Natwerk Designs

Is purchasing Adobe Creative Suite, a Wacom tablet, and a drafting desk tax deductible?

They'll be immediately used to assist in portfolio and resume preparation before a job search, and possibly in the future for other illustration and design. I am currently employed, and could, in theory, use the software at my office to do this, but it would raise eyebrows and be indiscreet. In order to deduct those purchases, will I have to file for miscellaneous income by taking on freelance work that utilizes them? Thanks Walter, thanks Is there a minimum amount of income I need to earn using the software for it to count toward a deduction? Does it need to be my primary source of income? Does doing pro bono design work make any kind of difference?

Public Comments

1. AK, these expenses would not be deductible since they are not being currently used in a trade or business. However, keep a record of the dates of purchase and the amounts. Later, if you are in your own freelance business, the market value of these assets may be depreciated over a period of time, depending on the percent of business use.
2. You cannot deduct more than you earn. These items must be used exclusively for your business. Home office deductions are one of the biggest red flags for the IRS. They can come out to your house unannounced and check your computer
3. No, not for resume preparation. If you are using them in your own business, then possibly, at least partially. .