Question

Assume year 1 is 2019 and by the beginning of year 4, the Sanchezes have paid down the principal amount of the loan to $500,000. In year 4, they borrow an additional $100,000 through a loan secured by the home in order to finish their basement. The new loan carries a 7 percent interest rate and is termed a "home equity loan" by the lender. What amount of interest can the Sanchezes deduct on the $100,000 loan?

Answer 1

Answer: $7,000

Explanation:

Interest deduction is allowed by the IRS if the loan was taken to improve the home. However, for married couples, only loans below the $750,000 limit can have their interest deducted.

The Sanchezes have paid off $500,000 of the principal of their previous loan so we will assume that was enough to get this new loan under the $750,000 limit.

Allowable interest deduction will therefore be:

= 100,000 * 7%

= $7,000