5 Commonly Missed Tax Deductions for Home Service Businesses
5 Commonly Missed Tax Deductions for Home Service Businesses
🛠️ Whether you're a plumber, electrician, or landscaper—these tax tips can save you money.
As a home service business owner, you juggle client jobs, scheduling, and managing your finances. But when tax season hits, missing the right deductions can leave thousands on the table.
Here are 5 often-overlooked deductions tailored to home service pros—and how to make sure you claim them confidently.
1. Home Office Deduction
If you manage your business from a home office—even part-time—you could deduct a percentage of:
Utilities
Internet
Repairs specific to your workspace
Mortgage interest or rent (based on square footage)
💡 Tip: The space must be used exclusively and regularly for business purposes.
2. Tools, Equipment & Supplies
From drills and ladders to cleaning products and uniforms—if you need it to get the job done, it’s likely deductible.
💡 Tip: Keep every receipt. Store digital copies in a cloud folder or track expenses using QuickBooks.
3. Vehicle & Mileage Expenses
Use your truck or van for job site visits or hauling equipment? Deduct either:
The standard mileage rate
OR actual expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
💡 Tip: Use a mileage tracking app and keep a log of all business-related trips.
4. Advertising & Marketing
Whether you're running Facebook ads, printing business cards, or wrapping your vehicle with your logo—it’s all deductible.
💡 Tip: Website design, SEO services, and even yard signs qualify too.
5. Software & Professional Services
Apps and software (like QuickBooks, scheduling tools, or CRMs) are deductible. So are fees paid to your accountant, bookkeeper, or legal advisor.
💡 Tip: Subscriptions count! Track them monthly and categorize properly in QBO.
🧰 FAQ for Home Service Pros
Q: How should I track mileage for my plumbing business?
👉 Use a mileage app like MileIQ or QuickBooks’ built-in tracking.
Q: Can I deduct my vehicle if I use it personally too?
👉 Yes—but only the percentage used for business.
Q: What expenses can I deduct for my cleaning business?
👉 Supplies, equipment, gloves, uniforms, and even business insurance.
Q: Do I need receipts for everything?
👉 Yes. Accurate records = easier audits and bigger deductions.
🔧 Don’t let tax season catch you off guard.
Join the DBR Bookkeeping Skool Community and get the tools, templates, and support you need to manage your books and maximize your write-offs.
👉 https://www.skool.com/dbr-bookkeeping-8561/about
Let’s start Doing Business Right.
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