Subject:  Advice on real estate interest deduction

From:  Todd
Date:  Thu, 07 Aug 2003

I live with my girlfriend who owns the house we live in. She has no income, and I support the house. How can I deduct the mortgage interest and property taxes on my return for her house? I would also like to know if I am able to claim her son as a dependent on my return.

If I can not claim the interest or taxes, how can she benefit from this if she does not have any income? Do we basically lose out on this benefit, because it will total just about $20,000 in potential deductions.

Thanks,
Todd

Answer

Date:  Fri, 29 Aug 2003

Hello Todd,

With your current arrangement, you can't deduct the mortgage interest and property taxes for her residence.

Based on the facts you have given me, I can't tell if you can claim the dependent exemption for her son. Maybe.

Have you considered getting married? Filing a married, joint return would handle the tax problems.

Good luck!
Mike Gray

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