Deduct your music and streaming subscriptions (incl. Spotify)

Can I deduct Spotify for business use?

It is possible to claim your subscriptions to music streaming services such as Spotify, Soundcloud, Apple Music (and others) as business expenses, on one condition: you need to use the service as part of your work and you need to be able to prove it (for example, no firewall that prevents Spotify from being at the office, etc.).

If the use of the subscription service is both private and professional, it is necessary to carefully state what the professional use is. For example, if you work 3 days a week, you apply a ratio of 3 to 7 to the subscription cost. You will deduct 43% of the total cost of the subscription. In Accountable, you can indicate the professional use and the app automatically adjust the deductibility for you – for the 1st expense and all others following.

As you deduct your subscription as a business expense, don’t forget to deduct the device you listen the music to: is it time to invest in a good quality speaker connected to your favorite music? It will deductible to the same percentage as your subscription! It’s a great way to improve your home office setup and greatly reduce your taxes, as the cost of such speakers is generally high. We definitely recommend it.

And is Netflix deductible?

Generally no, Netflix will not be considered a deductible expense for your business as an independent. Indeed, if anything, watching Netflix is not something that will help you achieve higher productivity and flow. The same logic applies to all video streaming services, including Youtube and others.

Please, do not try to argue that you need a Netflix subscription to be able to relax after work.

Exceptions exist if you work in the movie industry or can justify you need this subscription to perform your work. It’s a (small) win for artists & creators ✨