Can you deduct HOA special assessments?
James Craig
Published Apr 05, 2026
Special assessments for improvements are not tax-deductible. Special assessments are typically charged by the HOA to cover unforeseen situations or emergencies. If the special assessment is used for repairs or maintenance, it is normally tax-deductible. But if it is used for improvements, it is non-deductible.
What is an HOA special assessment?
As you may have figured out by now, an HOA special assessment is an extra fee an association may charge homeowners in case reserve funds are insufficient. There are a few possible reasons why your HOA might impose a special assessment: The HOA board failed to properly calculate monthly expenses.
Can you claim a special assessment on taxes?
Yes, you can deduct the special assessment if it was for maintenance and repairs. According to the IRS: Local benefit taxes are deductible only if they are for maintenance, repair, or interest charges related to those benefits.
How long do special assessments last?
As already mentioned, the special assessment can be added to your property tax bills until your portion of the tax is paid. A schedule of maximum special tax payments over a period of 25 years is available to homeowners prior to the close of escrow.
How does a Hoa pay for a special assessment?
The HOA might pay for any costs that arise outside the budget by collecting a special assessment from each owner, or by withdrawing funds from the reserve account. Because costs are constantly on the rise due to inflation, most HOA’s annual budgets require annual increases.
What is a special assessment on a home?
What is a special assessment? It’s an added fee that can crop up for owners of a condo, co-op, or home belonging to a homeowner’s association (HOA).
Can a condo association Levy a special assessment?
In that event, the association normally is given the power to levy a “special” assessment. The board normally adopts special assessments unless the governing documents require a membership vote.
How are special assessments determined for community associations?
Special Assessments – Community Associations The amount of the annual assessment is determined by the association’s budget each year. The owners pay that assessment according to the documents of the community – either monthly, quarterly or annually.