Can You Claim a Storage Unit on Your Taxes?
Jan 08, 2026
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You've got boxes stacked to the ceiling, furniture gathering dust, and maybe even an old motorcycle yearning for open roads. But that storage unit is costing you money, and you're wondering: Can I write off the storage unit on my taxes? The answer, like most things tax-related, is that it depends.
While not always a straightforward "yes," there are specific situations where storage unit tax deductions are possible. Let's explore when to claim those storage fees and how to do it right under the new tax rules for 2026.
If you're using a storage unit for business, you're in luck! Even with the 2026 tax reforms, the IRS generally allows you to deduct storage unit expenses if they are "ordinary and necessary" for your business operations. This can include storing:
● Inventory: Excess stock, seasonal items, or raw materials.
● Equipment: Tools, machinery, or office furniture.
● Documents: Important records and files.
● Company vehicles: Cars, trucks, or specialized equipment.
If the storage unit is essential to keep your business running smoothly, it's likely a tax-deductible expense.
Important Note: If you're using the storage unit for business and personal use, you must allocate the expenses accordingly. Keep detailed records of how much space is used for each purpose to calculate the deductible portion accurately.
You might have heard that storage units are tax-deductible when moving. This was true until 2017, when the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act suspended the moving expense deduction. As of 2026, under the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," this suspension has been made permanent. This means for most taxpayers, moving-related storage costs are no longer deductible.
However, there are two important exceptions:
● Military Moves: According to the IRS, active-duty military personnel relocating due to military orders can still deduct moving expenses, including storage unit costs.
● Intelligence Community Moves: New for 2026, employees of the U.S. Intelligence Community moving for work-related reasons may also now qualify for this deduction.
So, if you're in the military or the intelligence community and facing a move, keep those receipts! You'll need them to claim your storage unit tax deduction.
Beyond the common scenarios, there are a few lesser-known situations where storage unit expenses might be deductible, though the rules have changed slightly for 2026:
● Storing Donated Goods: The associated storage costs may be deductible if you're storing items intended for donation to a qualified charity. However, be aware that starting in 2026, itemized charitable deductions are subject to a new "floor." You generally can only deduct contributions that exceed 0.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
● Disaster Relief: If your home is damaged due to a natural disaster and you need to store your belongings while repairs are underway, you can deduct storage unit expenses. For 2026, you can now claim this deduction for State-declared disasters, not just federally declared ones.
These situations are more nuanced, so consulting a tax professional for guidance is recommended.
To successfully claim storage unit tax deductions, accurate record-keeping is essential. Make sure to keep:
● Receipts: Keep all receipts for storage unit rental payments.
● Inventory: Maintain a detailed inventory of stored items, especially for business use.
● Relevant Documentation: If claiming a deduction related to a move or disaster relief, keep supporting documents like military orders, employment records, or insurance claims.
Even with the best intentions, it's easy to make mistakes when claiming tax deductions. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when deducting storage unit expenses:
● Overestimating Business Use: Accurately allocate expenses if your storage unit is used for personal and business purposes.
● Ignoring the Standard Deduction: With the Standard Deduction rising to approximately $16,100 for singles and $32,200 for couples in 2026, ensure that itemizing your storage expenses (along with other deductions) is actually worth it compared to taking the standard amount.
● Assuming Deductibility: Not all storage expenses are deductible. Consult a tax professional if you need clarification.
Whether you need storage units for business or personal use, or for a military or government move, StoreEase offers a variety of options to meet your needs. Our secure, climate-controlled facilities ensure your belongings are safe and sound.
Find a StoreEase location near you and contact us today to find the perfect storage solution and learn how StoreEase can simplify your life!
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Please consult a qualified tax advisor for personalized guidance on your situation.
Generally, no. The deduction for personal moving expenses remains suspended for most taxpayers. However, if you are an active-duty member of the Armed Forces or a member of the U.S. Intelligence Community moving due to a change in station/orders, you may still qualify.
Yes, provided the storage is "ordinary and necessary" for your business. This applies if you use the unit to store inventory, equipment, business records, or company vehicles. You cannot deduct the portion of the unit used for personal items.
● Business Owners: Claim this as a business expense on Schedule C (Form 1040), typically under "Rent or lease" (Part II, line 20b) or "Other expenses."
● Military/Intel: Use Form 3903 (Moving Expenses) to calculate and claim your deduction.
● Disaster Relief: Use Form 4684 (Casualties and Thefts) if claiming storage as part of a loss related to a state or federally declared disaster.
Likely, yes. With the 2026 Standard Deduction rising to roughly $16,100 for singles and $32,200 for couples, fewer people will need to itemize. Unless your total itemized deductions (mortgage interest, charity, taxes, storage, etc.) exceed these amounts, it is usually better to take the Standard Deduction.