Moving Expenses: What You Can Write Off on Your Taxes

Moving is expensive. Between hiring movers, renting trucks, and paying for storage, costs can quickly climb into the thousands. It’s no surprise many people look for ways to recover some of that money at tax time.

The problem is, most people are working off outdated information.

Before you assume you can write off your moving costs, here’s what the IRS actually allows in 2026, who still qualifies, and which expenses are completely off the table.

Quick Answer: Can You Deduct Moving Expenses?

Most people cannot deduct moving expenses on their taxes.

The IRS currently only allows this deduction for active-duty military members who are moving due to a permanent change of station. For everyone else, moving costs are considered personal expenses and are not tax-deductible.

Why Moving Expense Deductions Were Eliminated

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) changed the rules starting in 2018. It suspended moving expense deductions for most taxpayers through at least 2025, and that restriction is still in place heading into 2026 unless new legislation changes it.

This means:

• Job-related moves are no longer deductible for most people
• Employer reimbursements are usually considered taxable income
• Only specific military moves still qualify

If you moved for a new job, even across the country, you likely won’t be able to write off those costs.

Who Still Qualifies for Moving Expense Deductions?

There is one major exception.

You may qualify if you are:

• An active-duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Moving due to a permanent change of station (PCS)

This includes moves:

• From home to your first post
• Between duty stations
• From your last duty station to your home

If this applies to you, you may still be eligible to deduct certain moving-related costs.

IRS Requirements for Qualified Moves

If you fall into the eligible category, the IRS still applies strict rules.

Work-Related Move

Your move must be directly tied to military orders or reassignment.

Timing

The move should align closely with your official relocation timeline.

Documentation

You’ll need to keep records showing:

• Orders for relocation
• Receipts for qualified expenses
• Travel and moving details

What Moving Expenses Are Deductible?

If you qualify, here’s what you can typically write off:

Transportation of Household Goods

• Packing and crating
• Shipping and hauling
• Moving company services
• Trailer or truck rental
• Short-term storage (usually up to 30 days)

Travel to Your New Home

• Lodging during the move
• Transportation costs, such as airfare or driving

Meals are not deductible.

Mileage or Vehicle Costs

You can choose between:

• Actual gas and oil expenses
• IRS standard mileage rate

Other Necessary Moving Costs

Expenses must be:

• Directly related to your move
• Reasonable in cost
• Based on the most direct travel route

What Moving Expenses Are NOT Deductible?

This is where a lot of people get confused. Even if something feels like part of your move, that doesn’t mean it qualifies.

Here’s what you cannot write off:

If it’s tied to buying, selling, or upgrading a home, it’s not deductible.

Are Employer-Paid Moving Expenses Taxable?

In most cases, yes.

If your employer covers your moving costs, that amount is typically considered taxable income. This is another change that came with the TCJA.

The only major exception applies to qualifying military moves.

Moving to Dallas? Here’s What to Know About Costs

Even if you can’t deduct moving expenses, you can still control how much you spend.

In the Dallas area, moving costs can vary widely depending on:

• Distance of the move
• Size of your home
• Packing services needed
• Timing and demand

Local moves are usually priced hourly, while long-distance moves are based on weight and distance. Choosing an experienced moving company can help you avoid hidden fees and unnecessary add-ons.

Tips to Reduce Moving Costs (Since You Can’t Deduct Them)

If tax write-offs aren’t an option, cutting costs becomes even more important.

Here’s how to stay on budget:

• Declutter before you move to reduce volume
• Pack some items yourself if possible
• Move during off-peak times
• Compare multiple quotes
• Work with a reputable, transparent moving company

A cheaper quote isn’t always better. Hidden fees and poor service can cost you more in the long run.

Common Questions About Moving Expense Tax Deductions

Can I deduct moving expenses for a new job?

No. Unless you are an active-duty military member, moving expenses for a new job are not tax-deductible.

Are moving expenses tax-deductible for remote workers?

No. Working remotely does not qualify you for moving expense deductions.

Can I deduct moving expenses if I’m self-employed?

Not under current tax laws, unless you meet the military exception.

Can employers reimburse moving expenses tax-free?

In most cases, no. Employer-paid moving expenses are generally considered taxable income.

What This Means for Your Move

A lot of outdated advice still circulates online about moving expense deductions. The truth is, most people won’t qualify under current tax laws.

That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high costs. It just means you need to be smarter about how you plan your move and who you hire.

Get a Moving Quote Before You Overspend

Moving is already expensive. The last thing you want is to overpay due to poor planning or unreliable movers.

Around the Clock Moving and Storage has over 25 years of experience helping homeowners and businesses move throughout the Dallas metro area. Whether you’re relocating locally or long-distance, their team handles everything from packing to transportation with efficiency and care.

If you want a clear, upfront estimate without surprises, it starts with a conversation.

Call us or request a free moving quote today.