Taxes are one of those inevitable parts of life that rarely spark joy. But there are little ways to make your tax return a little more interesting, and maybe even a bit fun. There are hidden deductions that sound completely outlandish yet are entirely legal. From bizarre business expenses to eyebrow-raising personal deductions, they can get interesting.
What counts as a deduction depends on context, and just because something worked for one person doesn’t mean it’ll apply universally (taxes are complicated). That’s why consulting a tax professional is key. But the stories behind these deductions are worth exploring if only to marvel at what’s possible when you dig into the fine print.
If you’re looking for inspiration or just a good laugh, this list might make tax season feel a little less dreary.
1. Guard Dogs for Business Security
Did you know you can write off the cost of a guard dog if it protects your business? Breeds like German Shepherds and Rottweilers often qualify, but the deduction only applies to their working hours.
Expenses such as food, training, and veterinary care can be included, provided you can prove the dog’s primary purpose is security. It’s a quirky but effective way to keep your business and tax bill in check.
2. Moving Your Pet
If you’ve relocated for work, your furry friends can tag along on the tax deduction train. The IRS allows you to include pet moving expenses as part of your relocation costs.
This quirky deduction recognizes that pets are part of the family, and moving them isn’t cheap. Just ensure the move meets the IRS’s distance and work-related criteria.
3. Swimming Pools for Medical Reasons
Building a pool might sound indulgent, but if it’s prescribed for medical reasons, it can be tax-deductible. This applies to individuals who need aquatic therapy for conditions like arthritis or chronic pain.
The costs of installation and maintenance can qualify, but you’ll need a doctor’s note and solid documentation to back up your claim. This deduction proves that health and luxury sometimes overlap.
4. Cat Food for Pest Control
A junkyard owner successfully deducted cat food expenses, arguing that feeding stray cats helped control rats and other pests on the property. The IRS agreed, as it was deemed necessary for business operations.
If you’re running a business and those feline employees are keeping pests at bay, their meals might just qualify as a legitimate expense. It’s a win-win for you and your furry workforce.
5. Weight Loss Programs
If a doctor recommends weight loss to treat a specific medical condition, the costs of the program can be deductible. This includes gym memberships and diet plans designed to improve your health.
The key is proving the medical necessity of the expense, so be prepared to provide documentation. This deduction offers a financial incentive to prioritize health.
6. Clarinet Lessons for Overbites
Yes, you read that right. A parent once deducted the cost of clarinet lessons because they were recommended by an orthodontist to help fix their child’s overbite.
The IRS accepted this unconventional deduction, demonstrating how even musical instruments can fall under medical expenses in certain circumstances.
7. Home Office Spaces
A home office deduction is pretty common, but did you know it doesn’t need to be an entire room? Even a small, dedicated space used exclusively for business purposes can qualify.
The deduction covers a portion of your rent, utilities, and even home maintenance. Just make sure the area isn’t doubling as your Netflix binge-watching corner.
8. Exotic Dancers’ Costumes
In a landmark case, a professional exotic dancer successfully deducted the cost of her elaborate costumes, arguing they were necessary for her work. The IRS agreed, as the costumes weren’t suitable for everyday wear.
This deduction highlights the importance of business-specific expenses, even if they’re unconventional. If it’s essential for your job, it might just pass the tax test.
9. Breast Augmentation for Business
A dancer who argued her breast implants boosted her income successfully deducted the surgery as a business expense. The IRS ruled in her favor, considering it a “necessary and ordinary” cost of doing business.
While this case is an outlier, it underscores the wide range of deductions available for specific industries. The key is tying the expense directly to income generation.
10. Trips to Conferences in Scenic Locations
Attending a business-related conference in a vacation hotspot can be tax-deductible. As long as the trip’s primary purpose is work-related, you can write off travel, lodging, and registration fees.
Be cautious, though. Mixing business with too much pleasure can raise red flags, so document your activities carefully.
11. Driving Your Car for Charity
Mileage driven for charitable purposes can be deducted at a rate set by the IRS. Whether you’re delivering meals or driving to a fundraiser, those miles add up.
Keep a log of your trips and purpose to claim this deduction. It’s a simple way to turn your goodwill into a tax-saving opportunity.
12. DIY Tax Preparation Software
While hiring an accountant is common, even DIY tax preparation tools like TurboTax can be deductible. The IRS allows deductions for tools used to calculate and file your taxes.
It’s a small perk for tackling taxes on your own. Make sure to include the cost when filing next year.
