Top 2023 Write-Offs
Tis the season… the Tax Write Off Season!
You have until December 31, 2023 to purchase legitimate business needs that can lower your taxable income on your 2023 tax return. And frankly, what’s more powerful than understanding the art of deductions to give your hard-earned cash a boost? Think of your write-offs it as a financial super-move, turning everyday expenses into strategic financial wins.
From transforming your home office into a tax-saving haven to making your business travels work double duty, I’m sharing some of my favorite 2023 tax write-offs.
And guess what? There's a world of deductions beyond the usual suspects—educational pursuits (like online courses!) and even in-kind contributions are secret weapons in the tax-saving game that also align with your growth goals and values.
In the spirit of spending money (tis the season, after all), here are my absolute favorite business tax write-offs for 2023.
For your office/home office:
PORTABLE MONITOR: This monitor is a game changer at the studio. Not only are team meetings easier than ever, but I can cast my screen for presentations and share mood boards and inspo while we shoot content.
Or like, just watch Netflix as I crush through my to-do list.
3 -in 1 Vacuum/Mop: It vacuums. Its mops. And then it cleans itself. I’ll take two... I’m the cleaning crew, so keeping my workspace in tip-top shape is also my job. This baby makes it easier (and faster) than ever. And let’s not forget: time is money. The less I spend cleaning, the more I spend creating.
Walking Pad: I try and walk outside every day, but as the weather changes and sun sets earlier, keeping my body moving and energy up throughout the work day is on top of my to-do list. I have a standing desk and use my walking pad as often as I can in lieu of stillness or my stool. It’s especially great after those power lunches to avoid the afternoon post-food slump.
Convertible Desk: Speaking of standing desk, I use this one to ensure the heigh is perfect whether I’m walking, standing, or sitting. It’s easy to shift position and helped make my home work space extra flexbile.
MacBook Pro: Ye Old Faithful MacBook crapped out on me midyear, so I was quick to replace her with a faster, slimmer, bigger model. I’m a rare graphic designer who uses a MacBook and my track pad for all my design work. Being able to work from anywhere outweighs the benefits of a fancier set up every single time. The point of me sharing this? Do what works for YOU! This baby is fast, slim, and holds battery life forever while I work from everywhere.
Computer Bag: I needed a new bag to haul my laptop all over. From on-set days for photo + video shoots to client meetings where we reviewed digital design reviews, something that was flexible and hearty was key. This lovely pick converts from a shoulder bag to a backpack, making it easier than ever to bring my laptop around while keeping my hands free, all while maintaining a sense of chic style I wasn’t willing to skip. And of course, IG did not disappoint; the second I even THOUGHT about a new MacBook, the ads for an accompanying bag started flowing in. And I was well targeted 😍
AirPods and AirPods Pro: My ears are little, and although I loved the AirPod Pros I bought for Zoom calls and client meetings, they ended up hurting my teeny tiny ears too much. Lucky for me, Apple still makes their older model, which fits perfectly. And the new lower prices on these means you can grab a new pair to replace your accidentally-washed version AND call it a write-off 🥳
Electric Kettle and Coffee Maker: does this even need an explanation? Keeping the team, clients, and myself caffeinated is paramount to business success. The coffee maker has a reusable filter, so no need for any extra waste. BONUS! This cute electric kettle comes in a few different colors- grab one in your brand color and use as a prop for content!
Portable Speaker Music and productivity go hand in hand, and this teeny tiny portable speaker doesn’t skip out on sound maximization. I got this for the studio and use it on brand shoots, too. This is extra cool because it fits in a standard size cup holder (I see you multitasking mama, pushing that stroller as you take client calls…) and when you need speakers for a larger space, you can connect two to the same source. Genius.
Do everything cart: This catch all cart has been a total productivity hack. I haul this packed to the brim to and from shoots, use it to bring things to and from the studio, fill it with orders or gifts that need to be shipped to clients or customers… the options are literally endless. It folds down to fit in my truck, too.
For your next photo and/or video shoot:
You’re creating marketing collateral to use to sell your products and services. The photos + video themselves (like booking the creative team, renting a studio, equipment, etc.) plus all the things needed to produce the photos + video (props, materials that will be in the photos, etc.) are important to further brand recognition.
