5 More Tax Deductions Small Business Owners Often Miss
Think you’ve claimed every tax deduction available to your business? Think again. Most small business owners miss out on thousands in potential tax savings simply because they’re unaware of all the deductions they qualify for.
Here are 5 less obvious but totally legitimate business deductions that entrepreneurs often overlook:
1. Continuing Education & Courses
If you purchase online courses, certifications, or attend workshops to improve your business skills—these are deductible. Whether it’s QuickBooks training, marketing seminars, or leadership development, it’s all valid if it directly supports your business.
2. Cell Phone & Internet Bills
Do you use your phone and internet for business? You can deduct a percentage of your monthly bill that reflects your business usage. Keeping a record of business calls and data use helps support this deduction.
3. Business Meals (50%)
Taking a client or partner out for lunch to talk shop? Meals are 50% deductible when there’s a legitimate business purpose. Just remember to document who you met with and what was discussed.
4. Startup Costs
In your first year of business, you can deduct up to $5,000 of startup expenses, including legal fees, business licenses, market research, and initial advertising costs.
5. Bank Fees & Payment Processing Costs
Monthly bank fees, overdraft charges (related to business), and payment platform fees (like Stripe, PayPal, Square) are deductible operating expenses that often go unnoticed.
At DBR Bookkeeping, we specialize in helping small business owners identify missed deductions and stay tax-ready all year long.
Don’t overpay another season. Book a free call with Dr. Bryan Raya, QuickBooks ProAdvisor, and make sure you’re getting the deductions you deserve:
https://calendly.com/dbr_bookkeeping/30-minute-zoom-consultation-call
Let’s start Doing Business Right!
FAQ: Lesser-Known Business Tax Deductions
Can I deduct online courses for my business?
Yes. Educational content that helps improve or grow your business is deductible.
Are cell phone and internet bills deductible?
Partially. Deduct the percentage used for business-related activity.
What meals are tax deductible?
Business meals with clients, partners, or vendors are typically 50% deductible.
What are considered startup costs?
Legal fees, branding, licenses, and consulting fees related to launching your business.
Do payment processing fees count as expenses?
Yes. All Stripe, PayPal, and similar fees are fully deductible.
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