What Counts as a Deductible Uniform in Your Business?
When you’re running a business, every dollar counts, including what you spend on uniforms. But there’s a catch: not all work clothes qualify for a tax write-off.
Before you assume that logo polo or pair of steel-toed boots is deductible, let’s talk about what the IRS actually allows and how you can make the most of it.
What the IRS Considers a “Uniform”
According to IRS guidelines, to be deductible, a uniform must be both:
Required as a condition of employment or business, and
Not suitable for everyday wear.
In other words, if the clothing is something you or your employees wouldn’t reasonably wear outside of work, and it’s required to do the job, it’s likely deductible.
Examples of Deductible Uniforms
Scrubs worn by healthcare professionals
Branded shirts required by your company dress code
Safety gear (steel-toed booths, goggle, hard hats)
Chef coats or aprons with logos
Specialized uniforms for service industry jobs (cleaning services, lawn care)
What’s Not Deductible
Business casual clothes, even if you only wear them at work
Suits or dresses worn for professional appearance
Jeans and T-shirts (unless they’re branded and required)
Clothing that could double as street wear, even if you personally wouldn’t wear it off the clock
Can you Deduct Clothing and Maintenance Costs?
Yes! If your uniforms meet the criteria above, then cleaning, laundering, or dry cleaning costs are also deductible. Keep those receipts or track your expenses if you’re using a laundry service.
How to Claim Uniform Deductions
If you’re a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, you’ll likely claim these deductions on Schedule C as part of your business expenses. Be sure to categorize it correctly (often under “Supplies” or “Uniforms”) and keep documentation showing:
the uniform is required for your work,
it isn’t suitable for everyday wear,
you paid for the cost of purchase and upkeep.
For businesses with employees, you can deduct the cost of uniforms you purchase or reimburse. Just be sure those reimbursements are structured correctly through payroll or expense reimbursements.
Pro Tip: Branding Matters
👉 If you’re debating whether to invest in uniforms, adding your company logo to shirts, jackets, or hats is one way to strengthen your brand and meet the IRS standard for a deductible uniform.
👉 Need help figuring out what qualifies? Our team can make sure you’re getting every deduction you’re entitled to, uniforms included, through monthly bookkeeping. Let’s put more dollars back in your pocket!
Click below to schedule your free consultation, or call our office at (931) 477-8417!