What is the tax treatment for interest expense?

@juston 

The tax treatment for interest expense varies depending on the purpose of the borrowed funds and the type of interest paid. In general, interest expense is deductible for tax purposes if it is incurred for business or investment activities. However, there may be limitations or restrictions on the amount of interest that can be deducted.

Here are some key points regarding the tax treatment of interest expense:

1. Business Interest Expense: Interest paid or accrued on loans used for business purposes is generally deductible. However, there is a limit on the deduction for business interest expense known as the "business interest expense limitation." This limitation was introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017 and applies to businesses with average annual gross receipts exceeding $26 million. The deduction for business interest expense is generally limited to 30% of the business's adjusted taxable income.
2. Investment Interest Expense: Interest on loans taken out for investment purposes, such as buying stocks, bonds, or other investment properties, may be deductible up to the amount of investment income earned in a given tax year. Investment interest expense is reported as an itemized deduction, subject to certain limitations.
3. Personal Interest Expense: Generally, interest paid on personal loans, credit cards, or other personal debts is not tax-deductible. There are exceptions, such as mortgage interest or student loan interest, which may be deductible under certain circumstances and subject to specific limitations.
4. Mortgage Interest Expense: Interest paid on mortgage loans for a qualified residence, such as a primary home or a second home, may be deductible. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 modified the rules for mortgage interest deductions, capping the deductible interest for new mortgages at $750,000 for married couples filing jointly ($375,000 for married couples filing separately). Additionally, the deduction for home equity debt interest was eliminated, except when the funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve the home.

It is important to consult a tax professional or refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines for specific details regarding the tax treatment of interest expense in your particular situation, as tax laws and regulations can change over time.