N
The Global Insight

Can you deduct moving expenses for a new job?

Author

Sarah Garza

Updated on March 25, 2026

If you move because of your job, you may be able to deduct the cost of the move on your tax return. You may be able to deduct your costs if you move to start a new job or to work at the same job in a new location.

Can you deduct moving expenses for a new job 2021?

Why are Moving Expenses No Longer Deductible? Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) passed in 2017 by President Trump, most people can no longer deduct moving expenses on their federal taxes.

What relocation expenses are tax deductible?

You can generally deduct your expenses of moving yourself, your family, and your belongings.

  • Professional moving company services.
  • Do-it-yourself moving trucks or pods.
  • Gas and oil or the standard moving mileage rate, if you travel by car.
  • Packing supplies (blankets, tape, boxes)
  • Move insurance.

What is considered moving expenses for tax purposes?

If you’re moving to a location within the US, qualifying expenses include costs of moving household goods and personal property, as well as gas, tolls, and parking if traveling by personal car. The cost of lodging during travel to the new home is also included, but meals and food are not.

Why are moving expenses no longer deductible?

Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) passed in 2017, most people can no longer deduct moving expenses on their federal taxes. In addition, if you are moving for an employer and your company has given you a moving allowance, that’s now treated and will be reflected as taxable income on your W-2.

Are there any tax deductions for moving for a new job?

Tax Deductible Job Relocation Moving Expenses. Of that number, roughly 20% (nearly 6 million people) moved for employment reasons. The U.S. is a mobile society, and a move related to new employment is not uncommon. In fact, the tax code gives a tax benefit for moving expenses if certain conditions are met.

Do you pay taxes on moving expenses from one state to another?

Consideration 2: Moving expenses. If your employer is moving you from state to state and paying for your moving expenses, some of your reimbursed moving expenses could be tax-free, but some might appear on your Form W-2 as part of your taxable income.

What kind of expenses can you claim for moving expenses?

Not All Expenses Qualify. Qualifying expenses include costs for packing and shipping your household goods and personal property, and costs for travel and lodging. Meals aren’t deductible as a moving expense.

How can I deduct the cost of moving my car?

If you use your own car to drive yourself, members of your household, or your personal effects to your new home, you can either deduct actual expenses or a standard mileage rate of 18 cents per mile. If you qualify, you’ll use Form 3903 to calculate your moving expense deduction.