Know exactly what to write off, what to track, and how to maximize your tax savings — all in one printable reference.
"I was leaving thousands on the table every year. This cheat sheet showed me deductions I never knew existed — home office, mileage, tools, even my internet bill."
Regular vs. exclusive use, simplified method ($5/sq ft), direct vs. indirect expenses, depreciation rules.
Standard mileage rate vs. actual expenses, commuting vs. business travel, vehicle logs.
Software, SaaS, hardware, domain names, hosting, cell phone — what counts and what doesn't.
Courses, conferences, books, certifications — requirements to maintain or improve skills.
50% deduction rules, business meals, client meetings, the "directly related" test.
SEP IRA, Solo 401(k), SIMPLE IRA limits for 2026, health insurance premiums, HSA contributions.
Business travel deductions, per diem rates, mixed-purpose trips, the "primarily business" test.
What receipts to keep, how long, digital vs. paper, mileage logs, and audit-proof documentation.
═══ HOME OFFICE DEDUCTION ─ Simplified Method ═══ • $5 per square foot, up to 300 sq ft ($1,500 max) • No depreciation recapture when you sell • Can't claim if you take the regular method ═══ VEHICLE ─ Standard Mileage Rate (2026) ═══ • Business: $0.67/mile (2026 rate) • Medical/Moving: $0.21/mile • Charitable: $0.14/mile • Parking fees & tolls: 100% deductible separately ═══ 199A QBI DEDUCTION ═══ • Up to 20% of qualified business income • Phaseout: $191,950 (single) / $383,900 (married) • Specified service trades face tighter limits ═══ AUDIT PROOFING ═══ • Keep receipts for 3 years (7 years if unreported income) • Digital photos count (IRS accepts .pdf, .jpg) • Separate business bank account is essential