Is a Laptop or Computer Tax Deductible? Yes — Here's How to Claim It on Schedule C
100%
Deductible
Line 13
Schedule C
Depreciation (Section 179)
Category
$800–$3,000+
Typical cost
If you're self-employed or own a single-member LLC, your laptop or computer is one of the easiest business expenses to deduct. You can expense the full cost immediately under Section 179 or use bonus depreciation—as long as you use it over 50% for business. Mixed-use devices require you to prorate the deduction based on actual business use.
Who qualifies?
Solo entrepreneurs, freelancers, consultants, and single-member LLC owners filing Schedule C qualify. You must use the computer over 50% for business activities (not personal browsing or entertainment) to claim the full deduction.
How to claim it
- 1 Calculate your business-use percentage (e.g., if you use the laptop 80% for client work, that's 80% deductible).
- 2 Multiply the purchase price by your business-use percentage to get your deductible amount.
- 3 Report the deductible amount on Schedule C Line 13 (Depreciation) using Form 4562, or claim it as Section 179 expensing if the total asset qualifies.
Pro tip
Keep a detailed log of business vs. personal use, especially for devices under $2,500—the IRS scrutinizes mixed-use equipment heavily. If you're unsure of your percentage, document how many hours per week you use it for business to defend your claim in an audit.
Source: IRS Publication 946: How To Depreciate Property
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