As a self-employed individual, you file Schedule C to report business income and expenses. The IRS allows deductions for all ordinary and necessary business expenses. Here are the most valuable ones.

1. Self-Employment Tax Deduction

You can deduct 50% of your self-employment tax from your gross income. This is an above-the-line deduction β€” you get it even without itemizing.

2. Self-Employed Health Insurance

You can deduct 100% of health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, and dependents β€” as long as you are not eligible for employer coverage through a spouse.

3. Home Office Deduction

If you use a dedicated space exclusively for business, deduct either $5/sq ft (simplified, max 300 sq ft) or actual expenses proportional to office size.

4. Vehicle Expenses

Deduct business miles at the 2024 standard rate of 67 cents per mile, or use the actual expense method (gas, insurance, depreciation).

5. Retirement Contributions

Contribute to a SEP-IRA (up to 25% of net self-employment income, max $69,000 in 2024) or Solo 401(k). These reduce taxable income dollar for dollar.

6. Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction

Many self-employed filers can deduct up to 20% of qualified business income under Section 199A. Income limits apply for certain service businesses.

7. Education and Professional Development

Courses, certifications, books, and subscriptions that maintain or improve your business skills are deductible.

Sources: IRS Publication 334; Schedule C Instructions; IRS.gov/self-employed