We’ve all seen the TikToks: business influencers confidently claiming they “write off” luxury cars, lavish vacations, designer clothes, and even their pets’ social media accounts.
Sounds tempting, right?
But here’s the truth: the IRS doesn’t take tax advice from influencers — and neither should you.
The Write-Off Myth
Social media has made business ownership look glamorous — and in some ways, it is. But it’s also a legal, financial, and tax-heavy responsibility. One of the biggest misconceptions floating around the internet is that anything can be written off if you say it’s “for your business.”
Unfortunately, that’s not how it works.
“Write-off” does not mean “free.”
It simply means you may be able to deduct certain qualified expenses from your taxable income — if they meet the IRS’s strict criteria.
So What Is Deductible?
The IRS allows deductions for ordinary and necessary expenses directly related to running your business. That might include:
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Office supplies and software
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Business-related mileage or travel
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Equipment and depreciation
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Professional services (like bookkeeping 👋)
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Marketing and advertising
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Employee wages and benefits
Notice what’s not on this list? Your $6,000 handbag, first-class vacation to the Maldives, or your dog’s influencer photoshoot. If it’s not directly tied to your business operations, it’s not deductible — and trying to claim it anyway could trigger an audit.
Don’t Risk It — Get Real Guidance
At Rae’s Accounting, we’ve seen what happens when good businesses follow bad advice. The stakes are high — back taxes, penalties, interest, or worse — and the IRS is increasing enforcement, especially on small businesses and high-income earners.
So before you take that TikTok tax tip and run with it, pause and ask: Would the IRS agree with this deduction?
If you’re not sure, we can help. We don’t just file your taxes — we educate, support, and help you make smart financial decisions year-round.
Let’s Get Strategic — Not Risky
Being a smart business owner means playing by the rules — and knowing how to use them to your advantage. That’s where we come in.
👉 Ready to keep your finances legit and optimized?
Let’s talk. Rae’s Accounting has your back.
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