Claiming computer parts on taxes?

[Lord Banshee]

Ok i work from my home and i need to buy some computer parts for a computer to do only work on. So i am asking can i claim these parts on my taxes? Or does that work only if you actually own your own business. I work for a business not own one lol.

Anyone know anything about this?

Thanks,
Chris

 

[TheToOTaLL]

I only think you can do it if you own the business.

 

[Evadman]

You can write off most of your home office; even if you work for someone else but there are tons of limitations and cavats.

 

[FoBoT]

you will get audited if you try this

http://www.nolo.com/article.cfm/objectI...488D-92C9C81F56BE5CE2/111/159/264/ART/

Be ready to prove to the IRS that you are entitled to take the home office deduction. Here are some steps you can take to help establish your legal right to deduct home office expenses:

* Photograph your home office and draw a diagram showing the location of the office in your home. Keep this information in your tax folder.
* Have your business mail sent to your home.
* Use your home address on your business cards and stationery and in all business ads.
* Get a separate phone line for the business.
* Have clients or customers visit your home office -- and keep a log of those visits.
* Keep track of the time you spend working at home.

 

[EvilYoda]

Yeah, from what I remember, the computer would have to be in a room that's designated solely (or maybe it was just a large percentage of the time) for business use, among other things.

 

[Saga]

If you are contracted and paid as such you can deduct the cost of the computer if it was purchased for the contracted job.

Big play on legalities, however.

 

[Squisher]

Originally posted by: EvilYoda
Yeah, from what I remember, the computer would have to be in a room that's designated solely (or maybe it was just a large percentage of the time) for business use, among other things.

Correct

 

[YoshiSato]

Originally posted by: EvilYoda
Yeah, from what I remember, the computer would have to be in a room that's designated solely (or maybe it was just a large percentage of the time) for business use, among other things.

What if you live in a studio APT. You have only but 1 room!

 

[cirthix]

i swear that the fast video card i just bought was for "buisness purposes" 😀

 

[eelw]

Safer bet would be to get the company to pick up the tab. Well that's assuming they are truly necessary work related upgrades.

 

[YoshiSato]

Originally posted by: cirthix
i swear that the fast video card i just bought was for "buisness purposes" 😀

If your doing CAD or Photoshop maybe.

If your doing accounting NO WAY!

 

[Fenixgoon]

Originally posted by: YoshiSato

Originally posted by: cirthix
i swear that the fast video card i just bought was for "buisness purposes" 😀

If your doing CAD or Photoshop maybe.

If your doing accounting NO WAY!

unless you wanted a top of the line machine 😉