Can I get a tax write-off for paying my brother's back taxes on his house?

Answer by  turkishtowel (455)

No you cannot benefit from a tax standpoint by giving what is essentially a gift to your sibling. He is not a charity, so all you get is gratitude.

Answer by  DiegosMom (66)

You would only be able to write off these taxes if the property was in your name but seeing as you said my brothers taxes I assume it is in his name. Paying off taxes for a house in his name is just like giving him a personal loan and giving out loans is not a tax write off.

Answer by  sonicfoundation (2597)

You cannot claim the tax write off yourself for paying the back taxes on your brother's house. Only the primary owner can claim the tax deduction for housing taxes. Essentially, he can claim the deduction, but you cannot. Also, it is likely that he might be liable to be taxes on your gift to him.