TLDR: Depreciation of professional assets used at home is reserved for self-employed individuals engaged in regular, profit-driven activities. The assets must be directly related to the business and subject to wear and tear. Assets valued at ≤ €500 (excl. VAT) can be fully deducted in the year of purchase, while higher-value assets must be recorded in the fixed assets register and depreciated over their normal useful life.
Who Can Depreciate Assets Used at Home
Depreciation of professional assets used at home is available only to self-employed individuals conducting regular, profit-driven activities. The assets must be directly linked to the business and subject to depreciation. Real estate and assets unrelated to professional activities cannot be depreciated.
Depreciable Assets and Deduction Methods
Professional assets used at home can be depreciated over their normal useful life, determined by industry standards. Deductions are made through annual depreciation allowances, calculated based on the purchase price (excl. VAT) and the asset’s useful life.
Assets Valued at ≤ €500 (excl. VAT)
Assets with a unit value of €500 or less (excl. VAT) can be fully deducted in the year of purchase, with no need for depreciation.
Assets Valued at > €500 (excl. VAT)
For higher-value assets, registration in the fixed assets register is mandatory, including:
- Purchase date
- Purchase price (excl. VAT)
- Normal useful life
- Annual depreciation allowances
Non-Deductible Expenses
Some expenses, even if business-related, are not deductible, including:
- Subscriptions to general newspapers or magazines, even if used for research.
- Non-specialized clothing, unless required for the profession.
- Personal expenses with no direct business link, even if partially work-related.