What to Write Off on Taxes for Babysitting

A tax write-off is any legitimate expense that is "ordinary and necessary" to operate that business. Expenses made for the purpose of carrying on a business are "tax write-offs," also called "deductions."

A Part-Time Babysitting Business

A teenager or adult who occasionally babysits must report his income, but he will have few tax write-offs, especially if the work takes place at someone else's home. Any items specifically purchased for the job can be deducted, such as snacks, toys or gifts for the child, advertising (classified ads in local newspapers, business cards or the cost to copy fliers), and the cost of any related classes, such as a babysitting or "CPR" class.

Telephones

A home telephone or a cell phone that is used to conduct business, such as to make babysitting appointments and to be used during babysitting hours for communication in the event of an emergency, can be a deduction. However, in all likelihood, phones are mostly utilized for personal use, therefore only a percentage of their cost and monthly fees can be deducted as a business expense.

Auto Expenses

The mileage or a percentage of business use of a vehicle can be a tax write-off. If a car is used for both personal and business purposes, the mileage for each must activity must be recorded. Only the mileage used for business (or the percent of vehicle expenses used for business) can be deducted.

In-Home Babysitting

A room in your home that is used solely for the purpose of babysitting will allow a portion of the home's expenses to be qualify as tax write-offs. If a home has a total of 2,000 square feet and one room that is used exclusively for babysitting measures 200 square feet, then 10 percent of the home's electricity, heat, insurance and property taxes can be claimed as tax write-offs.

Licenses

Any fees for local permits or licenses that must be acquired from your local municipality to allow business use of your home can be used as tax write-offs.

General Business Expenses

Basic expenses for most businesses include office supplies and equipment, advertising, vehicle expenses, and if operated in your home or a business building, a portion of the home's or building's utilities, insurance and taxes can be deducted.