Buying and renting property is one of the fastest growing trends that people use to build wealth and those who successfully employ this strategy can create a better lifestyle. But part of being an effective real estate investor is knowing how to reduce taxes on rental income. The goal is to minimize taxes so that there is more money to reinvest at the end of the day. Here are three tips for reporting income from rental real estate on a tax return.Rental Income
One of the benefits of owning real estate is the income that landlords generate from rent. The payments increase taxable income so owners must keep an accurate record of rents and report the amounts for each property separately. The tax treatment for rental property depends on whether it is passive income, generated by a company that is in the business of renting personal property, and if the owner used the property at any time during the tax year for personal purposes. Each of these factors will impact taxes differently so be sure to have a good knowledge of the rules that apply.Rental Expenses
The costs of owning the rental property are allowable deductions. Owners can realize significant tax savings with good record-keeping and knowledge of tax guidelines. Three key rental expenses include:
Mortgage Interest. If there is a loan on the property the lender will send a Form 1098 at year-end. This is the statement that shows the amount for mortgage interest, deductible points, and property taxes paid through an escrow account.
Property Taxes. There are instances when property taxes will not be included on a Form 1098. For instance, the cash purchase of an investment property excludes the existence of a mortgage. In those instances, no escrow will be established. Instead, the property taxes will be paid directly by the owner. Refer to the property tax bill and payment receipts for amounts paid during the year. This will be key to reporting the deduction on the tax return. Additionally, investors should be careful to remove from their books any property that they sell or transfer during the year. Exclude those properties from tax returns in future years.
Other Deductions. By claiming property, investors can often lower taxable income with deductions such as depreciation, insurance, and maintenance costs.
These are just a few of the items that owners of rental property should track. To learn more about reporting rental income and expenses visit http://www.tbsusa.com for a free tax organizer that will help maximize allowable deductions for greater tax savings.