Sun, sand, a surf — what could be better than hanging out at the beach or pool all day? How about saving money at tax time for the expenses you incur while spending all day by the water?
If you work as an independent contractor, you can write off any everyday business purchases you make to help you keep a watchful eye on swimmers. That also goes for any expenses you rack up showing other lifeguards the ropes.
There’s no need to blow a whistle — these write-offs are completely safe!
Schedule C, Box 27a
Swimsuits, T-shirts, and other uniform items required for the job are tax-deductible.
Schedule C, Box 27a
You can write off items you use for sun protection on the job, like specialized hats and sunscreen.
Schedule C, Box 22
Medical supplies, like stethoscopes, PPE, and more, can be written off.
Schedule C, Box 22
Write off the items and equipment you need to save someone, like rescue boards and tubes.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Training programs to receive your CPR certification are considered write-offs.
If you use your car for business purposes, like to pick up supplies or attend lifeguard training courses, can claim car-related expenses on 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.
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.
Self-employed lifeguards can partially deduct the cost of going for food or drinks with fitness trainers, pool managers, fellow lifeguards, or other people if the goal is to generate business.
Schedule C, Box 24b
If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off!
As long as they are "ordinary" and "necessary," like train tickets and hotel fees, you can deduct travel expenses when you go on out-of-town business trips. For example, to attend an industry conference or seminar.
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 regularly conduct business at a designated work area in your home, you can claim home office deductions. Some of the work you do from home might include:
- Teaching (or attending) online lifeguarding courses
- Conducting industry research
- Managing client paperwork
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!
