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Complete Tax Deduction Checklist 2024
Don't leave money on the table. Use this comprehensive checklist to identify all possible deductions and maximize your tax savings.
$12,950
2024 Standard Deduction (Single)
$25,900
2024 Standard Deduction (Married)
300+
Possible Tax Deductions
Personal & Itemized Deductions
Medical & Health
- Medical insurance premiums (if self-employed)
- Prescription medications
- Doctor visits and medical procedures
- Dental and vision care
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Long-term care insurance premiums
Home & Property
- Mortgage interest
- Property taxes
- Home office expenses (if applicable)
- Energy-efficient home improvements
- Moving expenses (military only)
- Casualty and theft losses
Education
- Student loan interest
- Tuition and fees
- Educational supplies for teachers
- Professional development courses
- Educational travel expenses
Charitable Contributions
- Cash donations to qualified charities
- Non-cash donations (clothing, household items)
- Volunteer mileage
- Out-of-pocket expenses for volunteer work
Business & Self-Employment Deductions
Office & Equipment
- Office supplies and equipment
- Computer and software
- Office furniture
- Business phone and internet
- Office rent or home office
Travel & Transportation
- Business mileage
- Airfare and hotels
- Meals during business travel
- Parking and tolls
Professional Services
- Legal and professional fees
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- Business insurance
- Professional memberships
- Continuing education
Marketing & Advertising
- Website development and maintenance
- Advertising expenses
- Business cards and promotional materials
- Trade show expenses
Expat & International Deductions
International Living
- Foreign housing exclusion/deduction
- Moving expenses (overseas moves)
- International tax preparation fees
- Currency exchange losses
- Educational expenses for dependent children
UN Employee Specific
- UN pension contributions
- Professional development allowances
- Home leave travel expenses
- International school fees
- Hardship allowances
Important Notes & Requirements
- Keep detailed records and receipts for all deductions
- Itemized deductions must exceed the standard deduction to be beneficial
- Some deductions have income limitations or phase-outs
- Business expenses must be ordinary and necessary for your trade
- Consult a tax professional for complex situations
Record Keeping Best Practices
What to Keep
- Original receipts and invoices
- Bank and credit card statements
- Mileage logs for business travel
- Photos of damaged property
How Long to Keep
- Tax returns: 7 years minimum
- Supporting documents: 3-7 years
- Property records: Until sale + 7 years
- Employment records: Indefinitely
Need Help Maximizing Your Deductions?
Don't risk missing valuable deductions or making costly mistakes. Let an IRS Enrolled Agent review your situation and ensure you're getting every deduction you deserve.