Food & Hospitality

Tax help for caterers

Caterers deduct food costs through cost of goods sold and offset the rest of their income with equipment, staff, and transport.

Prepared by real tax specialists — with Enrolled Agent or CPA review when your return calls for it.

Self-employed caterers report on Schedule C and pay self-employment tax on net profit.

Food and beverage purchased for events flows through cost of goods sold, while labor, rentals, and vehicle costs are deducted separately.

Income you’ll report on: 1099-NEC, 1099-K.

Save money

Deductions for caterers

Most people in this line of work leave money on the table. Here's what we make sure to capture:

  • Food and beverage costs through cost of goods sold
  • Wages or contract pay for event staff
  • Kitchen equipment, serving ware, and supplies
  • Vehicle costs for transporting food and gear
  • Rental of tables, linens, and equipment
  • Licensing, permits, and food-handler certifications
  • Liability and event insurance
Watch out for

What makes your taxes different

  • Food sold to clients is cost of goods sold, distinct from your own deductible business meals
  • Maintaining inventory may require accounting for unsold or on-hand food
  • Hiring staff brings payroll tax and reporting obligations
  • Income is reportable whether paid directly or through a platform
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do caterers pay self-employment tax?

If you earn as an independent contractor, yes — self-employment tax is 15.3% (Social Security and Medicare) on your net profit, on top of regular income tax. You deduct half of it, and every business deduction lowers what you owe. We handle the calculation on Schedule SE.

What can caterers write off?

Common write-offs include food and beverage costs through cost of goods sold, wages or contract pay for event staff, kitchen equipment, serving ware, and supplies, vehicle costs for transporting food and gear, plus a share of your phone and any home-office use. We go through your year line by line so nothing legitimate gets missed.

Do caterers need to pay quarterly estimated taxes?

If you expect to owe $1,000 or more for the year, the IRS generally wants quarterly estimated payments to avoid an underpayment penalty. We calculate them so next April isn't a surprise.

Do I have to report income if I didn't get a 1099?

Yes. Your income is taxable whether or not a client or platform sent a 1099. We report it correctly and offset it with every deduction you qualify for.

Taxes handled · so you can get back to work.

Tell us what you've got and we'll come back within one business day with the plan and the price · from a preparer who knows your line of work.

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