I run a small Etsy shop from my bedroom and want to buy a proper desk. It'll be in the same room I sleep in, but I'll only use it for packing orders and answering messages. My accountant is on vacation and I don't want to bug her. Can I just buy it and claim it as a business expense? Or does the bed proximity ruin it?
Home Office
A desk in my bedroom is still a business purchase, right?
Bed proximity is a new one. Unless you're claiming the bed as a business asset too, you're fine ngl.
I think it depends on how exclusive the use is. If you also use the desk for personal stuff (browsing, eating, etc.) it might get murky. But if it's purely for orders and messages, you can probably claim it. The fact it's in your bedroom doesn't automatically disqualify it, though.
GrumpyToad has a point. But seriously, the test is usually 'wholly and exclusively' for business. If you can honestly say it's only for business, you're good. Keep a log if you're worried.
I tried claiming a desk in my bedroom once. Accountant said it was fine as long as I didn't also use it for gaming. I did. Oops.
Also, is it a big purchase? If it's under a certain amount you might be able to just expense it outright instead of depreciating. That's a question for your accountant though.
Wait, SockGoblin, so you told your accountant you didn't game on it? That's hilarious. I bet they didn't ask for a screenshot of your Steam library.
Just don't put the desk on your nightstand and call it a day. You'll be fine. Probably.
Honestly, the bigger issue is if you ever sell your house. Then the home office deduction gets complicated. But for a desk, I'd say go for it. Keep the receipt.
Thanks all. I'll definitely keep the receipt and maybe take a photo of the setup just in case. And no gaming on it, I promise!