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Home office deduction calculator

Compare the simplified and regular methods side by side. Enter your square footage and the annual home expenses you'd apply your business-use percentage to. We'll do the math and show which method gives you the larger deduction.

Office and home
Do you own or rent?
Annual home expenses

These are indirect — we'll apply your business-use percentage. Skip any you don't track.

Direct office expenses

Anything that benefits only your office (paint, flooring, office-specific repairs). 100% deductible under the regular method.

Enter your office and total home square footage above to see the comparison.

A few things to know

  • The regular method requires Form 8829 and meticulous records of every home expense you include.
  • Homeowners can also deduct depreciation on the business portion of the home — but it must be recaptured (taxed as ordinary income) when you sell. This calculator does not include home depreciation; work with a CPA before claiming it.
  • Both methods require regular and exclusive business use of the space — a guest bed, the family TV, or kids' toys in the room can disqualify the deduction for the year.
  • See the full breakdown in The Home Office Deduction Guide.

For educational purposes only. Consult a tax professional before claiming this on your return.