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New Member
posted Jun 6, 2019 2:01:26 AM

Does building asset depreciation have to be spread over 27.5 years?

I have a business home office.  Last year we spent $30,000.00 on all new windows.  Does the depreciation HAVE to be spread over the 27.5 years?  We owe a LOT in taxes this year and was wondering if that time could be shortened. Thank you! 

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6 Replies
Level 15
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:27 AM

$30,000 just on the windows for your office?  Or for the entire home?

New Member
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:29 AM

Entire home.  25% counts to the office in my circumstance.

Level 9
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:30 AM

It is 39 years, by the way, not 27.5.

Level 15
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:34 AM

39 years is for a commercial building, OP mentions home office.

Level 9
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:36 AM

Home offices are depreciated over 39 years. Non-residential real property.

<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p587#en_US_2018_publink1000226357">https://www.irs.gov/publications/p587#en_US_2018_publink1000226357</a>

Intuit Alumni
Jun 6, 2019 2:01:37 AM

 Yes, the building asset will have to be depreciated.  The $30,000 spent on new windows is a capital improvement to the property and is added to the adjusted cost basis of your home and is not a deductible expense.  You will use the new adjusted cost basis when you are calculating your home office deduction.