I have a 1098 for vacant land I have a mortage on. Can I deduct this?

[smp102110]

I also have a primary mortgage. This secondary mortgage for the vacant land does not generate income - it is truly just that, vacant land.

[GeorgeM777 · Accepted solution]

No.  The IRS has provided the following information about deducting mortgage interest on vacant land.

Question

I have a mortgage for land that I intend to build a home on. Can I take the home mortgage interest deduction?

Answer

No, you can't deduct interest on land that you keep and intend to build a home on. However, some interest may be deductible once construction begins. You can treat a home under construction as a qualified home for a period of up to 24 months, but only if it becomes your qualified home at the time it's ready for occupancy. The 24-month period can start any time on or after the day construction begins. As a qualified home, the interest paid may qualify as deductible mortgage interest, with certain limitations.

IRS Frequently Asked Questions

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