I moved out of my private home and began renting in September of last year. I paid first, last and security and the last 3 months of 2011. C...

Question

I moved out of my private home and began renting in September of last year. I paid first, last and security and the last 3 months of 2011. Can I claim the rent on my taxes...not sure as I have not rented before.

Answer

As a general rule you can not deduct your rent on your home for tax purposes. MA does, I believe have a limited deduction or credit for renters. To the extent you use your home as an office for business an it qualifies for a home office deduction (see the rules), you can take a partial deduction for your rent and utilities.