There’s nothing more frustrating than spending hours trying to troubleshoot a computer, only to discover it was a PEBKAC error all along. But what’s almost as frustrating is learning you’ve been overpaying your taxes when you didn’t have to.
That’s we’ve compiled a list of the best write-offs for freelance computer technicians, so you’ll never forget to claim an expense again. By taking all the write-offs you’re entitled to, you’ll reboot your tax returns and restore your savings back to optimal efficiency!
Schedule C, Box 22
Safety equipment, like goggles and masks, can be deducted.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Any subscriptions to trade journals related to your industry are considered tax write-offs.
Schedule C, Box 8
Squarespace, Wix, GoDaddy, and other website service fees are fully tax-deductible.
Schedule C, Box 8
Print and online advertising costs for your business are considered write-offs.
Schedule C, Box 18
Software you use for invoicing, tracking expenses, creating timesheets, and so on is deductible.
Schedule C, Box 22
Parts needed to repair computers for clients are considered write-offs.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Write off manuals for different computer models that help you make repairs.
Schedule C, Box 18
Computers, extra monitors, webcams, and microphones needed to teach are write-offs.
A portion of car expenses can be written off if you have to drive for work. For a computer repair expert, this might include:
- Picking up office supplies
- Picking up repair equipment and computer parts
- Dropping off fixed products
- Meeting with clients
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.
Schedule C, Box 15
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.
Much of a computer technician's work happens away from the computer — such as grabbing food or drinks with mentors, clients, or fellow repairpeople.
If the purpose of these meetings is work-related, you can write off the cost!
Schedule C, Box 24b
If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off!
Work-related travel expenses are also eligible write-offs, such as a train ticket to an out-of-town industry conference.
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!
If you work on repairs for clients, conduct industry research, or spruce up your web presence from your apartment, remember that you can write off a portion of your home office expenses, like internet and rent.
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!
