What can I write off as an artist?

On the other side of the spectrum, a freelancer in the fine arts may have very expensive canvases, supplies, gallery fees, and other expenses that they routinely need to pay for to do their art and promote it. It all depends on the freelance artist.

A professional tax accountant specializing in freelance artists and the self-employed may be a good choice to make sure you're getting the most tax write-offs you can. The following are some tax write-offs you might be able to take as an artist:

• Art supplies

• Educational materials

• Reference materials

• Business insurance

• Promotional or business meals

• Travel expenses

• Copying and printing expenses

• Tickets to cultural events or presentations

• Entry fees in exhibits and gallery fees

• Equipment and software

• Film and processing

• Framing

• Internet and phone expenses

• Legal fees

• Memberships in professional organizations

• Office supplies and mail expenses

• Promotional expenses

• Studio or office expenses (home offices count)

• Travel

• Tax preparation