Tax · 6 min read

Home Office Deduction Checklist

The home office deduction is safe and powerful when you meet two tests: exclusive use and regular use as your principal place of business.

Qualification rules

  • Space is used exclusively for the business
  • Used regularly as your principal place of business
  • Or used regularly to meet clients in person

Two methods

  • Simplified: $5 per sq. ft., up to 300 sq. ft. ($1,500 max)
  • Actual: business-use % × home expenses (utilities, insurance, depreciation, repairs)
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Keep this documentation

  • Measurement of the office and total home square footage
  • Photo of the space
  • Utility, insurance, mortgage interest / rent records
  • If self-employed: deduct on Schedule C / 8829
  • If S-Corp: reimburse yourself via an accountable plan

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