25 Tax Write-Offs for Airbnb Hosts

NAICS business code: 721100

Reviewed bya tax professionalThis content has been reviewed by an Enrolled Agent (EA) with the IRS — the highest credential awarded by the agency. Enrolled Agents are empowered to represent all taxpayers before the IRS, on all types of tax-related matters. Accountants who earn this certification have passed a comprehensive three-part exam on individual and business tax returns. To maintain EA status, they must stay up to date in the field by completing 72 hours of continuing education every three years.

As an Airbnb host, you're used to putting the finishing touches on a place to ensure guests feel at home when they book a stay.

Here at Keeper, we want to help you fill out your Schedule C with equal flair, to ensure as much of your hard-earned income also stays with you.

The lockbox you bought so guests can enjoy contactless entry? That's a write-off. Property insurance? It belongs on your Schedule C! Buying social media ads to market your listing? You get the idea.

Read on for a list of even more write-offs for rental property hosts.

Property promotion

Marketing materials like postcards, property signs, and even ads can be written off.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 8

Lockboxes & keys

You can write off lockboxes and spare keys you keep outside the property so people can check in without you there.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 27b

Cleaning & laundry

Write off any costs associated with cleaning your property or washing sheets, towels, and other linens.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 22

Utilities

Utility bills, like electricity, gas, and water for the property, can be written off

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 15

Property repairs

A repair only to your home office is deductible in full. A repair to the whole home is an indirect expense, so you deduct it in proportion to your home office percentage on Form 8829.

Where to write it off: Form 8829

Guest amenities & treats

Treating your guests pays off! Write off that bottle of wine or house breakfast.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 22

Airbnb platform fee

The percentage Airbnb takes for every guest? You get to write it off.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 10

Music streaming services

Write off the streaming service you subscribe to so you can play music during class.

Maintenance or redesign

Write off anything related to keeping your rental space safe and cozy!

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 21

If you drive for work ...

If you have to drive to meet a renter at the property or to pick up furniture, decorations, or home essentials, you can write off some of your car expenses.

Parking

Parking for a meeting downtown, or any other work trip, is tax-deductible!

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 9

Tolls

A toll while driving to or from a work destination is tax-deductible!

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 9

Car purchase & depreciation

If you buy a new car, you can write off part of the cost every year for five years.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 13

Vehicle tool kit

Flashlights, tire iron, duct tape, and other tools you may need in your vehicle are deductible.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 22

Car insurance & registration

Car insurance monthly fees, registration, even roadside assistance are partially deductible.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 9

Car maintenance

Oil changes, repairs, and regular checkups are all tax-deductible if you drive for work.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 9

If you discuss work at a restaurant ...

Whether you're a new or seasoned rental property host, there's a lot to be gained from meeting with fellow property hosts or rental owners to learn from their work experiences.This counts as a business meal, so you can write off the cost of the meal.

Business meals

If you discuss work with a coworker, mentor, client, or prospective client, it's a write-off! Keep in mind business meals are only 50% deductible.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 24b

If you leave town for work ...

If you travel to scope out a new potential rental property or to attend a real estate conference in another city, you can write off the associated costs because it counts as a business trip.

Transportation

Planes, trains, and car rentals are all work-related travel costs that can be written off.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 24a

Travel lodging

When you travel for work, lodging expenses such as hotel rooms or Airbnb are write offs.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 24a

Meals while traveling

When you're traveling for work, your meals are a write-off, even takeout. Like all business meals, they're 50% deductible, whether you eat on the road or close to home.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 24b

If you work from home ...

If you work from home, on things like renter communication or writing and advertising property listings, lower your taxable income by deducting your home office expenses.

Home office furniture

A desk, chairs, lamps, and other home office necessities are all tax write-offs.

Where to write it off: Schedule C, Box 18

Property repairs

A repair only to your home office is deductible in full. A repair to the whole home is an indirect expense, so you deduct it in proportion to your home office percentage on Form 8829.

Where to write it off: Form 8829

Power bill

Gotta keep the lights on in your home office! A portion of your electricity bill counts.

Where to write it off: Form 8829

Property insurance

Whether it's rental or homeowners insurance, you can write off a portion through your home office deduction.

Where to write it off: Form 8829

Water bill

It'd be hard to work in an office without running water, huh? You water bill counts.

Where to write it off: Form 8829

Wi-Fi bill

Your Comcast bill is a tax write-off. You need internet to do your job!