Can you claim the home office deduction if the office is for studying for your next job?

by **merebear83** on Sat Oct 24, 2009 2:47 pm

That is employment-related, since it's training. So does it count for the exemption?

I want to enroll in an online college & earn a degree that way. If I set up a home office where I do all my studying in that room & don't use it for other purposes, can I legally claim the deduction?

by **thetaxlady724** on Sat Oct 24, 2009 3:52 pm

No. The computer and internet connection aren't deductible either.

And don't even try it, the IRS is going to see the lack of income and fix your tax return.

By the way, the training is *not* business related until you already have a job. A new degree generally entitles you to a new job description and the IRS says that kind of training is never deductible as a business expense.

by **Judy124861** on Sat Oct 24, 2009 4:10 pm

by **Mathew850** on Sat Oct 24, 2009 4:32 pm

No for a number of reasons. First it is not a qualified business use. Secondly you would not have any business income.

by **tro719** on Sat Oct 24, 2009 5:18 pm

your office in home would apply to your business, not as a student
you must keep in mind that space you want to claim for business has to be entirely for business, there cannot be anything of a personal nature in the room or the are you want to claim
get publication 34 from www.irs.gov for small businesses, it will help you

Can you claim the home office deduction if the office is for studying for your next job?