Am I required to take a particular deduction? Taking a deduction for extra prop taxes paid in 2017 seems to trigger AMT. Can I elect not to claim deduction to avoid AMT?

[CarolynM · Accepted solution]

No, you are not required to take a particular deduction, and yes, you can elect to exclude to avoid AMT. Itemized deduction are optional. so if you are better without claiming an expense, you are free to exclude it.