Don't Forget These Home Business Deductions

If you have a home office, make sure you or your accountant doesn't forget the following business deductions.

Examine your expense records for the following items that may qualify as business expneses on your tax return:

• Web hosting, Web design, and domain names registration fees 
• the percentage of your rent or mortgage used for your home office
• the business percent of your cell phone, including data plan
• part or all of your home internet service, based on how much you use it for business
• business cards or any other business marketing items like stickers and flyers
• computer equipment and repairs
• software used in the business
• paper, ink cartridges, and office supplies
• ipod and other handheld electronics related to your line of business (used for such media projects as podcasting)
• camera and other media equipment (if related to your business)
• contract labor or subcontractors
• professional fees, such as for legal, accounting, and bookkeeping services
• meals and entertainment with clients if you discuss business before, during, or after the event
• conference registrations
• mileage driven for business, as well as fees for trains, subways, and other transportation
• tolls and parking fees for business trips
• other business travel expenses, including motel and airfare

This is not an exhaustive list but it helps get you thinking about expenditures for your business that may qualify as deductions. When in doubt, ask a CPA.