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Depreciation On RV

(Ed asks...)

Can I claim depreciation on a recreational vehicle if the employer requires one for me to work for him? Would there also be other income tax deductions for the RV and related expenses?

Coleen, the editor replies:

My guess is that it depends, at least in part, on whether you have another place to live or if your RV is your only home. As is the case with so many of these tax questions, the best I can do is to suggest that you confer with an accountant or tax professional.

If you are a full-time RVer and your only home is your RV, the IRS looks at your RV differently than if you have another home. That doesn't necessarily mean that you own another home; it could include an apartment you rent or a condo you lease.

If you have another home in addition to your RV, you can usually deduct things that you cannot legally deduct if you are a true full-time RVer with no other home.

I'll see if I can find out more on this. However, I have a feeling the answer is going to be that no accountant is going to say for sure without knowing more details. The answer may also be different for federal income tax than it is for state income tax.

See our tax information section.

Read articles on our website by CPA and tax attorney Martin Shenkman.

Go to the Workers On Wheels Work for RVers and Campers blog.

Comments for Depreciation On RV

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I am Not a Tax Expert, But...

It would seem that if your employer requires that you use an RV in the performance of his business, (selling or demonstrating from or in it), then it would be depreciable. However, if you live in it, the IRS philosophy is that everyone must live somewhere and therefore would not be a write off. I believe your expenses from job to job are deductible, as well as the interest you pay on your RV home mortgage.

You can consult with your tax advisor or call the IRS directly, but be prepared for different answers on this one. Good Luck

Let us know what you find out.

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