I can write off taxes for large purchases. Does that include the contractors who put on our patio last year?

[DawnC0 · Accepted solution]

If you are referring to your personal residence , home improvements would not be deductible unless they are qualified energy efficient.

If you make improvements which increase your home’s market value and/or extend its useful life, you can add to the cost basis of your home, which may reduce the capital gain when you sell your property.

In addition, you may be able to deduct the sales tax paid for building materials for a major improvement to the home if you itemize deductions and choose the sales tax deduction over state income taxes paid.

See Home Improvements and Your Taxes

Sales tax on home construction or renovation is deductible if your state, county, or locality imposes a sales tax on home sales or renovations. You must purchase the materials and pay the tax, or when the contractor is your agent under the contract and must follow your directions on construction decisions, it will be as if you purchased the items and paid the sales tax. The tax rate must be the same as the general sales tax rate and you must itemize deductions.

[benjamin-sipe]

I meant writing off the sales tax. When I purchased a car I was able to write off the sales tax. Can I write off specially the sales tax for the contractor work, the materials or both?

[DawnC0]

You can deduct sales tax on building materials and your contractor services IF those taxes are specifically listed and if they are charged at the same rate as general sales tax.

[benjamin-sipe]

Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to know!