Investors & landlords

It depends. You can use a 'Single' rental approach or the Multi-Unit approach. Review each below.

Single Rental:

You can split the cost of the duplex either in half if both sides are pretty equal in size or you can use the square feet of the rented portion divided by the total square feet of the duplex. This does require you to allocate costs that affect the entire home. It also allows you to enter all of your direct rental expenses 100% on your rental income Schedule E.

• For the rented part of the duplex asset entry: Use the tax assessment from the city or county to arrive at the part of the cost for the land. In your rental duplex you can just enter the rental portion of the building without including any land cost.  

For your rental duplex portion, enter the cost as determined above and indicate it is used 100% for rental purposes and leave your part of the duplex out. If you choose the method you should select 'Single' family home. Only the depreciation will be recaptured when and if you sell in the future. 

There is no differentiating when you enter it this way, and all of your direct expenses are accounted for at 100%. 

If you do choose to select Multi-unit property see the 'Key Points' below.

• Key Points: TurboTax will prorate the personal portions of expenses that cover the entire property (mortgage interest, property tax and insurance).  The other expenses will be used at 100% assuming they are for the rental unit only.  Be sure to check your return once you complete the rental activity.
• If you decide to use this, then enter the entire cost of the duplex and land in the asset entry.

You have access to all forms when you choose to print your return in TurboTax Online/Mobile.  However you are required to pay before printing, but do not have to file until you are ready.

• Can I print a copy of my return in TurboTax Online before filing?

If you are using TurboTax Desktop you can switch to Forms and review all forms and worksheets.

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