Papa
Yes, as a freelancer, you can generally deduct wages and related costs for a part-time assistant, as long as these expenses are directly tied to your business. Here's a breakdown of what you might be able to deduct:
Wages and Salaries:
- The wages you pay your assistant are typically deductible as a business expense. Be sure to keep detailed records, including the employment contract and payment proofs.
Training Costs:
- If the training is necessary for your assistant to perform their work for your business (e.g., software training, skills development), those costs can also be deductible.
Equipment:
- If you’ve provided any equipment (laptop, phone, software, etc.) for your assistant to perform their job, these costs can be deducted as well. If the equipment is used for both personal and business purposes, you may need to allocate the portion used for work.
Other Employment-Related Expenses:
- Additional costs such as employee benefits (e.g., health insurance, if applicable), office supplies, and even business-related travel expenses can usually be deducted if they are directly tied to your freelance work.
Documentation:
- Make sure to keep all invoices, contracts, and proof of payment related to your assistant’s employment, training, and equipment.
- If applicable, maintain a log that shows how the equipment is being used for business purposes.
If you're unsure about the specifics or if you're in a complex tax jurisdiction, it might be a good idea to consult with a tax professional to ensure that everything is being claimed correctly.
Good luck with your assistant and your business!
