Maximizing Your Income: Tax Deductible Expenses for Bloggers and Influencers

Blogging and social media influencing is more than a passion, it’s a business. If you’re generating income through your content, it’s critical to understand what you can legally claim to minimise your tax burden and maximise your return.

Below is a breakdown of common deductible expenses for content creators operating as a business in Australia.

Equipment and Supplies

If you're using tools like DSLR cameras, lighting kits, tripods, drones, microphones, smartphones, computers, or editing software to generate content, you may be eligible to claim these as capital or immediate deductions. Depreciation may apply for high-cost items.

Tip: Keep receipts and track the business-use percentage of each item.

Home Office Expenses

If you operate from a dedicated space at home, you may be entitled to claim:

• Internet and electricity (running expenses)

• A percentage of your rent or mortgage interest (occupancy expenses)

Note: If you own your home and want to claim occupancy costs, speak with your accountant first—this could trigger future Capital Gains Tax (CGT) consequences.

Travel and Accommodation

Influencers often travel for brand collaborations, shoots, and events. You can claim:

• Airfares

• Accommodation

• Local transport (e.g. ride shares, taxis)

• Meals (if you're away overnight for business)

Always separate personal travel from business travel—mixed-purpose trips must be apportioned.

Advertising and Marketing Costs

Promoting your personal brand or blog is essential and 100% deductible if it's directly related to earning income. Examples include:

• Paid social media ads (Meta, TikTok, Google)

• Giveaways or promotions

• Graphic design for branding

• Sponsored post fees

Training and Professional Development

Upskilling keeps your content relevant. Claimable development costs include:

• Online courses (SEO, video editing, photography)

• Conferences or workshops

• Webinars related to your content niche

The course must relate directly to your income-producing activities.

Record Keeping Is Key

The ATO has increased scrutiny on digital businesses. Influencers and bloggers must maintain:

• Detailed receipts or invoices

• Logbooks for home office or car usage

• Travel diaries for mixed-purpose trips

• Statements for subscriptions or recurring digital tools

Don't Leave Deductions Behind

At Dolman Bateman, we help digital creators stay compliant while maximising their entitlements. If you're earning income as a blogger or influencer, it's time to treat your passion like the business it is.

Become a client today, so you don’t miss out on the deductions you're legally entitled to claim.

Need help?

Call us or book a consultation to get started with your influencer tax strategy.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.