[ikka]

Taking the home office deduction may entice the IRS only because some taxpayers claim it erroneously. We've discussed this issue before see story, but as a recap, to claim a home office deduction your home office must be used solely for work purposes. That means the room can't double as the kids' playroom.Also, you can't have an office anywhere else. So if you're a workaholic who likes to bring work home, you can't claim the home office deduction.

Not true. There was a case where a violinist was able to deduct part of her rent while living in a studio apartment.

[bvw]

That home office deduction has been an area of IRS changes every year -- I used to take it -- but now avoid it for all the hassle it involves, if not the risk. Damn the income tax code!

[Eric in the Ozarks]

I office out of my home but don't deduct. No audit. Its cheaper in the long run.