After month of looking, you found your dream job! It’s everything you’ve always wanted. Only problem is that it’s located about 500 miles away. Moving is expensive. You heard somewhere that moving expenses are tax deductible. Is that true?
Moving expenses can be tax deductible for “reasonable” transportation, storage, and other relocation costs, other than meals. But the deduction is only allowed under specific circumstances when you experience a job-related home move.
Answering three important questions will help you determine whether your moving expenses are eligible income tax deductions:
Is the Move for Work or Business?
To be considered a deductible expense, your move must correspond with the timing and location of starting a new job or business. Moving expenses that are incurred within one year of starting that new job or business can be considered for the deduction, assuming other tests are satisfied.
Is New Work 50+ Miles from your Old Home?
Your new workplace must be at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your old job location was from your old home. If you had no previous workplace, your new job location must be at least 50 miles from your old home.
Did You Work Enough Post-Move?
Also known as the “time test,” employees must work for 39 or more weeks during the 12-month post-move period to take advantage of the moving expense deduction. Entrepreneurs and owners must engage in their business for 39 or more weeks during the 12-month period.
The distance and time tests rules do not apply if you are a member of the Armed Forces and your move was due to a military order and permanent change of station. To claim moving deductions, file IRS Form 3903. Want more info? Check it out at http://bit.ly/2ca0HlW.