Many new influencers think: “If I buy it for Instagram, it’s deductible.” That designer outfit? Deductible. That beach trip you vlogged? Deductible.
Not exactly.
The Reality: Everyday vs. Business Expenses
The IRS only allows deductions for expenses that are:
- Ordinary → Common in your line of work
- Necessary → Helpful for generating income
Translation: you can’t write off your whole lifestyle just because it looks good online.
What Influencers Can Deduct
- Props, costumes, or clothing that cannot be used as everyday wear (e.g., branded merch, costumes, stage makeup)
- Cameras, lighting, editing software
- A portion of phone and internet bills (for content work)
- Travel expenses if the trip is primarily business-related (shooting content, attending a brand event, etc.)
- Contractor fees (photographers, video editors, etc.)
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What Doesn’t Count (Nice Try)
- Everyday clothes, makeup, and skincare you also use outside of content
- Personal vacations where you “happen to post”
- Rent, groceries, or general living expenses
If it doubles as personal use, the IRS says nope.
Quick Example
Ava buys a $500 cosplay outfit she wears only in YouTube videos. ✅ Deductible.
She also buys a $500 Zara blazer she wears both in content and to brunch. ❌ Not deductible.
Bottom Line
Influencers can deduct real business costs—gear, props, business travel—but not their entire lifestyle. The line comes down to “business-only” vs. “personal use.”
General information only—confirm with current IRS guidance or a tax professional.
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- Track your purchases now with our free Expense Tracker.
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