6 Tax Deductions You Might Be Ignoring

Tax rules change often, but one thing stays the same—missing out on deductions can cost you. Whether you’re self-employed, an educator, or managing rising expenses, knowing what you’re eligible to deduct can make a real difference in your refund or reduce what you owe.

At Walker Tax Relief, Jennifer Walker, an experienced Enrolled Agent based in Northville, Michigan, helps individuals and business owners uncover these often-overlooked tax-saving opportunities year-round.

Here are six deductions you don’t want to miss in 2025 and beyond:

1. Home Office Deduction
Running a business from home? If you use a specific space in your home exclusively for work, you may qualify for the home office deduction. You can deduct a portion of:

Mortgage interest or rent
Utilities
Property taxes
Home maintenance related to your office

There’s a simplified method or a more detailed option—Jennifer Walker can help you choose which gives you the biggest benefit.

2. Health Insurance Premiums (for the Self-Employed)
If you’re self-employed and not covered by an employer plan, you may be able to deduct 100% of your health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, and dependents. This deduction applies even if you take the standard deduction and can offer meaningful savings.

3. Medical Expenses
Medical costs can add up fast. If your unreimbursed medical expenses exceed a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI), you may be able to deduct them. These might include:

Doctor visits and surgeries
Prescription medications
Medical devices and equipment
Long-term care insurance premiums

This deduction is often missed because many people don’t track these costs throughout the year. A quick review with Walker Tax Relief can help you find out if you qualify.

4. Uncommon Business Expenses
Self-employed or running a side hustle? You may be missing out on deductions for:

Conferences or continuing education
Professional memberships or industry-specific tools
Hiring freelancers or consultants
Business software and subscriptions

Even small expenses can add up. If they’re necessary and related to your work, they may be deductible.

5. Educator Expense Deduction
K–12 teachers, counselors, and classroom aides can deduct up to $300 (or $600 if married filing jointly and both spouses are eligible) for out-of-pocket classroom expenses—even if you don’t itemize. This can include:

Books and educational supplies
Classroom technology
PPE or cleaning supplies
Instructional software

6. Charitable Contributions
Donations to qualified nonprofits are still deductible if you itemize. Make sure to keep proper documentation like receipts or acknowledgment letters. And don’t forget—you can also donate:

Clothing and household items
Appreciated stock or mutual funds (and avoid capital gains tax)
Volunteer-related out-of-pocket costs
Smart giving can support a cause and help lower your tax bill.

Final Thoughts
Tax deductions change with new laws and inflation adjustments, but smart planning never goes out of style. The key is to track what you spend, understand what’s deductible, and work with someone who knows the tax code inside and out.

That’s where Walker Tax Relief comes in. Whether you’re filing this year or planning for next, Jennifer Walker is here to help you uncover every deduction you’re entitled to—no judgment, just strategy.

Serving clients in Northville, MI and nationwide
Ready to take control of your deductions? Contact Jennifer Walker at Walker Tax Relief today.