You may want to reach out to the people recommended.https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/621/topics/50...California is a very tricky state where it requires LLC's to file a separate return even if the LLC is a disregarded entity for federal purposes.Below is also a publication that highlights all the differences between federal and California tax law.https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/2016/16_1001.pdfThere is also a pool of CPA's/Accountants who work with clients remotely.

@Ned Jackson Deadbeat is either a tenant or, if you disregard the verbal rental agreement, a licensee.

No need to form an LLC just to claim the deduction (if you are the only owner, the federal government would disregard-pretend it doesn’t exist- anyways).

If you're the only owner (member) of the LLC, it will normally be disregarded for tax purposes.

And just disregard all those messages?

I am not sure how anyone can disregard the value of housing so much so where it could be considered a candidate for legal shoplifting. 

Get an ein it takes ten minutesA single member LLC, pass through, disregarded entity is not required to have its own EIN / TIN but yes getting one is best practice  

LLC does not file a return since it is disregarded entity.  

-S Corps are less attractive now over disregarded entities/sole proprietorships and partnerships because of the 20% QBID. 

Is it because the entirety of the additional balance of the refinance is going towards a qualified primary residence (or secondary home) and it's secured by the previous residence (the one that was refinanced with a new loan), you disregard the nature of the duplex (mixed use, one part primary other rental) and solely focus on how the proceeds of the refinance amount above the initial acquisition cost are applied?