time and money that you can then invest in your charges. (Or take a nice vacation during off-season — we won’t tell!) Now that’s a smart play!
Schedule C, Box 22
You can write off balls, nets, shoes, and more, as long as you use them for work.
Schedule C, Box 22
Playbooks, whistles, and anything else you use while coaching can be deducted.
Schedule C, Box 27a
This includes uniforms or any branded items you must wear while working.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Sports magazines, newsletters, and channels you subscribe to can be deducted.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Attending a sporting event is a write-off for you: you can study the plays and learn!
Schedule C, Box 27a
Continuing education class required to keep your job are fully deductible.
Your coaching work may land you on the road frequently: meeting with athletes and other coaches, picking up sports equipment, or driving to games and practices.
A portion of the money you spend on your car, such as paying for gas or repairs, can be written off your taxes.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Parking for a meeting downtown, or any other work trip, is tax-deductible!
Schedule C, Box 27a
A toll while driving to or from a work destination is tax-deductible!
Schedule C, Box 13
If you buy a new car, you can write off part of the cost every year for five years.
Schedule C, Box 22
Flashlights, tire iron, duct tape, and other tools you may need in your vehicle are deductible.
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Car insurance monthly fees, registration, even roadside assistance are partially deductible.
Schedule C, Box 9
Oil changes, repairs, and regular checkups are all tax-deductible if you drive for work.
Meeting talent scouts, athletes, or fellow coaches for a work chat over food or drinks? Go ahead and write off the cost of your business meal.
Schedule C, Box 24b
If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off!
Games and matches will often bring coaches to the towns of opposing teams. Any related travel expenses, such as breakfast the morning before a big game or the cost of a hotel, can be written off.This also includes travel to things like industry conferences or workshops.
Schedule C, Box 24a
Planes, trains, and car rentals are all work-related travel costs that can be written off.
Schedule C, Box 24a
When you travel for work, lodging expenses such as hotel rooms or Airbnb are write offs.
Schedule C, Box 24a
When you're traveling for work, all meals are tax-deductible. Even takeout!
Many people get into coaching because they love being on the field or court. But a lot goes into a successful coaching business off the field, too. Many coaches work on things like industry research, finance and paperwork management, or continuing education courses from home. In this case, a portion of home office expenses can be claimed on your taxes.
Schedule C, Box 18
A desk, chairs, lamps, and other home office necessities are all tax write-offs.
Schedule C, Box 21
You can write off up to $2,500 for individual repairs to your property.
Form 8829
Gotta keep the lights on in your home office! A portion of your electricity bill counts.
Form 8829
Whether it's rental or homeowners insurance, you can write off a portion through your home office deduction.
Form 8829
It'd be hard to work in an office without running water, huh? You water bill counts.
Schedule C, Box 25
Your Comcast bill is a tax write-off. You need internet to do your job!
