Question

M is employed as a marketing analyst and required by his employment contract to maintain a home office. His office occupies 10% of the total space in his home. He works 3 days a week in his home office and travels the remaining 2 working days. He incurs the following expenses: New desk $900, telephone landline monthly basic rate (10% of total) $180; Internet (10% of total) $400; Utilities (10% of total) $450; House insurance (10% of total) $140; Mortgage interest (10% of total) $800; Property taxes (10% of total) $700; Maintenance (10% of total) $90. What is the maximum deduction from employment income for tax purposes available to M in the current year?

Answer 1

Maximum deduction from employment income for tax purposes available to M in the current year= Utilities + Maintenance = 450+90 = $540

The cost of second telephone line or business related cost and interest are deducted on schedule C as they are treated business expense

Furniture purchased for business is not deductible.