Would a new roof count as a major purchase?

[SusanY1]

For the purposes of the tax return, only if you paid sales tax on the roof.

[jjf2008]

 SusanY1:

I did pay sales tax of 7% in Florida.  Total bill was over $10K.  How can that help me if I take standard deduction?

Thank you,

Alan

[AnnetteB6]

If you are taking the standard deduction, claiming the sales tax will not help you.  It would only be included as part of your itemized deductions.  

@jjf2008

[jjf2008]

Thank you.  You are very smart and I find your comments extremely helpful.  With that, I now know which road to proceed on.  Again, Thank you very much.

Alan

[DawnC]

You are very welcome @jjf2008 

Just to clarify, if you're itemizing, you get to choose between deducting your state and local income taxes or your state sales taxes. 

You can't claim both and you can't claim either one if you're taking the Standard Deduction.

[jjf2008]

Dear Dawn:

You are good!  You addressed my question quickly, promptly, and even mentioned a couple of things that I hadn't even thought of.  You are smart!

Thank you for your help in this matter.  I great appreciate your time and expert advise.

Sincerely,

Alan