Moving Expenses: Tax Season Can Help Reduce Moving Costs

By Ivana Gertchandez

No matter how much trouble and stress moving is, the good news is that you might be able to deduct a substantial portion of the cost from your taxes! So, this tax season may turn out to be profitable for you. Still, be aware of the fact that when taking deductions you are subject to a few rules.

If you are moving in order to relocate to another position in your company or to accept a new job in another city or state, you'll be able to deduct many of the expenses on your itemized tax form. However, distance is critical as to whether or not you can deduct your moving expenses for tax purposes. Your new home and job must be at least fifty miles away from your old home and job.

If you drive your personal vehicle to your new home, you can deduct a certain amount per mile traveled. All your vehicular expenditures are also tax deductible, so be sure to keep all the receipts. You can also get credit for lodging and meals in the course of your travels. If you ship your vehicle and choose to fly, you can also deduct the cost of transporting your vehicle plus the cost of airfare.

In case you decide to hire a mover, Uncle Sam allows you to deduct the expenses you incur in loading, unloading, pack and unpacking and the cost of lodging and meals while you're waiting for your goods to arrive. You cannot deduct hotels and food expenses after your household is unloaded into your new home.

Some moving companies give you a discount for putting your things into storage, while they wait for a load going to the same area. So, you can also deduct the cost of this if there is something you have to pay for.

Quite a few employers compensate some or all of their employees' relocations expenses. In many cases, this may be credited to you as income, so, it is better to verify it before taking an action to claim tax. Still, expenses far above what your company sets up are tax deductible. This is why it is extremely important to keep all receipts and document everything possible!

All moving charges, including extra charges from moving companies, and other expenses that exceed your employer's allowance can all be tax deductible. But you need to have your paper work in order, otherwise, forget about it!

The IRS also requires that you work for at least 39 weeks for your employer in the first twelve months after you move into your new home. And all moving expenses must have occurred within twelve months after you first report to work at your new location.

You are also allowed to deduct the costs of tearing down and reassembling items such as above ground pools, satellite systems, hot tubs, jacuzzis, and so forth. You can even deduct the tip you give the driver!

Finally, while getting moving quotes from different moving companies and organizing your packing, be sure to research the tax implication of moving. Your should prepare as much as you can, for it may result in a hit or deduction for your taxes. - 29969

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