Can I Deduct a Home Security System?

Protecting your home with a security system is a smart decision, but the IRS generally does not allow a personal deduction for the cost of a home security system on your primary residence. If you have a qualifying home office and the system protects the entire home, you may be able to deduct a proportional share of the monitoring fees as a home office expense. Rental property owners can deduct security systems as a maintenance or operating expense on their rental property. Business owners who install a security system at their place of business can fully deduct that cost as a business expense. For a standard personal residence, the security system cost does not generate a federal tax deduction.