Can you take a 179 deduction on software?
Andrew Ramirez
Published Feb 28, 2026
In general terms, “off-the-shelf” computer software that (a) is not custom designed, and (b) is available to the general public is qualified for the Section 179 Deduction in the year that you put the software into service.
Can you take bonus or 179 on software?
Section 179 Specifications for the 2021 Tax Year You must provide specific details of the purchase on IRS Form 4562 to claim the Section 179 deduction. The deduction and bonus depreciation can be used for new equipment, used equipment and qualifying software.
Is software a section 179?
Section 179 is an attractive tax deduction for businesses. An increasingly popular use of the Section 179 deduction is for software. When you buy software or equipment for business uses, you can get tax deductions for buying and using them.
Does a website qualify for section 179?
If the website doesn’t have complex programming, the costs to develop and launch the website will be considered an asset. As such, the website qualifies as “section 179 property,” and is thus eligible for the Code Section 179 elective expensing deduction that is generally available only for machinery and equipment.
Can software be a tax write off?
Software. If your business requires specific software to operate, you can deduct the software cost or monthly subscription. If you use accounting software like QuickBooks Online or Xero, your monthly fees are deductibles. If you use project management software like Basecamp or Trello, your subscription is deductible.
What do you need to know about section 179 deductions?
Most people think the Section 179 deduction is some mysterious or complicated tax code. It really isn’t, as you will see below. Essentially, Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year.
Why is section 179 referred to as the SUV tax loophole?
Several years ago, Section 179 was often referred to as the “SUV Tax Loophole” or the “Hummer Deduction” because many businesses have used this tax code to write-off the purchase of qualifying vehicles at the time (like SUV’s and Hummers).
Is the section 179 bonus depreciation available for 2021?
The Bonus Depreciation is available for both new and used equipment. The above is an overall, “birds-eye” view of the Section 179 Deduction for 2021. For more details on limits and qualifying equipment, as well as Section 179 Qualified Financing, please read this entire website carefully.
When does section 179 appear on form 4562?
The Section 179 Summary 4562 will appear first and will be sent first electronically. If you have only one activity reporting Section 179 expense, the 179 expense will be produced on the Form 4562 for that activity. Sec 179 Property Cost Exceeds The Amount Below?