What Expenses Can I Claim?

What Expenses Can I Claim in My NZ Business?

Another big question: “Can I claim this as a business expense?” The IRD’s rule is simple in theory: if it’s directly related to earning your income, you can usually claim it. But let’s look at some everyday examples.

Main Points:

Claimable Expenses (Examples):
- Home office portion (internet, power, rent/mortgage interest)
- Vehicle mileage or logbook portion
- Tools, equipment, software
- Phone bill (business use portion)
- Advertising
- Subscriptions
- Phone
- Fuel
- Insurance
- Supplies

See lists below for more examples

Partly Claimable: Meals with clients, overseas travel, entertainment → usually only part deductible. Claim only business portion.
Not Claimable: Personal items, private holidays, groceries.

☕ Over Coffee Example: A client tried to claim groceries as business costs. Once removed, their profit reports made sense.

Coffee Chat Tip: Keep your chart of accounts tidy. Use ‘General Expenses’ when unsure.

Wrap-Up:
If in doubt, keep the receipt. Your accountant/bookkeeper can sort it later.

Example List:

Creators & Freelancers Expense Codes

Creative Tools & Supplies