Tax Breaks for Moving
You don't have to itemize to take advantage of a deduction for expenses associated with a job-related move.
I’m moving next month. Can I deduct any of my expenses from my taxes?
The expenses may be tax-deductible if it’s a job-related move. The actual rule is tricky: To qualify, your new job must be at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your old job was from your old home. So if you used to commute 15 miles to your old job, your new job must be at least 65 miles away from your old home. It doesn’t matter whether this is your first job or you are relocating for a new position as long as you satisfy the distance test.
And you don’t have to itemize your deductions to qualify. You can write off the cost of hiring movers (or renting a moving truck) plus the cost of one-way travel to your new home for everyone in your household -- whether it’s airfare, train costs or 19 cents per mile if you drive. You can also deduct lodging expenses while traveling to your new home, the cost of packing your stuff and storing the goods within 30 days of the move, and the cost to disconnect utilities at your old residence and connect them at your new place. Report your moving expenses on Form 3903 when you file your tax return.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
For more information, see IRS Publication 521, Moving Expenses. Also see the IRS Tax Tip about moving for more information.
And for more advice that can save you money on your move, see 5 Cost-Saving Tips for Moving Time.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
As the "Ask Kim" columnist for Kiplinger's Personal Finance, Lankford receives hundreds of personal finance questions from readers every month. She is the author of Rescue Your Financial Life (McGraw-Hill, 2003), The Insurance Maze: How You Can Save Money on Insurance -- and Still Get the Coverage You Need (Kaplan, 2006), Kiplinger's Ask Kim for Money Smart Solutions (Kaplan, 2007) and The Kiplinger/BBB Personal Finance Guide for Military Families. She is frequently featured as a financial expert on television and radio, including NBC's Today Show, CNN, CNBC and National Public Radio.
-
You Don’t Want to Retire in Portugal: Here Are Three Tax Reasons Why
Retirement Taxes With the NHR benefit retiring and pension taxes increasing, you might rethink your retirement plans in Portugal.
By Kate Schubel Published
-
Home Depot's Winning Ways Fueled Its 100,000% Return
Home Depot's wide moat leaves little room for competition – and shareholders have profited as a result.
By Louis Navellier Published
-
New Colorado Tax Credit: What’s the Scoop?
State Tax Everything you need to know about the Colorado family affordability tax credit in 2025.
By Kate Schubel Published
-
Key Family Tax Breaks Are on the GOP Chopping Block This Year
Tax Credits Several tax breaks, including the Child Tax Credit, may face reforms or be cut entirely as lawmakers seek revenue for Trump’s tax plans.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Last updated
-
What's Going on With New Jersey Property Tax Programs?
Property Tax ANCHOR and ‘Senior Freeze’ just got a refresh, and there’s a new program: Stay NJ. Learn how to save on New Jersey property taxes.
By Kate Schubel Published
-
Five States With the Largest EITC Checks
EITC Households in these states received a larger Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) last year.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published
-
Downsize in Retirement With 2025 Tax Benefits: Three Key Strategies
Retirement Taxes Downsizing retirees may benefit from tax savings, lower utility bills, and freed-up income. But could a new presidency impact your home sale?
By Kate Schubel Published
-
Gov. Hochul Vows to Deliver $1 Billion in Tax Relief to New Yorkers
State Tax The proposed tax cuts would benefit New York middle-class families.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Published
-
Maryland Property Tax Assessment: What It Means for You
State Tax Amid a growing deficit, Maryland property values are rising. Here’s more of what to know.
By Kate Schubel Last updated
-
The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): How Much Is It Worth?
Tax Credits This tax break can help you offset $2,500 in qualifying expenses tied to your higher education. Here's what you need to know.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez Last updated