How Deductions Affect Your Professional Taxes

For many business owners, filing taxes can seem like a time-consuming chore – especially when you could be using that time to drive product innovation or scout out new locations. However, taking the time to properly understand your business taxes is essential to a healthy bottom line, especially when it comes to deductions. At SD Associates, P.C., we understand the intricacies of tax deductions and how they can significantly impact your business’s financial health. Our team of expert accountants and CPAs is here to highlight how deductions can affect your professional taxes, as well as how we can help you find the best deductions for your business. 

Understanding Tax Deductions

In the simplest terms, a tax deduction reduces the amount of income that’s considered taxable. This means instead of paying tax on your total income, you can subtract certain expenses, which puts you into a lower tax bracket, and as a result, you pay fewer taxes, saving you money.

For instance, if your business earned $100,000 this year, but you have $20,000 in deductions, you’d only be taxed on $80,000. The savings can be substantial, especially for larger businesses or corporations dealing with significant sums of money. 

Common Deductions for Business Owners

There are several deductions your business may be able to take advantage of on your next tax return. Some deductions commonly used by business owners include:

• Home Office Expenses: If a portion of your home is used exclusively for business, you might be eligible for a home office deduction. This can include a percentage of your mortgage or rent, utilities, and home maintenance.

• Travel and Entertainment: Business-related travel, meals, and entertainment expenses can often be deducted, but there are stipulations. It’s crucial to keep detailed records and ensure the expenses are genuinely business-related.

• Salaries & Wages: Payments to employees, including bonuses, are typically deductible. However, payments to sole proprietors, partners, and LLC members are not.

• Business Supplies & Expenses: Supplies used within a year may be deductible. Larger equipment can also be deducted, either in one go or over a period of time, depending on the method chosen – expensing or capitalizing.

• Professional Services: Fees for professionals like lawyers and consultants can sometimes be deducted.

• Education: If you or your employees undergo training or courses directly related to your business, these can often be deducted.

The Importance of Proper Documentation

While the potential savings from deductions are considerable, it’s essential to maintain proper records. Every deduction requires evidence in the form of receipts, logs, or other documentation. In the case of an audit, these will bolster your chances of a positive outcome. 

Tailoring Deductions to Your Business

Each business is unique, and so are its eligible deductions. Industries have specific allowances and limitations. For accounting firms, for instance, ongoing educational expenses or software subscriptions might be deductible. It’s essential to work closely with a specialized accounting firm like SD Associates, P.C. to ensure you’re not missing out on valuable deductions, or worse, claiming something incorrectly.

Contact Our Accounting Firm Today

At SD Associates, P.C., we’re dedicated to ensuring our clients are well-equipped with the knowledge and resources they need for optimal tax planning. If you have questions about your business deductions or any other accounting needs, don’t hesitate to reach out today at (215) 517-5600 and schedule your consultation.