Quick Tax Deduction Finder 2026
Answer a few questions about your business activities and instantly discover tax deductions you might be missing as a self-employed worker. No sign-up required.
About Your Business
Answer each question to discover potential deductions. Change any answer to see results update instantly.
Your Potential Deductions
| Deduction | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| No deductions selected. Check the boxes above. | |
Deductions You May Be Missing
You may be missing these deductions:
If you use a home office, you may be able to deduct up to $1,500 (simplified) or more (regular method).
If you use your personal car for business, you can claim 67¢ per business mile in 2026.
Tangible personal property used in business qualifies for immediate expensing up to $1,160,000.
Overnight business travel is fully deductible (meals at 50%).
50% of business meal expenses are deductible.
Courses, certifications, and training directly related to your trade are fully deductible.
100% of self-employed health insurance premiums are deductible as an above-the-line expense.
Solo 401(k) and SEP IRA contributions reduce taxable income dollar for dollar.
Up to $5,000 in startup costs can be expensed immediately.
Advertising, legal, accounting, and consulting fees are fully deductible.
Next Steps
* Estimates only. Figures are for educational purposes and do not constitute professional tax advice. Consult a tax professional for personalized guidance.
Most Commonly Missed Self-Employed Deductions
1. Home Office Deduction
Use the simplified method ($5/sq ft) or regular method to claim your home office. This is one of the most overlooked deductions for remote workers.
2. Vehicle Expenses
Standard mileage rate (67¢/mile for 2026) or actual expenses. Keep a mileage log! This can add up to thousands per year.
3. Equipment & Section 179
Expense up to $1,160,000 in 2026 for tangible personal property used in your business. Computers, phones, tools, and machinery all qualify.
4. Health Insurance
100% of health, dental, and long-term care insurance premiums for you, your spouse, and dependents are deductible as an above-the-line expense.
5. Retirement Contributions
Solo 401(k), SEP IRA, and SIMPLE IRA contributions reduce your taxable income. Contribution limits are generous for self-employed workers.
6. Travel & Meals
Business travel (lodging, transport) is 100% deductible. Business meals are 50% deductible. Keep receipts and a travel log.
7. Professional Development
Courses, certifications, books, conferences, and subscriptions directly related to your trade are fully deductible.
8. Startup Costs
Up to $5,000 in startup costs can be expensed immediately (if total startup costs are under $50,000). The rest amortized over 15 years.
Tax Deduction FAQs
Commonly missed deductions include: home office expenses, vehicle mileage, equipment purchases (Section 179), travel expenses, business meals, professional education, health insurance premiums, retirement contributions, and startup costs. This interactive tool helps you identify which apply to your situation.
You can use either the simplified method ($5 per square foot, max 300 sq ft = $1,500) or the regular method (actual expenses allocated by business-use percentage). The space must be used exclusively and regularly for business.
The 2026 standard mileage rate for business use of a personal vehicle is 67 cents per mile. You can choose between the standard rate or actual expenses (gas, oil, repairs, depreciation, insurance). The standard rate is simpler and often more beneficial.
Yes. Self-employed individuals can deduct 100% of health insurance premiums for themselves, their spouse, and their dependents as an above-the-line deduction (not subject to the 7.5% AGI floor). This includes dental and long-term care insurance.
For 2026, self-employed individuals can contribute up to $69,000 to a Solo 401(k) or defined contribution plan. Additionally, you can contribute up to $7,000 to a Roth IRA. These contributions reduce your taxable income dollar for dollar.