While most of us try to identify as many possible write-offs on our taxes that we possibly can each year, there are many qualified write-offs that are often overlooked. Recognize these obscure write-offs and get ready to optimize your next tax return:

• Job Seekers: Expenses related to job seeking can be a legitimate deduction on your taxes. Qualified expenses include phone calls, unemployment agency fees, resume preparation costs, travel and transportation fees, and career counseling services.
• Teachers: Any classroom related expenses such as books, computer equipment (including software and services), supplies, and other materials used in the classroom are legitimate deductions. Save your receipts!
• Home Office: If your home has a space solely dedicated to use as a home office, depreciations in home office equipment, computer expenses (if solely used for business purposes), and even the percentage of heat and electricity used by your home office are qualified deductions.
• Charitable Contributions: Any donation you make to a legally recognized charity is tax deductible, as long as it meets IRS standards. Double check charitable organizations to which you have donated to ensure they qualify.
• Military Personnel: Active military personnel qualify for many legitimate deductions regarding travel, uniforms, and educational expenses. Check with your tax professional to see which write-offs you can claim.
• First Time Home Buyer: As a first time home buyer, expenses such as property taxes and mortgage interest are legitimate deductions on your tax return.
• Energy Efficiency: Tax credits for using energy efficient appliances and heating systems are deductible in addition to alternative energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and residential fuel cells. Energy saving home improvements such as insulation, lighting, windows, and roofs also qualify.

Identifying and claiming these additional tax write-offs positions the educated taxpayer for a greater return come April. Make sure you are claiming every possible deduction and limit the amount of money you shell out to Uncle Sam.

This article is for informational and educational purposes only.  It is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial analysis.  Please consult your attorney, accountant or tax advisor if you have legal, financial planning, or tax related questions.

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