5. Deductions for certain home improvements
Home Office
If you are using a part of your home regularly and exclusively for business, you may qualify for some tax breaks. With the new tax law, the home office deduction remains available for independent contractors or self-employed people whose home office is their primary place of business. However, if you’re an employee who has an office to go to but occasionally works from home, this deduction has been repealed.
Modifications needed for medical reasons and to age in place
For older homeowners who have medical concerns and plan to age in place, their home remodeling projects could involve modifications to support these needs. The projects may vary but could include installing wheelchair ramps, non-skid floorings, adding stair lifts, widening doorways, and even putting grab bars, shower seats, and anti-slip coating in bathrooms. The good news is that the cost of these modifications can be deductible.
However, there are specific conditions for you to qualify for this sweet tax break. For an instance, you will need a letter from your doctor that will certify these improvements were medically necessary. The modifications also need to exceed at least 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.