Considerations If you expect your company to turn a profit from the start, it might be worth delaying some of the bills from your startup investment. Typically, you can go back one year from the startup date. You may be able to write off some of that investment immediately but not all of it. Margin Interest Tax Deduction Caps. If you started a business last year and incurred some expenses before you officially opened your doors, you may be entitled to deduct certain startup and organizational costs on your tax return this year. Every year, millions of startups spring up around the globe, as business owners try to succeed in numerous industries. But the IRS has strict guidelines you must follow to claim them.