Modeling seems easy to some people, but that’s only because you make it look that way. The truth is that it requires a lot of time, discipline, and of course: expenses. From makeup and clothes, to travel costs to get to the photo shoot locations, it’s not cheap to look this good. But did you know those same expenses can actually save you money come tax time?
As an independent model, you’re entitled to write off all your business expenses on your taxes. And we’ve put together the perfect backdrop to get you started, by listing all the best write-offs for models in one place so you can strut your stuff all the way to the bank!
Schedule C, Box 27a
You can write off makeup, nail, haircare services if they're required for a gig.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Enhancing and learning new skills through acting or modeling classes is deductible.
Schedule C, Box 10
Commission fees you pay for agency representation are fully deductible.
Schedule C, Box 22
Any equipment you use to shoot promotional tapes, portraits, and more can be written off.
Schedule C, Box 8
Getting professional headshots done to book acting and model gigs can be written off.
Schedule C, Box 27a
Part of your actual phone's cost, monthly phone bill, and any accessories you use for work can be written off.
Schedule C, Box 18
Subscriptions and licenses for Photoshop, Lightroom, and other software can be deducted.
It's not surprising it's called a "go-see" — models spend a lot of time going to and from casting calls and photo shoots. If you drive to either of those, or classes, client meetings, or agent appointments, go ahead and write off your car expenses.
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.
Grabbing lunch to chat about modeling or the fashion industry with fellow models, clients, or agents counts as a business expense you can write off. That includes both food and drinks!
Schedule C, Box 24b
If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off!
If you have to travel for work to attend an on-location shoot or meeting with an out-of-town client, feel free to deduct your travel expenses.
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 from home on personal branding, marketing and advertising, or practicing your modeling skills, you can deduct home office expenses from 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!
