7 tax deductions veteran-owned businesses are missing.
Most veteran-owned trade businesses leave thousands on the table every April. Here are the seven most common — and how to claim each one. No jargon, no pitch. Print it, take it to your CPA, use it.
Section 179 equipment deduction
Who qualifies: Any trade business that bought a truck, trailer, or tools over $2,500
How to claim: Deduct the full purchase price the year you buy it, up to $2.56M for 2026. No depreciation schedule.
Home office deduction
Who qualifies: Anyone with a dedicated workspace at home used regularly for business
How to claim: Measure the square footage. Deduct that percentage of rent/mortgage, utilities, and internet.
Vehicle mileage vs. actual expenses
Who qualifies: Anyone driving for work
How to claim: Track miles. 72.5¢/mile Jan-Jun 2026, 76¢/mile Jul-Dec (IRS mid-year split). Or actual expenses (gas, insurance, repairs) + depreciation. Pick one.
Startup costs (first year)
Who qualifies: New businesses in the first year
How to claim: Up to $5,000 of startup costs + $5,000 of organizational costs, deducted year one.
Augusta Rule (Section 280A(g))
Who qualifies: Any business owner who owns a home
How to claim: Rent your home to your business up to 14 days/year. Tax-free to you, deductible to the business.
Retirement plan contributions
Who qualifies: Sole proprietors and LLC owners
How to claim: Solo 401(k): $24,500 employee deferral in 2026 (up to $72,000 total with employer contributions). SEP-IRA: up to 25% of compensation. Both are pre-tax deductions.
Veteran-specific state exemptions
Who qualifies: Disabled veterans in MD and DE
How to claim: MD: full property-tax exemption on your primary residence if you are 100% service-connected and permanently totally disabled — no dollar cap; partial relief at lower ratings. DE: varies by county. File with your local assessor.
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Important: This is general educational information, not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax law changes and every situation is different. Confirm anything here with a licensed CPA or tax professional before relying on it.