Renting to Family and Friends: Handle with Care

February 17, 2026

Tax Tip:


Ordinarily, you can deduct the expenses of owning and operating a rental property. You may even be able to claim a loss if those expenses exceed your rental income (subject to certain limitations). 



However, suppose you rent a property to a family member or friend for less than fair market rent. In that case, the IRS will consider the property a personal residence rather than a rental one. As a result, you’ll still have to report the rental income on your tax return, but you’ll lose many of the deductions associated with rental properties. On the bright side, depending on the circumstances, you may still be able to deduct some or all of your mortgage interest and property taxes.

This material is generic in nature. Before relying on the material in any important matter, users should note date of publication and carefully evaluate its accuracy, currency, completeness, and relevance for their purposes, and should obtain any appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.

Share Post:

By Meyers Brothers Kalicka July 1, 2026
Mid-year is an ideal time to review your tax situation, reduce year-end surprises, and take practical steps that could benefit individuals and small business owners.
A Bed for Every Child
By Meyers Brothers Kalicka June 23, 2026
For the fourth year, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) partnered with A Bed for Every Child, based out of Lynn, MA. This year was special; People’s Bank (PB) joined the initiative and co-hosted the event with MBK.
By Meyers Brothers Kalicka June 16, 2026
Not every transaction between a disqualified person and a nonprofit is necessarily prohibited under excess benefit transaction rules.
Show More