PT from home...what can you deduct?

[Anonymous]

I recently started working PT from home and my technology could use an overhaul. I'm wondering what computer, printer, etc. costs you deducted? Anything else I should think about?

[Anonymous]

Google "IRS home office deduction" -- the IRS has plenty of helpful fact sheets on this. If you are your own employer, look that up as well.

Personally, I work full time, but part of that time from home: I don't deduct anything because I work from home for my own convenience, not my employer's. My employer maintains an office for me regardless of where I work, so (as I understand the rules) I don't get to deduct my home office.

[Anonymous]

You need to know your employment status. If you are a PT employee, you won't be able to deduct anything. If you are an independent contractor, you may be able to expense new equipment. However, it has to be used exclusively for work (no checking DCUM on it, ever).

[Anonymous]

I would add to the previous post that the "home office" needs to be totally for work too, no office/guestroom etc.

[Anonymous]

If you have independent income you can claim your office and whatever percent rent / mortgage but you would need to adjust it on your tax returns vs. personal use of your home. Equipment is usually depreciated as a deduction.