Moving can take a toll—not just physically, but financially, too. And if you’re like most people planning a move, especially in Fort Myers or nearby Florida towns, you’re probably wondering: Can I get any relief on my taxes for these moving costs?

Here’s the simple answer:

For most people, moving expenses are no longer tax deductible. But if you’re an active duty military member and you’re moving due to official orders, there might be some good news for you.

The Background: What Changed with Tax Law?

Before 2018, the IRS allowed certain taxpayers to deduct moving expenses if the move was related to a job change and met time and distance requirements. But when the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was passed in 2017, that deduction was suspended for most people beginning in 2018.

Today, only active duty military personnel moving under a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) are eligible to deduct certain moving costs on their federal tax return. This suspension is currently in effect until 2026, but it could be extended or revised.

Who Qualifies for the Deduction?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be an active duty member of the Armed Forces
• Be relocating due to a military order
• Be moving under a Permanent Change of Station

These criteria apply to moves between duty stations, from your final duty station to your home after discharge, or your first post of active duty.

Important: Voluntary moves or personal relocations, even if you’re in the military, do not qualify.

What Moving Expenses Can Be Deducted?

If you meet the criteria above, here are the types of expenses you can deduct:

Deductible Costs:

• The cost of moving your household goods and personal effects
• Packing and temporary storage expenses (up to 30 days)
• Travel costs for you and your household members (gas, tolls, airfare, lodging)

Non-Deductible Costs:

• Meals during the move
• Real estate fees, closing costs, or home improvements
• Any moving expenses that have been reimbursed by the military

How to Claim Your Moving Deduction

You need to fill out IRS Form 3903 and attach it to your federal tax return (Form 1040). Form 3903 helps you calculate your total deductible expenses.

Make sure you:

• Keep all your receipts and documentation
• Note reimbursed expenses separately—you can only deduct what you paid out of pocket
• Attach Form 3903 correctly to avoid errors or rejections

Having a well-organized moving file with receipts and mileage logs can help you stay compliant and ready in case of an IRS review.

Not in the Military? Here’s What You Can Do

Unfortunately, if you’re not on active duty, you won’t be able to claim moving expenses on your federal taxes—for now. But that doesn’t mean you’re entirely out of options:

• Check with your employer: Some companies reimburse relocation costs. Ask about any moving assistance programs.
• Local or state programs: Rare, but some regions offer tax relief or incentives for relocating residents.
• Track your spending: Even if it’s not deductible now, future legislation may change things again.

Moving in Florida? We’re Here to Help

At The Moving Mavericks, we know moving is about more than boxes and trucks—it’s about new beginnings. We’re a local team based in Fort Myers, proudly serving:

• Bonita Springs
• Naples
• Cape Coral
• Estero
• Lehigh Acres
• Venice and surrounding areas

We handle residential and commercial moves, including long-distance, apartment, piano, and senior relocation services.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, our crew is ready to lift the burden. We offer honest pricing, real support, and dependable service—just what you need when life is in motion.

Contact The Moving Mavericks

📞 Call us today at (239) 722-0000

🌐 Visit www.themovingmavericks.com to get a free quote or learn more about our services.
Let us take the stress out of your next move.

Let us take the stress out of your next move.

The Moving Mavericks — Your Local Moving Experts in Southwest Florida.