Here’s a detailed list of common deductions for voice professionals:

️ Studio & Equipment

• Microphones, headphones, preamps, mixers

• Audio interface, cables, pop filters, mic stands

• Soundproofing materials (foam panels, bass traps, acoustic curtains)

• Recording booth or home studio construction

• Computer hardware used for recording and editing

• Software licenses (DAWs like Audacity, Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, etc.)

• Plugins or sound libraries

Home Office / Studio Space

If you record or edit from home:

• Home office deduction (portion of rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, property taxes, repairs)

  • Must be a dedicated workspace used regularly and exclusively for business.

• Internet service (portion used for work)

• Electricity and HVAC costs (pro-rated for studio area)

Business Operations

• Website hosting and domain fees

• Marketing and advertising (demo production, social media ads, business cards)

• Professional photos or demo videos

• Voice demo production costs

• CRM or client management software

• Subscriptions (Voices.com, Voice123, Backstage, etc.)

Travel & Client Meetings

• Mileage (to studios, clients, auditions)

• Parking, tolls, public transit

• Meals (only 50% deductible when related to business meetings or travel)

• Airfare and lodging (for out-of-town jobs or conventions)

Professional Services

• Agent or manager commissions

• Accounting, tax prep, or legal fees

• Union dues (e.g., SAG-AFTRA)

• Coaching, classes, or workshops

• Professional memberships and subscriptions

Communication & Miscellaneous

• Phone service (portion used for business)

• Office supplies (notebooks, pens, postage)

• Continuing education (courses, webinars, conferences)

• Insurance (business liability, equipment insurance, health insurance premiums if self-employed)

⚠️ A Few Notes

• Keep receipts and logs — the IRS requires proof that expenses are business-related.

• Track your mileage with an app or logbook.

• Depreciate large equipment or studio build-outs over time if they cost more than a few hundred dollars.

• You’ll likely file using Schedule C (Form 1040) for self-employed income and expenses.