Why some deductions don't automatically export to TurboTax Self-Employed

Learn what doesn't export from QuickBooks Self-Employed to TurboTax Self-Employed.

When you're ready to file your taxes, you can send your QuickBooks Self-Employed data directly to TurboTax Self-Employed.

Some deductions and expenses don't show up in TurboTax Self-Employed the way you expect them to. Others don't export automatically. But don't worry. You can review everything in TurboTax and make adjustments before you file your taxes.

Expenses and deductions to review in TurboTax Self-Employed

Use your financial reports from QuickBooks Self-Employed to review the deductions that apply to you:

Interest paid

Only the interest of business loans and credit card payments is deductible. If you categorized these expenses as interest in QuickBooks Self-Employed, what you paid shows up in that category on your financial reports. Make sure the correct amount is in the correct field in TurboTax.

Home office expenses

QuickBooks Self-Employed uses the simplified method to calculate your square footage. Basically, you get a flat rate per square foot. Here are the latest rates from the IRS.

When you file your taxes, TurboTax (or your accountant) can help you decide if the simplified or regular deduction method is best for you. If you categorized all of your home office expenses in QuickBooks, you'll know all of your specific expenses as well as your square footage. The total shows up in the home office category on your financial reports.

With this info, you can use either deduction method.

Vehicle loan interest

Only the interest of your vehicle loan is deductible. If you categorized these expenses in QuickBooks Self-Employed, they show up on your financial reports. Make sure the correct amount is in the correct field in TurboTax.

Other vehicle expenses

QuickBooks Self-Employed uses the standard mileage deduction method to calculate your mileage.  Learn more about the standard mileage and actual expenses methods.

When you file your taxes, TurboTax (or your accountant) can help you decide which method is best for you. If you categorized all your vehicle expenses in QuickBooks, you'll know all your specific expenses as well as your mileage. The total shows up in the vehicle expenses category on your financial reports.

With this info, you can use either deduction method.

Keep in mind, some vehicle expenses like fines, tickets, and the principal of auto loans may not be deductible. Always check the IRS website for the latest vehicle deduction rules.

Healthcare expenses

Healthcare expenses and deductions can be tricky. Complete your Healthcare profile in QuickBooks Self-Employed and categorize your healthcare expenses. The total amount you spent shows up on your financial reports.

TurboTax (or your accountant) can show you how to claim these expenses. Here's an overview of how QuickBook Self-Employed tracks healthcare expenses.