Let’s talk about something most writers avoid until the last minute: taxes.

I know—it's not glamorous. It doesn’t sparkle like a new cover reveal or feel as exciting as a book launch or a festival appearance. But here’s the truth: understanding the business side of being an author is what separates the hobbyists from the pros.

If you're making money from your writing—whether that's from book sales, speaking gigs, signings, or freelance editorial work—you’re a business owner.

That means you can (and should) be tracking your business expenses. And no, you don’t need to be registered as an LLC or have a fancy business name. If you’re operating solo, the IRS / ATO likely considers you a sole proprietor by default.

And that comes with perks—like being able to deduct legitimate expenses related to your author career.

But wait—what exactly is deductible?

Glad you asked. Most authors know about the big stuff—editors, covers, printing—but miss a lot of smaller, everyday expenses that really add up over the year.

Here are some common write-offs you might not be claiming (yet):

1. 💻 Writing and publishing tools

Scrivener, Vellum, Canva Pro, MailerLite, your website hosting, even that Zoom Pro account you use for reader Q&As. If a tool helps you write, publish, or promote your book—it’s likely deductible.

2. 📚 Craft books and online courses

Bought a book on character arcs? Joined Fiction Writing Academy or another writing course? Attended a writing conference? These are educational expenses tied to your profession. Track them.

3. 📦 Proof copies, giveaways, and reader copies

That stack of books you ordered for your launch team? Giveaway copies for Goodreads or Instagram? Even that small batch of signed books for your table at a local event? All potentially deductible.

4. ✈️ Travel tied to your writing

Planning to attend the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival? Traveling for a book signing, retreat, or research trip? If it’s tied directly to your writing business, you may be able to deduct your flights, hotel, and even part of your meals.

Pro tip: Save every receipt and jot down the purpose of the trip—it’ll help your accountant (and future you) come tax time.

5. 🤓 Professional services

Cover designers, editors, audiobook narrators, virtual assistants, ad managers—if you’re paying someone to support your writing or publishing process, those are business expenses.

So…do I need to be a financial expert?

Nope. You just need a basic system to track your income and expenses—and ideally a tax professional who understands creative businesses.

Even if you’re not earning a ton yet, it’s worth building this habit now. You’ll thank yourself later when things take off.

If you’re just starting out and not sure what qualifies, keep your receipts anyway. Bring them to your accountant and ask what applies. You might be surprised by how much you can write off.

Why this matters now

Events like the Sunshine Coast Fiction Festival are incredible for connection, visibility, and reader engagement—but they’re also legitimate business activities.

From your travel and lodging to the books you bring and the banners you print—those are real expenses tied to your author career.

Tracking them isn’t just about staying legal. It’s about making the most of your income so you can invest back into what matters: your stories, your readers, and your growth.

I know this isn’t the sexy side of writing. But knowing what to track—and when—can literally save you thousands.

So don’t shove your receipts in a shoebox and hope for the best. Start treating your author business like it is a business. (Because it is.)

You’ve worked hard to build something real. Protect it.

And if you’ll be at SCFF? I’ll see you there—with receipts in one hand and Sharpies in the other.

Sarah 🩷

PS: I am not a Financial Advisor and this is just my advice. Please consult your accountant.