Patrice
New Member

Deductions & credits

No. You cannot deduct lost earnest money deposits. IRS states this on their website:

"Nondeductible payments.   You cannot deduct any of the following items.

  • Insurance (other than mortgage insurance premiums), including fire and comprehensive coverage, and title insurance.

  • Wages you pay for domestic help.

  • Depreciation.

  • The cost of utilities, such as gas, electricity, or water.

  • Most settlement costs. See   Settlement or closing costs  under Cost as Basis, later, for more information.

  • Forfeited deposits, down payments, or earnest money."