Home Office Deductions

Do you use your home for business? You may be able to deduct expenses for business use. If you qualify, you can claim the deduction whether you rent or own your home. There are two methods to claim your deduction: simplified or regular. Here are six tips to help you decide whether you qualify and which method to use for a home office deduction.  1. Regular and Exclusive Use. As a general rule, you must use a part of your home regularly and exclusively for business purposes. The part of your home used for business must also be: • Your principal place of business, or • A place where you meet clients or customers in the normal course of business, or • A separate structure not attached to your home. Examples could include a garage or studio. 2. Simplified Option. If you use the simplified option, you multiply the allowable square footage of your office by a rate of $5. The maximum footage allowed is 300 square feet. This option will save you time because it simplifies how you figure and claim the deduction. It will also make it easier for you to keep records. This option does not change the criteria for who may claim a home office deduction. 3. Regular Method.  If you use the regular method, the home office deduction includes certain costs that you paid for your home. For example, if you rent your home, part of the rent you paid may qualify. If you own your home, part of the mortgage interest, taxes and utilities you paid may qualify. The amount you can deduct usually depends on the percentage of your home used for business. Deduction Limit. If your gross income from the business use of your home is less than your expenses, the deduction for some expenses may be limited. Self-Employed. If you are self-employed and choose the regular method, use Form 8829, Expenses for Business Use of Your Home, to figure the amount you can deduct. You can claim your deduction using either method on Schedule C, Profit or Loss from Business. Employees. If you are an employee, you must meet additional rules to claim the deduction. For example, your business use must also be for the convenience of your employer. If you qualify, you claim the deduction on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions. Not sure what you can deduct? Speak with a tax professional, who can walk you through the steps. W