Costs of moving deductable?

Question

I am considering moving back to the States (I currently live in Germany) in order to start my own business. Are the costs of moving deductable?

Answer 1

If you are moving due to a job relocation, then yes. However, if you are just wanting to come back to the states, then no.

"If you moved to a new home because of your job or business, you may be able to deduct the expenses of your move. To be deductible, the moving expenses must have been paid or incurred in connection with starting work at a new job location. Moving expenses are discussed in detail in Publication 521, Moving Expenses. However, there are various rules that apply specifically to moves to or from a foreign country. Those rules are mentioned here."

Answer 2

I would recommend you read up at www.irs.gov - - start with Publication #17.
In some cases, in particular for work reasons, moving expenses could be deductible and you would need to look specifically at the rules and your specific circumstances.

Answer 3

Read through http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/international/article/0,,id=97167,00.html and the associated links to other IRS publications associated with moving expenses. Your expenses might be deductible depending on your circumstances.