I work as a nail technician in a salon where I’m considered an independent contractor. My boss hired me as a 1099 worker, but my day-to-day work is like a regular employee. I show up, do my job, and leave. I don’t run my own business.
I’ve heard that 1099 workers are treated like small business owners by the IRS, so we can claim deductions for things like travel, meals, and even rent. It sounds almost too good to be true because most of my money goes to food while I’m at work (I work long shifts and eat two meals at work), transportation (I take the train to and from work), rent, and nail supplies.
How much can I actually deduct? How do I prove that my food and train rides were work-related and not personal? This all feels very vague and overwhelming. Any advice?
Technically, you’re running a small business. Even though you work at someone else’s salon, you’re renting space, and you probably have control over your schedule.
You can’t deduct your meals or transportation since those are personal expenses, but you can deduct your nail supplies and rent for the salon space you use. There’s no specific limit, but you want to show some profit to avoid issues with the IRS.
Meals and transportation aren’t deductible for you.
You can deduct nail supplies and rent for your workspace if it isn’t already included in your income statement. You’ll also need to keep records of all cash tips because that counts as part of your taxable income.
Noor said: @Perry
I meant my apartment rent. Can that be deducted?
You might be able to deduct part of your rent if you use part of your apartment for business, like an office or client meeting space. Check with a tax professional.