Deducting Moving Expenses for Primary Home to Rental Property

[brooklynmoney]

Hi Fellow Mustachians,

I'm moving out of my condo/apt. and turning it into a rental property (at least for the next year). Can I deduct the cost of hiring movers to pack me and move my stuff out (don't judge)? They are taking it to storage and then will later move it to my new (rental) apt. I'm wondering if at least the first part of that is deductible since it involves what will be the rental property. I did some basic online research. I have an accountant and he will figure this out officially for me when it's time, but just curious as I set up my expense tracker. I know any info anyone provides will not be tax/financial advice. Just looking for a broad sketch.

Thanks,
Brooklyn Money

[MrsSpendyPants]

As far as I know, if it was for work, it used to be deductible, that deduction was taken away a few years back although some states (such as Pennsylvania) still allow it to be deducted. 

[brooklynmoney]

Thanks, Mrs.SpendyPants. I know a ton has changed w/ the tax code, so I appreciate the update.

[cchrissyy]

if you were hiring people for cleaning, or painting, or doing minor repairs, in order to prepare it for rental then yes that's deductible. but i think it's too much of a stretch to say the movers are part of that process.  probably some people would claim it but it wouldn't survive your accountant or an audit.  that's my guess.

[brooklynmoney]

Thanks ccchrissyy. Been through and audit and have zero desire to get flagged for one again.