Itemized Deduction Sales Tax
October 4th, 2009Question: I bought my mom a car as a gift, although it was titled in her name. Can I deduct the sales tax on my taxes?
I made the check payable to the dealer for the amount of the car; however, the dealer listed her as the “buyer” on all the paperwork. She does not itemize, so the sales tax deduction is worthless to her. It’s a gift to her either way, but could I construe the gift as being the car (since I made the check payable to the dealer) versus the money?
Answer: Had you bought the car in your name and then gifted it, you would have a deduction. It sounds however that you gifted the deduction to her.
The result may be true, but it also seems unfair as a result of a technicality.
You may a case for claiming the deduction, but it isn’t a strong one. You could try, and if you get examined, just cave in. If you don’t get examined, then you win.
The above advice is solely because I think you have a case. Otherwise, I would not recommend it. Just so you understand I’m not trying to cross any lines, just resolving doubt in your favor.
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