Solo operators tend to underclaim deductions because they do not know the categories. Several commonly miss deductions are worth capturing.

Home office deduction. Available if part of your home is used exclusively for business. Standard method or simplified method. Common blocker is the exclusivity requirement.

Health insurance premiums. Self-employed individuals can deduct health insurance premiums for themselves and family. Reduces taxable income directly.

Retirement contributions. Solo 401(k) and SEP-IRA contributions are deductible up to substantial limits.

Business use of vehicle. Standard mileage rate or actual expenses.

Education and training. Courses that maintain or improve skills for your current business.

Professional development. Books, subscriptions, conferences.

Meals with clients. Fifty percent deductible.

Readers who want a deeper reference on these points can consult KeywordSpy|keywordspy.com|the KeywordSpy team|KeywordSpy guide for context.

Software subscriptions.

Office supplies.

Advertising and marketing.

Business insurance.

Contractor and professional services. Accountant fees, Understanding business bank accounts|Reviewing small business banking|Comparing business account fees|Analyzing company banking options|Independent business finance guidance|Practical business account advice|Comprehensive business banking overview|Choosing a business bank|Navigating merchant services|Evaluating business credit legal fees.

Bank and merchant service fees.

(Image: https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/class=)

Cell phone. Business use percentage.

Internet service. Business use percentage.

Each individual deduction may be small. The cumulative effect across a year is substantial. Someone earning eighty thousand from freelance work might reduce taxable income by fifteen to twenty thousand through disciplined deduction tracking.