Tax write off - for buying computer etc

You can write it off as long as it is a business and not a hobby. Even if you aren't earning money from the business yet, you can. If that is the case, the loss from the business on Schedule C would be able to be used to offset some of your other income and reduce your tax liability overall.

To write off computers or other asset used in your side hustle, you can write off using the following method in the order of priority -

1. Section 179 expense
2. Bonus Depreciation (Special Additional Depreciation)
3. MACRS - 5 years for computers @200% using mid year convention.

As long as someone is paying you for the side hustle, it's a great idea to write-off computers, etc. You'll have to file a Schedule C, but you don't need to form an LLC or any other business entity. You can take a loss for at least 3 years before the IRS questions whether it's a business or a hobby.