Are you a barber looking to save on taxes? Learn which expenses you can legally deduct—from tools to booth rent—and what the IRS doesn’t allow in this 2025 guide.
.png)
As a barber, your clippers might stay sharp—but is your tax strategy? If you’re self-employed, running a shop, or even renting a booth, you’re not just cutting hair—you’re also running a business. That means understanding tax deductions is key to keeping more of what you earn.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the tax write-offs barbers can claim, what to avoid, and how to stay organized. We'll include examples, tips, and even red flags that could trigger an IRS audit. Whether you're a veteran barber or just starting your business, this blog is your go-to playbook for tax time.
Tax deductions—also called write-offs—are business expenses that reduce your taxable income. The lower your taxable income, the less you owe in taxes.
Let’s say you made $70,000 in income this year, and you had $20,000 in business expenses.
Taxable income = $70,000 - $20,000 = $50,000.
That $20,000 in deductions could easily save you $5,000 to $6,000 or more, depending on your tax bracket.
Let’s break this into categories to make it easier:
Anything used directly in the service of cutting, styling, or grooming can be written off, including:
🧾 Example: You buy a set of premium clippers for $400 and a straight razor for $90. That’s a $490 deduction.
You can deduct the cost of:
Note: If you sell products, you’ll deduct them as Cost of Goods Sold (COGS). Be sure to track how much product you purchase vs. sell vs. use for free demos.
Many barbers work as independent contractors who rent a chair in someone else’s shop. This rent is fully deductible.
🧾 Example: $750/month × 12 = $9,000 deduction
Also deductible:
If you run part of your business from home—say for scheduling, bookkeeping, or even doing hair in a dedicated room—you might qualify for a home office deduction.
Two ways to calculate:
Caution: The space must be used exclusively and regularly for business.
You can deduct travel to:
Choose one method:
Use a mileage tracking app like MileIQ or Everlance to stay organized.
If you use your phone to:
Then you can deduct a portion of your phone and internet bill.
🧾 Example: You use your phone 70% for business.
Phone bill: $120/month × 12 = $1,440
Deduction = 70% of that = $1,008
Barbers are always leveling up their skills. You can deduct:
🧾 Example: You spend $350 on a hair artistry workshop and $50 renewing your license. Total: $400 deduction
If you travel for professional reasons:
Make sure to document the business purpose of the trip—this is key if you’re ever audited.
Getting your name out there is a business cost. You can deduct:
🧾 Example: You spend $300 on IG ads and $250 on custom hoodies = $550 deduction
If you wear branded clothing or purchase special aprons/uniforms that are not suitable for streetwear, you can deduct:
Knowing what not to deduct can save you from penalties later. Some things just don’t make the cut:
Even if you’re your own brand, personal grooming (haircuts, facials, skincare) is considered a personal expense.
Unless it’s clearly a uniform or has a logo, clothing doesn’t count. Stylish black jeans or Timberlands—even if you wear them daily to work—are not deductible.
Travel between home and your shop (or shop to home) is not deductible. Only trips between business locations or to meet clients count.
Unless it’s a business meeting with a client or mentor, personal meals are not deductible. Keep receipts and notes if you’re claiming a business meal.
A $5,000 barber chair lined with diamonds? The IRS may challenge whether it's a necessary business expense. Always ask: "Would another barber reasonably need this?"
Jay is a mobile barber in Los Angeles. In 2025, he earns $95,000 in total income. Here’s how he deducts his expenses:
.png)
His taxable income drops from $95,000 to $82,060, saving him over $3,000 in taxes.
The IRS may scrutinize your return if you:
Tip: Keep photos of receipts, mileage logs, and a notes app to log your business purpose behind expenses.
Self-employed? You can still save for retirement and lower your tax bill.
Bonus: Contributions to SEP or Traditional IRAs are tax-deductible!
✅ Track all receipts and income (including cash)
✅ Separate business and personal accounts
✅ Use accounting software or a spreadsheet
✅ Keep a mileage log
✅ Review your deductions monthly
✅ File or extend by April 15
✅ Pay quarterly taxes (April, June, September, January)
✅ Hire a pro if you’re unsure!
Tax season doesn’t have to be a buzzcut to your bank account. With smart planning, you can maximize your deductions, avoid costly mistakes, and invest in your future.
Whether you’re lining up fades, trimming beards, or launching your own brand—don’t forget to line up your finances too.
Need help getting your taxes right as a barber? 📩 Reach out to our team by emailing info@vinceretax.com.
No. You can deduct expenses as a sole proprietor, but an LLC may offer liability protection.
Yes. All income must be reported—cash, Venmo, Zelle, etc.
The IRS recommends 3 years, but 7 years is safer.
Use whichever gives you the larger deduction. Many barbers use mileage because it’s easier to track.
Yes, but only if they actually perform work (like cleaning or folding capes) and are paid a reasonable wage.
Being audited is comparable to being struck by lightning. You don't want to practice pole vaulting in a thunderstorm just because it's unlikely. Making sure your books are accurate and your taxes are filed on time is one of the best ways to keep your head down during tax season. Check out Vincere's take on tax season!
This post is just for informational purposes and is not meant to be legal, business, or tax advice. Regarding the matters discussed in this post, each individual should consult his or her own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor. Vincere accepts no responsibility for actions taken in reliance on the information contained in this document.
For business tax planning articles, our tax resources provides valuable insights into how you can reduce your tax liability now, and in the future.
.png)
At Vincere Tax, we've got the skills and know-how to craft a unique, tailored plan just for you. Trust us – we've got the expertise to make it happen!
Speak with an expert Website Terms.png)
.png)
.png)
Copyright © 2025 Vincere Tax| All Rights Reserved
Privacy Policy
.png)
