Tax Break for Working from Home

Tax Break for Working from Homeにまつわる役立つ知識を分かりやすく発信ます。

Please, for the love of all that is holy, do not try to deduct your entire Netflix subscription because you “watch business documentaries.” The IRS has heard that one before. Also, don’t claim your dog as a “home security system”—cute, but not legal.

Another pitfall? You can’t take the home office deduction if your office is a corner of your bedroom and you also sleep there. The IRS doesn’t consider your pillow as a “separate structure.” So keep your workspace and sleep space distinct, or risk an audit that’s less fun than a flat soda.

How to actually do this without crying

First, keep receipts. Real ones, or digital ones. You need proof like a detective building a case. Next, measure your office space. A tape measure is cheaper than a tax attorney. Then, choose your method—regular or simplified—and fill out Form 8829 if you’re self-employed. Or just use tax software; it practically whispers the answers to you.

If you’re a freelancer, this deduction can save you hundreds—maybe thousands—of dollars. That’s a whole new supply of highlighters and stress balls. And if you’re an employee? Don’t despair. You can still deduct unreimbursed business expenses if they exceed 2% of your adjusted gross income, thanks to a weird loophole in 2020s tax law. But double-check with a pro, because tax laws change faster than your cat’s mood.