Tax Deductions for Part-Time Writers

If part of your income comes from writing, you should consider deducting some of your expenses the next time you file taxes. Income over $400 must be reported to the IRS. Here are a few common deductions part-time writers may want to consider.

Mileage

If you drive to meet with clients, or drive to pick up supplies for your writing business, make sure to keep track of your mileage. The exact amount you can deduct for mileage depends on gas prices. The standard mileage deduction rates for business are 50 cents per mile for tax year 2010, and 51 cents per mile for tax year 2011.

Computers

If you purchased a new computer or software for your business, you can deduct that as a business expense. For certain types of equipment, you may need to depreciate the expense over the lifetime of the equipment.

Supplies

Business supplies such as printer ink, paper and other office items can be written off. Expenses to continue your education to further your writing business are also deductible.

Travel

If you travel to meet a client or attend a conference or workshop, you can deduct your travel expenses (i.e., air fare, cab fare to and from the conference), hotel and some of your miscellaneous expenses, such as dry cleaning your attire and your food.

Publications

You can also deduct the cost of subscriptions to any trade journals or publications that help you find freelance work. Under certain circumstances, your dues to belong to any professional writer organizations is also deductible.

References

• IRS.gov: Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center; Updated April 2011
• IRS.gov: Publication 529 (2010), Miscellaneous Deductions