How to file taxes as an Airbnb host in Ohio

Operating an Airbnb in Ohio comes with specific tax obligations. As a host, it's crucial to understand and comply with state and local tax laws to avoid penalties and maximize your earnings. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly file taxes as an Airbnb host in Ohio.

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1. Understand the Taxes You Owe

State Sales Tax (Ohio Sales Tax):

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• Ohio imposes a state sales tax on short-term rental income.

• Airbnb typically collects and remits this tax on behalf of hosts, but verify this in your settings.

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County and Local Lodging Taxes:

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• Many counties and cities in Ohio, such as Columbus and Cleveland, have local lodging or transient occupancy taxes.

• Hosts are responsible for registering and remitting these taxes directly to local authorities if Airbnb does not handle them.

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Federal Income Tax:

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• Income earned from Airbnb must be reported on your IRS Form 1040.

• Use Schedule E (Form 1040) to report rental income and expenses if you rent out part or all of your property.

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2. Register for Necessary Tax Permits

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• Ohio Vendor's License: Hosts must obtain an Ohio Vendor's License to collect state sales tax. Apply here.

• Local Registration: Some cities require hosts to register with the local tax authority for lodging tax collection.

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3. Collect and Remit Taxes

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• Verify if Airbnb collects and remits Ohio state and local taxes on your behalf. If not, you are responsible for collecting:

  • Ohio State Sales Tax

  • Local Lodging Taxes

• File and remit taxes according to state and local deadlines to avoid penalties.

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4. Deduct Eligible Business Expenses

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Hosts can deduct certain expenses from their taxable income, including:

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• Mortgage Interest or Rent Payments (proportionate to the rented space)

• Utilities and Maintenance Costs

• Cleaning Services and Supplies

• Property Insurance and Host Protection Plans

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Properly tracking these expenses can significantly lower your taxable income.

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5. File Your Taxes

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• Federal Taxes: Report your Airbnb income on your federal tax return using Schedule E (Form 1040).

• State Taxes: File state sales tax returns through the Ohio Department of Taxation.

• Local Taxes: File lodging tax returns with your city or county tax office.

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Helpful Resources for Ohio Airbnb Hosts

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• Ohio Department of Taxation

• IRS Schedule E for Rental Income

• Airbnb Hosting Rules in Los Angeles

• Booking.com Rules for Vacation Rental Compliance

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How Lodge Compliance Can Help Ohio Hosts

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Lodge Compliance makes tax filing easier for Ohio Airbnb hosts:

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• Automated Tax Reminders: Stay on top of state and local tax deadlines.

• Expense Tracking Tools: Simplify tracking deductible expenses.

• Compliance Guidance: Understand and meet Ohio's tax requirements.

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Avoid penalties and maximize your profits. Request a Demo to simplify your tax process.

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Stay Compliant and Stress-Free

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Filing taxes as an Airbnb host in Ohio doesn't have to be complicated. By following these steps and using Lodge Compliance's tools, you can manage your tax obligations and focus on growing your rental business.