NAICS code: 711510
Acting is a tough job. While it might be a dream come true for you, as an independent actor, you could be juggling long hours and shifting work timings that can leave you mentally and physically drained. In that case, do you really have time after all that to figure out your taxes?
If you are an independent actor, you can deduct most of what you spent on a film, show or promotion along with research expenses. At the end of the year, it is all about getting your money back.
We have put together a list of the most common write-offs for independent actors that you can use to deduct your expenses.
💄 Beauty services
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
You can write off makeup, nail, haircare services if they’re required for a gig.
👩🏫 Coaching & classes
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
Enhancing and learning new skills through acting or modeling classes is deductible.
💸 Agency commissions
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 10
Commission fees you pay for agency representation are fully deductible.
🎥 Camera equipment
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 22
Any equipment you use to shoot promotional tapes, portraits, and more can be written off.
👤 Headshots
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 8
Getting professional headshots done to book acting and model gigs can be written off.
💵 Union dues
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
If you belong to a union, go ahead and write off your dues.
🌐 Website & hosting fees
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 8
Squarespace, Wix, GoDaddy, and other website service fees are fully tax-deductible.
🖼️ Professional photos
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 11
Hiring a photographer to take professional photos for your portfolio can be deducted.
👙Costumes & accessories
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
Costumes for photoshoots, dance performances, or acting gigs are write-offs.
📱Phone, laptop, accessories
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
If buy a phone or laptop and use it for work, it’s partially deductible.
📚 Educational books
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
Educational books to increase your knowledge and skills are tax write-offs.
📝 Office supplies
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 18
Deduct anything you buy for your office, like pens, binders, folders, printer ink, or a whiteboard.
😎 Self-promotional materials
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 8
Audition tapes, portfolios, business cards: write off anything you use to promote yourself.
🎫 Performance tickets
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 27a
For you, seeing a show counts as research. Study up and write it off!
📱 Social media tools
Write it off using: Schedule C, Box 18
Write off the tools you use to create assets, schedule posts, or pull analytics.