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Bookkeeping for freelancers in security: clothing, hours and deductions
Written by Ilias5 min read
As a freelancer in security you often work at changing locations, with irregular shifts and tight deadlines from clients. Your bookkeeping has a few specific points: mandatory clothing and equipment, training and pass costs, and tracking your worked hours. In this article we list them for you.
Clothing, equipment and pass
Security clothing is usually deductible because it's clearly work clothing, often featuring a logo or clearly recognisable as a uniform. Equipment such as a walkie-talkie, flashlight or safety shoes also counts as business costs. Keep the receipts, because these are recurring expenses.
To work as a security guard you need a valid identification document for security personnel. The costs for applying for and renewing your pass and the associated screening are business costs you may deduct.
Training and certificates
The security sector sets requirements for your training. Obtaining and maintaining diplomas and certificates, such as an emergency response certificate or specialist training, is mandatory to keep working. These training costs are deductible because they relate directly to your work.
Keep an overview of your certificates and their expiry dates. This prevents an expired certificate from getting in the way of your work, and keeps the costs neatly in your bookkeeping.
Tracking hours and invoices
In security you often work irregular shifts, nights and weekends. Keep accurate track of your worked hours per assignment, because that's what you base your invoices on. A clear time record prevents discussion with clients and helps you with the hours criterion for the self-employed deduction.
If you work through an intermediary or security company, watch your position as an entrepreneur. The tax authorities check whether you genuinely work independently. Multiple clients and your own equipment help to demonstrate your entrepreneurship.
This article provides general information based on the rules known for 2026 and does not replace personal tax advice. For your specific situation, we're happy to take a look with you.
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