Hey y’all—Elise here! Whether you’re running your business from the kitchen table, a corner of your living room, or that one quiet spot with good coffee and decent Wi-Fi, I see you. You’re building something real—and that takes guts, grit, and a whole lot of cream in your coffee. But here’s the deal: too many home-based entrepreneurs are leaving money on the table when it comes to taxes. So let’s fix that. I’m breaking down five super-common tax deductions that are totally legit and totally overlooked. Grab your favorite blue mug and let’s dive in!
If you’re running your business in leggings with a latte in hand, you deserve to keep more of what you earn. Don’t let the IRS sip your profits—these 5 tax write-offs are too good to miss.
Let’s talk about the top 5 tax deductions home-based business owners tend to overlook. These are real, IRS-approved write-offs that can help you keep more of what you earn. And trust me—when tax time rolls around, you’ll be glad you took the time to learn this now.
1. Claiming the Home Office Deduction (Even Small Spaces Count)
Got a desk in the corner of your bedroom that you use only for your business? Or maybe a whole spare room that’s become your office? Either way, you could qualify for the home office deduction.
The IRS lets you write off a portion of your rent or mortgage, utilities, and even repairs—as long as the space is used exclusively and regularly for your business. You can use the simplified method (based on square footage) or actual expenses. Just make sure to document it properly.
If you want the official word, the IRS has a full breakdown of the home office deduction rules here.
2. Internet and Phone Write-Offs for Home-Based Entrepreneurs
If you’re taking Zoom calls, checking email, uploading content, or running your biz online in any way—you’re using your phone and internet to do it.
While you can’t deduct your entire personal bill, you can deduct a portion that’s used strictly for business. I recommend keeping a log or using your phone plan’s data breakdown to estimate your business use percentage. This is one of the most common missed tax deductions—don’t let it slip by!
3. Don’t Skip the Business Mileage Deduction
If you leave the house for anything business-related—coffee chats, shipping product, going to an event, or even picking up supplies—those miles count.
Track your mileage and either use the IRS standard rate or actual vehicle expenses. A simple app like MileIQ or QuickBooks Self-Employed can make it automatic. Just be sure to log the date, purpose, and miles. This deduction adds up fast, especially if you’re out and about growing your business.
4. Software and App Expenses Add Up—Write Them Off!
Those $10/month subscriptions? They’re not just expenses—they’re business tools.
If you use things like QuickBooks, Canva, Zoom, Dropbox, or your email marketing platform for your business, they’re deductible. Many people skip these because they feel “too small,” but I promise—those little charges add up over 12 months. Every bit counts!
5. Business Meal Deductions You Might Be Missing
Yep—some meals are still deductible. If you’re meeting with a client, a mentor, or even your business partner to talk strategy over lunch, it could qualify.
The key is intent and documentation. You need to note who you met with, where you were, and what business purpose was discussed. Keep the receipt and jot a quick note on the back or in a spreadsheet. (I do this in my notes app all the time!)
Final Thoughts
Running a business from home comes with perks—and tax breaks. But if you’re not aware of what you can write off, you’re probably paying more than you should.
Want a little help making sure you’re not missing out? I created a simple, sanity-saving guide called Write Off That Latte. It’s packed with real-life tips, explained in plain English (not IRS-speak). You can grab your copy over at AskElise.com or just DM me the word LATTE on Instagram and I’ll send it straight to your inbox.
Let’s keep your money where it belongs—in your business and in your pocket.
Final Thoughts
Running a business from home comes with perks—and tax breaks. But if you’re not aware of what you can write off, you’re probably paying more than you should.
Want a little help making sure you’re not missing out? I created a simple, sanity-saving guide called Write Off That Latte.It’s packed with real-life tips, explained in plain English (not IRS-speak). You can grab your copy over at AskElise.com or just DM me the word LATTE on Instagram and I’ll send it straight to your inbox.
Let’s keep your money where it belongs—in your business and in your pocket.
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