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Tax Benefits of Buying Salon Equipment (A Quick Guide for Beauty Pros)

Tax Benefits of Buying Salon Equipment (A Quick Guide for Beauty Pros)

When you invest in spa or salon equipment, you’re investing in how your space functions every day, how clients feel in your chair, and how confident your team feels doing their work.

What’s often overlooked? That same purchase may come with real tax benefits for your business. With the right planning, equipment upgrades can support both your salon’s growth and your financial picture.

1. Section 179 Deductions for Salon Equipment

Under Section 179, many small business owners may be able to deduct the full cost of qualifying equipment in the same tax year it’s purchased and placed into service, rather than spreading that deduction out over time.

For salons and spas, qualifying equipment often includes:

This type of barbershop or salon equipment tax deduction can help lower taxable income for the year — freeing up room in your budget to reinvest where it matters most.

Deduction limits and eligibility rules apply, so it’s always best to confirm details with your CPA.

2. Bonus Depreciation: Another Piece of the Puzzle

In some cases, bonus depreciation for equipment purchases may also apply, allowing a portion of the equipment cost to be deducted upfront. While bonus depreciation is gradually reducing over time, it can still support small business tax planning when equipment is purchased and in use during the tax year.

For many beauty business owners, this means more flexibility when aligning equipment needs with financial goals.

3. Offset a Strong Revenue Year

If your business had a profitable year, strategic equipment purchases can help balance higher income with deductions, potentially lowering your overall tax liability.

Instead of sending more of that revenue back in taxes, many owners choose to reinvest in equipment that supports day-to-day efficiency, client comfort, and long-term growth. A new styling chair, an upgraded backwash unit, or a refreshed treatment setup supports operations and aligns with smart small business tax planning.

It’s a practical way to put your success back into your space and your team, while building value that carries forward into the year ahead.

What About Financed Equipment?

It’s a common question — and an important one. In many situations, financed salon equipment may still qualify for tax deductions, provided it meets eligibility requirements and is placed in service during the tax year.

Financing allows you to preserve cash while still investing in the tools your business depends on — without putting plans on hold. Learn more about our flexible payment options.

A Friendly Reminder

Every business is different, and tax rules can change. For the most accurate guidance, review current information from the Internal Revenue Service and consult your accountant before making decisions.

A Partner You Can Plan With

Minerva Beauty works alongside owners at every stage — from setting up a first suite to planning long-term growth. If you’re weighing equipment upgrades, financing options, or how purchases fit into your bigger business picture, our team is here to help you plan with confidence.

Browse our full collection of salon, barbershop, and spa equipment to start planning your next move.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can salon equipment be deducted on taxes?
Yes. Many types of salon equipment may qualify as deductible business property when purchased and placed into service. This often includes items like styling chairs, shampoo bowls, and workstations. Always consult your accountant or tax professional to confirm eligibility and limits.
2. What is Section 179, and how does it apply to spa, barbershop, and salon owners?
Section 179 may allow eligible salon owners to deduct the full cost of qualifying equipment in the same tax year it’s placed into service, rather than depreciating it over time. This commonly applies to professional salon and spa equipment used daily.
3. Is bonus depreciation the same as Section 179?
No. Bonus depreciation and Section 179 are different deductions. Bonus depreciation allows an additional first-year deduction for qualifying equipment, while Section 179 is an elective expensing option with its own limits. Both may apply depending on eligibility and timing.
4. Does buying salon equipment help reduce taxes in a profitable year?
It can. Equipment deductions may help offset higher taxable income by reducing the amount subject to tax. This is why equipment purchases are often part of small business tax planning during strong revenue years. Your accountant can help you determine how these deductions apply to your specific situation.
5. Can financed salon equipment still be tax-deductible?
In many cases, yes. Financing equipment does not automatically disqualify it from potential deductions, as long as the equipment qualifies and is placed into service during the tax year.
We recommend consulting a tax professional before making equipment or tax-related decisions.
6. Do tax benefits only apply if I buy equipment at the end of the year?
No. Salon equipment purchased at any point during the tax year may qualify for deductions. Year-end timing simply affects when deductions are applied, not whether they exist.
7. What does “placed into service” mean for salon equipment?
“Placed into service” generally means the equipment is set up and ready for use in your salon. Purchasing alone may not be enough — it must be available for business use within the tax year.
8. Where can I find official guidance on salon equipment tax deductions?
The most reliable source is the Internal Revenue Service, along with guidance from a CPA familiar with your business and local requirements.