When Are Home Improvements Also a Tax Break?

Homeowners tend to change things after a while, meeting the desires listed on their dream list. The immediate alterations hopefully bring pleasure, but could they also create a tax break? That line depends on the extent and reason for the modification. If you’re looking to deduct your recent home renovation project, consider the following information first.

Was It a Repair or an Overhaul?

The government considers minor repairs not worthy of a tax deduction—things like painting a room or changing out a doorknob fall into the wear and tear category. Owners tend to the issues to live properly or spruce up the area. These repairs do not fall into a tax break category.

Capital improvements, though, could become useful in your tax filing. These projects are major adaptations to the home in which you enhance the property’s value by adding something or redoing a large portion. What does this area include? The following may count as capital improvements:

• Building a pool
• Adding a bonus room
• Renovating an entire space
• Replacing most (if not all windows)
• Installing irrigation lines
• Adding utility systems

Essentially, your project should be intensive and extensive and not just a maintenance chore,

Was It an Energy-Efficient Change? 

The government passed laws allowing for tax deductions for some household improvements that focus on energy use. To encourage people to buy energy-efficient products, they are allowed to apply that to the taxes; thus, if you are interested in solar investment New Jersey, you may be able to save some money by speaking with an accountant about tax incentives.

Was It for Medical Reasons?

If someone has become sick or injured and requires additional support in the home, you may be modifying the premises to suit personal needs. Because these renovations are for medical purposes, you might be able to claim them on the tax forms. Be sure to document the health reason and have paperwork from medical professionals indicating a diagnosis. Then, show the receipts for the changes.

Smaller and larger might be eligible in this category. Depending on the condition, you might have added ramps, altered bathrooms, put in handrails, lowered cabinets or widened entryways. Be specific and note the reasons for the tasks.

Tax breaks may be possible for home improvements if the changes fall into certain areas. If they are medical or energy-efficient, apply them to tax forms with an accountant’s help. For other things, check to see if a tax professional feels that the work is a capital improvement and not a minor repair.