Kid's pocket money is my tax deduction ;)

[Hugalicious Ragdolls]

I have just come home from visiting my accountant, and wanted to share a tip that she gave me while I was there.

I pay my teenage daughters $20 per week each pocket money, which at the moment they really don't do much to earn.

My accountant advised that I can 'hire' my kids to help with my business, eg filing, printing etc, then I can claim their $20 per week as wages. They won't have to pay tax as they will be well under the threshold (in Australia you can up to $200 per week before paying tax)

How cool is that! Outsource some menial tasks to the kids, and claim them as a deduction

[msuggitt]

As a Freelancer for the past 7 years, I LOVE the word DEDUCTION...
they were put in place to promote small business so if I am entitled, I take each and every one

[Hugalicious Ragdolls]

I wonder if I get my dog a cape or hat made emblazoned with my business name, and get her to wear it when we go for walks, if I can claim her vet and food expenses

[littleshamrock]

I never really thought about that!! Does anyone know how that would work in the US?
THANKS!