Is News Subscriptions Tax Deductible for Your Business?

Whether news subscriptions is tax deductible depends on how you use it and your specific business situation. The IRS evaluates deductibility based on whether the expense is ordinary and necessary for your particular trade or business.

Key Rules for Deducting News Subscriptions

YES for trade journals or industry-specific publications (WSJ for a stockbroker, AdWeek for a marketer). NO for general newspapers if not directly related to specific business needs.

Requirements to Claim This Deduction

• Must be directly related to your trade/industry
• General news 'staying informed' may not qualify

How to Document News Subscriptions for Tax Purposes

Proper documentation is critical for any business deduction. For news subscriptions, you should:

• Keep all receipts and invoices showing the amount paid
• Record the date of the expense and the business purpose
• If mixed-use, maintain a log showing business vs. personal usage
• Store records for at least 3 years (7 years for major purchases)

Source: IRS Publication 535. This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.