Tax deductibility from US

Our Experts Answer:

Because the property is deriving income in NZ, you will still be required to file a tax return in NZ even if the result is a loss from the rental property. The costs on the property are deductible if they are revenue account maintenance costs rather than capital expenditure on the property. Residential property rental is an exempt activity for GST so there is no ability to register and claim GST input costs. The GST inclusive cost is the expense that is deducted for income tax purposes. If losses are claimed they will accumulate and be available to offset any profits in future from the NZ derived income. You should also take tax advice in the US to determine what implications exist in the US, which is likely to look to tax your worldwide income if you are a US citizen or green card holder.