If you’ve ever wondered, “Can marketing be a tax write-off next April?” — good news: it can.
Marketing and advertising costs are considered ordinary and necessary business expenses, which means most of them are 100% tax deductible. According to Paychex, any cost related to promoting your business or finding new customers can typically be written off…as long as it’s directly tied to your business activities.
What Counts as a Marketing Write-Off?
When asking “Can marketing be a tax write-off?”, it’s important to know which expenses qualify. Marketing can take many forms — and most of them count.
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Billboards and print ads — Think traditional advertising like newspapers, magazines, or local posters.
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Business cards and promotional materials — Printing flyers, postcards, or branded merch all count.
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Social media and digital ads — Paid campaigns on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Google Ads are deductible.
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Web design and development — The cost of building and maintaining your business website can qualify.
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Freelance creative work — Payments to designers, writers, videographers, or marketing agencies (like us!) for content creation and branding projects are usually deductible.
In other words, if it helps your business get seen, grow, or connect with customers — it’s likely deductible.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
While most marketing expenses are eligible, there are limits. The IRS allows deductions that are “ordinary and necessary” — meaning your expenses must be common for your industry and helpful for running your business.
So yes to social media ads and branded t-shirts.
But probably no to skywriting your logo over Times Square or hiring a celebrity for a private event, unless that’s truly part of your marketing plan and your accountant agrees it’s reasonable.
Why This Matters for Small Businesses
For small businesses, these deductions can add up fast. Marketing is essential for growth — not a luxury. And knowing that those expenses can also reduce your taxable income makes it easier to invest confidently in your brand.
Whether you’re running Facebook ads, revamping your website, or working with a creative agency like Blue Ridge Creative Marketing, keep detailed records of every invoice, contract, and receipt. Your future self (and your accountant) will thank you.
The Bottom Line
So, can marketing be a tax write-off?
Yes — 100%.
From digital advertising and website creation to promotional products and printed materials, you can typically deduct the full cost. Just make sure it’s connected to your business and documented properly.
At Blue Ridge Creative Marketing, we help brands build awareness and grow — and we love seeing our clients make smart financial moves while they do it.
