Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction
Deduct up to 20% of your qualified business income - one of the most valuable deductions for self-employed creators.
Tax Form
Form 8995 or Form 8995-A
Estimated Savings
$2,000-50,000/year
IRS Reference
Publication 535
Income Level
How It Works
The Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction allows self-employed individuals to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income from pass-through entities (sole proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp). This is separate from your business expenses - it's applied to your taxable income. However, content creators may be classified as a 'Specified Service Trade or Business' (SSTB), which limits this deduction at higher income levels.
IRS Rules & Requirements
- Deduct up to 20% of qualified business income from pass-through entities
- 2025 income thresholds: Full deduction below $197,300 (single) / $394,600 (married)
- Content creators may be SSTB (performing arts/reputation-based) - phases out at higher incomes
- Above threshold: Deduction limited by W-2 wages paid or property basis (UBIA)
- Cannot exceed 20% of taxable income minus net capital gains
Real Examples
Net business income $80,000: QBI deduction up to $16,000 (20%)
Net business income $150,000 (below threshold): Up to $30,000 deduction
At $500,000 income as SSTB: QBI deduction fully phased out
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not realizing content creators are often classified as SSTB
- Expecting full QBI at high income levels without understanding phase-out
- Confusing QBI deduction with business expense deductions
- Not filing Form 8995 or 8995-A to claim the deduction
Pro Tip
If you're classified as SSTB and earning above the threshold, consider diversifying income streams (digital products, software) that may not be SSTB to maximize QBI deduction.
Related Deductions
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