Top 6 Small Business Tax Deductions to Boost Your Returns

As the upcoming tax season approaches, small business owners are gearing up to make the most of available deductions and credits. Understanding and leveraging these tax benefits can significantly impact your bottom line. Here are the top six small business tax deductions to consider for your upcoming return:

1. Section 179 & Bonus Depreciation
The Section 179 deduction and Bonus Depreciation are powerful tools that allow businesses to deduct the full cost of qualifying equipment and software purchased during the tax year. This can provide immediate tax relief and incentivize investments in business assets.

2. Home Office Deduction
For entrepreneurs who operate out of a home office, the Home Office Deduction can lead to substantial tax savings. The simplified method, based on square footage, streamlines the process. However, for a more accurate deduction, consider calculating the percentage of your home used for business, along with eligible expenses like mortgage interest, utilities, property taxes, and maintenance.

3. Vehicle Expense
Tracking both total mileage and business mileage is crucial for claiming vehicle expenses. If the vehicle is used exclusively for business, it simplifies matters. For those wanting to claim depreciation, meticulous tracking of actual expenses, such as interest, lease payments, insurance, and maintenance, is necessary. Tools like MileIQ can help streamline mileage tracking.

4. Small Business Health Insurance
Small business owners paying for their health insurance or offering health insurance to employees may qualify for the Small Business Health Insurance Deduction and in some instances a Small Business Health Care Tax Credit. This deduction and/or the credit can help alleviate the financial burden of paying for health coverage, making it a valuable incentive for businesses to prioritize employee well-being.

5. Qualified Business Income Deduction
The Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction is designed to benefit business owners, providing a deduction of up to 20% of qualified business income. However, it's essential to note that the deduction can be phased out based on income levels and varies depending on factors like business industry, type, wages paid, and filing status. This deduction has a few methods of calculation which can create some complexities for estimating the total deduction. 

6. Employee Retirement Contributions
Contributions to employee retirement plans not only help secure the financial future of your team but can also result in tax benefits for your business. Additionally, for those implementing a new retirement plan, a tax credit is available to offset start-up costs. For Colorado employers, the Colorado SecureSavings program increases an employer's need for considering retirement plan options.
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By strategically leveraging these small business tax deductions, you can optimize your financial position and navigate tax season with confidence. If you need additional support or have questions on your small business deductions, please reach out to your Cornbelt Financial team member today!