Here, I’ve linked a few of my favorite things to get me photoshoot ready.
A note: This section tends to bring a lot of discussion in the write-off space. I’ve spoken to numerous tax accountants, attorneys, book keepers, tax specialists, and business owners; everyone says something a little different here. You get to assess the level of risk you’re interested in taking on. Ask your tax team their thoughts and choose what makes sense for you and your business.
Sweat Suit Rethink brand photos and have some fun. Although I typically have formal or professional looks on my mind for photo shoots, don’t forget about the opportunity to capture fun and casual images for your brand, too. And with so many colors to choose from, your bound to find an option in an on-brand color for you!
On Brand Coat This comes in a bunch of colors and is perfect for a brand photo shoot in the spring or fall months outside to bring a punchy brand color into your look. I have this in black and a soft lavender that I just love!
Wrap vegan leather skirt Remember when ‘vegan leather’ was called ‘pleather’ but then it got a glow up? Yeah, me too. Lucky for all of us, vegan leather is looking better than ever. This wrap skirt has big boss vibes and I’m kind of obsessed.
Blazer A blazer is never a bad idea. Size up for a cool over-sized look that can be work open with denim for a casual shoot or paired with trousers for a more buttoned-up feel. This one also comes in plenty of neutral colors; You can’t go wrong!
Trench Coat I swear I think you need more than coats and jackets for your next brand shoot! But, you can really stretch your looks in your photos by simply swapping out your top layer! This trench is another great seasonal piece for spring or summer shoots that can easily pair with items in your closet already. It also comes in plenty of neutrals!
Bold Blazer More brand color options here! I mean just look at these options!! This in your brand palette will wow, especially if you have bold colors. Again, I would size up for a cool-girl vibe and be sure to play with the cuffs or collar when you’re shooting for an easy, go-to pose.
Get your hair right I have this on set with me almost every time, both for me and for clients. Even if this doesn’t feel like a write-off for you or your business, you will be feeling your absolute best with a DIY blow out.
And speaking of, I have some hair tips for your next photoshoot here! You’re welcome 🙃
For your business travel
Travel in style One of my 2023 business goals was to expand my network beyond Minneapolis, so that meant hopping on planes for far away clients and conferences in other cities. Business travel can be stressful, but fitting everything in a carry-on is always a good idea. Yes, I travel mostly carry-on only.
Not your jam? Then jam your stuff in the larger size. You really can’t go wrong with this hearty, hard-cover suitcase.
For gift giving galore
Gift like a pro Giving gifts become extra special when you get a little bonus for you, too (in the form of a write-off, of course).
Client, team, and collegue gifts couldn’t be easier to curate and send than with my favorite gifting go-to. Packed and shipped with love (and not by me), makes wowing a guarantee every time.
And, using my code saves you $10 off on your first order of $75+. Believe me, it’s not hard to do!
Speaking of Write-offs…
I’m not pro at this write off business, but my pal Jen McFadyen sure is. I’m damn lucky to have her when it comes to business planning and write-off maximization, but she’s no gatekeeper. Her Business Owner Tax Strategy Guide is an easy investment (and a write-off!) AND will save you thousands of dollars.
For a limited time, she’s offering an exclusive early-access discount. Go save yourself some BIG dough.
And last but not least, don’t forget about ongoing education!
The Good Feed Ongoing education is a no-brainer for every business owner. Investing in learning more to grow your brand is always a good idea!
We’re teaching you how to make the The Good Feed you’ve always wanted to attract those dreamy clients. It’s our same online course we have live now, but you’ll get first access to the all NEW modules coming in 2024, including newly filmed content with the exact strategies we use with our clients @freeafternoon. Consider this a write-off in 2023 that you’ll wildly benefit from now AND in 2024 (when you apply all those hot new learnings, of course).
And one more thing: you’re smart, so be smart.
Write-offs are great, but don’t forget a few serious considerations:
Don’t spend the money if you don’t have it. Spending a dollar to save a penny is silly.
Get support: find resources and a financial team to help you maximize you write-off potential. Every business is different.
I’m not a tax professional! Learn, know your opportunities, and maximize your tax benefits, ya smarty pants!
So… get to shopping! Maximize your tax benefits before the end of the year and use those 2023 write-offs to the best of your ability!
Cheers to being a smart business owner!
