If you’re working from home or running a side business, are you claiming everything you’re allowed to?

This is a common question we are asked during tax season – especially from clients who’ve stepped back from full-time work but still earn an income through consulting, freelancing, or self-employment. Knowing which expenses are tax deductible can ensure you get the full benefit of what is allowed.

Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of your deductions without overstepping the line.

Home Office Deductions

If you have a dedicated workspace at home, you may be able to claim a portion of your home office expenses.

To qualify, your home office must:

• Be used regularly and exclusively for work (a desk in the lounge won’t count)
• Be specifically equipped for your trade or work
• If you earn commission or don’t have an employer-provided office, more than 50% of your duties must be done from home

You can claim a portion of:

• Rent, rates and taxes, electricity, cleaning
• Wear and tear on office furniture and equipment
• Internet, phone and stationery

How it’s worked out: If your home office is 10% of your home’s total space, you may claim 10% of the relevant household expenses.

Travel Deductions

If you use your personal vehicle for work, you can claim a deduction – but only for business travel, not your daily commute.

To claim, you must:

• Keep a logbook with odometer readings on the first and last day of the tax year
• Record each business trip with the date, destination, reason, and distance

You can claim:

• A portion of car costs (fuel, maintenance, insurance)
• Parking and toll fees
• Flights, accommodation, and meals for business-related travel
• Conference, training, or seminar costs (including registration, travel and accommodation)

You can calculate the deduction using SARS’s official rates per kilometre (based on your vehicle’s value) or by using your actual costs, with supporting documents.

What you can’t claim (even if it feels work-related)

There are a few common misconceptions when it comes to tax deductions:

• A desk at home doesn’t automatically qualify as a home office
• Everyday clothing worn to work is not deductible (unless it’s a uniform or protective gear)
• Most business meals are only 50% deductible
• Commuting between home and your regular workplace is not claimable
• Small expenses still need to be documented – SARS expects complete records, even for minor costs

Keep Good Records

The golden rule: keep detailed records of what you spent, why you spent it, and how it relates to your work income. SARS won’t allow deductions without proof – so tools like digital logbooks or expense-tracking apps can really help.

Tax rules change, and every person’s situation is unique. If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a deduction – especially if you’re half-in and half-out of retirement or juggling multiple income sources – it’s worth speaking to your Chartered Tax Specialist or referring to the SARS guidelines.