I am a healthcare professional with a Podcast that is part of my business. I make the podcast at home. Can i claim a home office credit ?

[TomD8]

To deduct expenses for business use of your home:

As a general rule, you must use a part of your home regularly and exclusively for business purposes. The part of your home used for business must also be:
- Your principal place of business, or
- A place where you meet clients or customers in the normal course of business, or
- A separate structure not attached to your home. Examples could include a garage or a studio.

[Zxxy]

THat is NOT my question. I do not claim a home expense. I inputed communication expenses such as telephone. BUT the output on the return showed this as UTilities! I believe the software is defective.

[AmyC]

Gas, electric, phone and water are the basic utilities and should show under utilities. You can claim home office expenses as long as you qualify and have a positive income. Here are some handy links to help:

Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center - complete guide

• Publication 535, Business Expenses
• Publication 583, Starting a Business and Keeping Records
• Self-Employment Taxes
• Deducting Expenses
• Recordkeeping
• Hobby or a Business. 
• IRS pub 538.   
• Audit Techniques Guides (ATGs)

@Zxxy