Stop Leaving Money on the Table: Common Tax Write-Offs Small Business Owners Miss

Most small business owners overpay taxes every year. Why? They miss deductions they’re entitled to.

Running a small business means juggling dozens of responsibilities—serving your customers, managing your team, paying the bills, and planning for the future. But there’s one area most owners overlook until it’s too late: finding every tax deduction they’re legally entitled to.

The truth is, many small businesses overpay on taxes each year because they’re unaware of what qualifies as a write-off. These missed deductions can add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars left on the table.

Let’s break down some of the most commonly missed tax deductions—and how you can start taking advantage of them:

1. Home Office Expenses

If you regularly work from home—even part-time—you may qualify for a home office deduction. This includes a portion of your rent or mortgage, utilities, and internet expenses, based on the size of your workspace.

Key tip:

The space must be used regularly and exclusively for business. Even a dedicated desk in a spare bedroom may qualify.

2. Business Vehicle Mileage

If you drive your personal vehicle for business purposes—whether it’s to meet clients, pick up supplies, or travel to job sites—you can deduct the business portion of your mileage.

The IRS allows a standard mileage deduction, or you can deduct actual expenses like gas, maintenance, and insurance.

Key tip:

Keep a mileage log or use an app to track your business driving throughout the year.

3. Software & Subscriptions

Many digital tools that help run your business are deductible. This includes:

• Accounting software like QuickBooks

• Scheduling tools like Calendly

• Cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox

• CRM platforms, industry-specific apps, and more

If it supports your business operations, it likely qualifies.

4. Meals & Entertainment

While the IRS has tightened rules on entertainment deductions, business meals are still partially deductible.

Meals with clients, prospective partners, or during business travel typically qualify for a 50% deduction.

Key tip:

Document the business purpose of the meal and who attended.

5. Professional Services

Here’s one many overlook: your accountant, tax preparer, and legal services are tax-deductible business expenses.

If you’re paying for advice to help your business run smoothly or stay compliant, you can likely write it off.

Are You Missing Out?

These deductions are common, but they’re often missed by busy business owners who are focused on daily operations. And the IRS isn’t going to remind you to claim them.

That’s why proactive tax planning—not just tax filing—is so important.

Bottom Line: Know What You Can Claim

You work hard for your income. Don’t leave money on the table because you missed legitimate deductions. A tax professional can help you uncover these savings and make sure your records are audit-ready.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can help. Schedule a free tax review and we’ll help you identify deductions you might be missing—so you can keep more of what you earn.