turbotax icon
cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 
Announcements
Close icon
Do you have a TurboTax Online account?

We'll help you get started or pick up where you left off.

Can I write off the almost $15 k I paid for a new drain field and septic system?

 
x
Do you have an Intuit account?

Do you have an Intuit account?

You'll need to sign in or create an account to connect with an expert.

2 Replies

Can I write off the almost $15 k I paid for a new drain field and septic system?

For personal property - no.  For rental property on a Schedule E - perhaps.

**Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes only and is NOT tax advice. The author takes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information in this post.**
DawnC
Employee Tax Expert

Can I write off the almost $15 k I paid for a new drain field and septic system?

If the property was a rental property or property used in your trade, business, or farm, you can depreciate those expenditures.   As stated above by macuser_22, there are no deductible expenses for personal property.   However, keep track of your personal property improvements as these amounts can be added to your basis when you sell your home. 

 

Capital improvements that add to the value of your rental or business property, prolong its life, or adapt it to new uses must be depreciated over a period of time rather than deducted as a current-year expense.  This would include things like:

  • Remodels and room additions (including decks and porches)
  • New or upgraded landscaping, irrigation, sprinkler system
  • Hardscape such as pavement, block or retaining wall, patio
  • Fencing
  • Swimming pool, spa
  • Storm windows, doors
  • New roof

In other words, if you spent $8,000 on a new roof last year, the IRS won't let you deduct the entire $8,000 from last year's rental income. Instead, the $8,000 must be depreciated, which means you deduct it over a period of time instead of all at once.  To enter your rental improvements, simply follow the directions to enter your rental income and expenses. At some point, you'll come across the Rental Summary screen. Select Start next to Asset/Depreciation and follow the onscreen instructions. We'll figure out which depreciation method works best in your favor.  For business assets, use Schedule C and for farm assets, use Schedule F.  

 

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post
**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"
message box icon

Get more help

Ask questions and learn more about your taxes and finances.

Post your Question