Calling all w2 professionals! What if you could pay ZERO in tax for 2024?

[Account Closed]

If you have ever used an AirBnB and are interested in investing in real estate, this post is for you!

For individuals navigating the demands of a w2 job and grappling with substantial tax obligations, exploring the potential of short-term rentals unveils a compelling avenue to mitigate tax burdens. A noteworthy tax loophole, particularly beneficial for those yet to attain Real Estate Professional Status, offers a strategic approach to potentially offsetting OR EVEN ELIMINATING the impact of high job-related taxes.

At its core, this tax loophole revolves around discerning between passive and non-passive activities within the realm of rentals. Those whose rental pursuits fall under the non-passive umbrella may find solace in this tax-saving provision. The federal tax code establishes stringent criteria, including guest stays limited to seven days on average and the provision of basic hotel-like services, to qualify for this advantageous tax treatment.

Understanding the mechanics of the short-term rental tax loophole is imperative. Section 469 of the federal tax code initially classified all rental properties as passive. However, an essential exception emerged in the 1990s, allowing specific rental income to be categorized as non-passive. To leverage this benefit, prospective property owners must engage in short-term rentals and provide substantial services to guests, such as daily cleaning, meal provisions, or transportation services.

Additionally, navigating a material participation test becomes crucial. This entails dedicating a significant amount of time and effort to the short-term rental business. Meeting the test criteria, which includes working over 500 hours in the business, overseeing all necessary tasks personally, or substantially participating alongside a partner, facilitates the strategic utilization of the short-term rental tax loophole. For individuals tethered to a W-2 job, this presents an opportunity to judiciously manage their tax liabilities while exploring supplemental income avenues.

If this sounds like something that fits your investing goals, please reach out. We would be more then happy to assist in answering any questions!

[Michael Plaks]

Quote from @Account Closed:

Quote from @Michael Plaks:

Unfortunately this well-intentioned post has multiple incorrect statements. 

Here is an introduction to the so-called STR loophole: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1122635-the-s...

 Hello Michael, please elaborate on what you mean by "multiple incorrect statements". I don't think its fair to say this without explaining what you think they are. Im always willing to learn and be wrong! 

I linked my own post which explains this very complicated area, and here it is again:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1122635-the-s...

This not about "fairness" and is not personal. This is about accuracy. Statements that need corrections in your post are:

1. You referred to the Real Estate Professional Status (REPS). While your statement was not technically incorrect, it could be misinterpreted as REPS being related to STRs. It is not. STRs do not count for REPS, and REPS does not unlock STRs. Two completely unrelated exceptions to the general rule.

2. Most importantly, providing substantial services is NOT a requirement for the STR loophole. In fact, providing substantial services changes STRs from a rental activity to a business and triggers self-employment taxes on the net profit. It's often best to avoid providing substantial services.

3. What is required is material participation, not substantial services. Your description of what is involved in meeting the material participation test is inaccurate. Refer to my linked post for details.

4. Probably the most critical piece missing is the fact that STRs can provide a tax benefit for one year only, their first year. After that, your taxes go up, not down. You will need to buy another STR to extract tax benefits for the following year.

Thank you for bringing attention to the potential tax benefits of STR investing.