Moving is expensive—and so are taxes. Wouldn’t it be great if you could lighten the load of one with the other?
Here’s the good news: in certain situations, you can deduct moving expenses on your tax return. But before you start saving receipts, it’s important to understand who actually qualifies.
Thanks to a recent change in tax law, the moving expense deduction is no longer available to most taxpayers. Today, it’s limited to a very specific group—active duty military members moving due to a military order.
Let’s break down when you can deduct moving expenses, what qualifies, and how to claim the deduction correctly.
Are Moving Expenses Tax Deductible?
For most people, the answer is no.
Before 2018, many taxpayers could deduct moving expenses related to a job change. But the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changed that. As of tax year 2018, the moving expense deduction has been suspended for everyone—except active duty military.
While this law is set to expire in 2026, the government may decide to extend or reinstate it. However, under the current tax law, only active duty military members who are moving due to a military order can deduct qualifying moving expenses on their federal tax return.
So, unless you’re in the military, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to write off your moving costs. But if you are active duty, keep reading—there’s still some relief available to you.
Military Exceptions: What Qualifies?
While most taxpayers can’t deduct moving expenses anymore, active duty military members still qualify—if the move meets specific criteria.
To claim a moving expense deduction, the move must be:
- A permanent change of station (PCS)
- Due to a military order.
This includes moves between duty stations, from your last duty station to home upon retirement or discharge, or moves to your first post of active duty.
If you’re a military member relocating as part of your service, you’re part of a small group still eligible to deduct military moving expenses on your tax return. Just make sure the move is required by official orders—personal moves or voluntary relocations don’t count.
What Moving Expenses Are Tax Deductible for the Military?
While a military move won’t be entirely free, some of your expenses may qualify for a tax break. Here’s a closer look at what you can—and can’t—deduct.
Can be deducted:
- The cost of transporting household goods from your old home to your new one.
- Packing and temporary storage expenses (for up to 30 consecutive days after your items are moved out).
- Travel expenses for one trip for you and your household members—this includes things like gas or airfare.
Cannot be deducted:
- Meals during the move (they’re specifically excluded).
- Costs related to buying or selling a home, including closing costs, real estate fees, or home improvements.
- Any expenses that are reimbursed by the military—you can only deduct out-of-pocket costs.
How to Claim the Moving Expense Deduction
If you qualify for a moving expense deduction, claiming it on your tax return is fairly straightforward—but accuracy matters.
Start by filling out IRS Form 3903, which is specifically designed to calculate and report your eligible moving expenses. This form helps you determine which expenses can be deducted and how much you can claim.
Once completed, attach Form 3903 to your federal tax return (Form 1040). The total from Form 3903 will go on the “Adjustments to Income” section of your return, which reduces your taxable income.
To make the process smoother, keep detailed records and receipts for all your moving-related expenses. This includes documentation for travel, transportation, and storage costs. If any portion of your move was reimbursed by the military, make sure that’s clearly noted, as those amounts cannot be deducted.
Keeping everything organized will not only help you file correctly but can also serve as proof if the IRS requests additional documentation.
Everyone Deserves a Stress-Free Move
Even if you qualify for a moving expense deduction, there’s no guarantee your move will be easy. Tax savings help, but they don’t lift boxes.
At Cento Family Moving & Storage, we believe every family deserves a smooth, professional moving experience—whether you’re relocating under military orders or making a fresh start somewhere new. We offer honest pricing, dependable service, and the kind of personal care that sets us apart from other moving companies.
Let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on settling in. Contact us today for a free moving quote and discover how stress-free your next move can be.
