Why it’s wrong: A write-off doesn’t mean the IRS pays you for business expenses. It simply reduces your taxable income, which lowers the amount of tax you owe. For example, if your business earns $100,000 and you have $20,000 in legitimate deductions, you’ll only be taxed on $80,000—not get $20,000 back.

Running a small business is rewarding, but it also comes with costs. The good news? Many of those expenses can be deducted to reduce your taxable income. Understanding these small business write offs not only saves money but also helps you reinvest in growth. Here are 10 of the most valuable tax deductions every small business owner should know.