Rent deductible?

[sandhyaepeter]

What is the name of your state? IL

I am confused with a situation. I always did my taxes using TaxAct and never deducted the rent I pay on my apartment (because I always thought one could not). Well, one of my friends went to a CPA to do his tax returns. And apparently the CPA deducted his rent among other things to give him a much smaller tax figure.

Is this right? Can I deduct my rent afterall?

Thanks.

[Zigner]

As a Federal tax deduction?

[sandhyaepeter]

Yes. On 1040.

I was going to see this CPA to look at my own tax returns but now I am suspicious of his way of doing things. Please let me know. Thanks.

[TinkerBelleLuvr]

Unless your friend is running a business (Schedule C) or has a legitimate use for 'home office', it is questionable advice.

I am hardpressed to this that a CPA gave this advice. Is it just a tax preparer that is being called that?

[sandhyaepeter]

The guy is a CPA, not a tax preparer.

My friend does not run any business, from home or otherwise. He is a regular W-2 employee. Both he and wife work. Does their having 2 little kids make the rent deductible in any way? Any other suggestions on why the CPA is able to do this?

I think I will continue to do my own taxes with TaxAct instead of seeing this CPA.

[TinkerBelleLuvr]

Sure would be curious here as to WHICH forms were used on your friend's taxes, because other than a 2106 or a Schedule C, I can't think of any other way to deduct rent.