Short-Term Rental Host Tax Checklist
Good records decide how a short-term rental is reported. Use this page all year so your return is accurate and documented.
1. Keep These Records
- Booking and payout reports from each platform (Airbnb, VRBO, direct bookings)
- Number of nights booked and the length of each guest stay
- Days the property was used personally or by family
- Purchase closing statement, date placed in service, and improvements
- Receipts for cleaning, supplies, repairs, utilities, insurance, property tax, and fees
- Property manager statements and any 1099 forms you receive
- A time log of the work you personally do, written at the time you do it
2. Average Stay
If your average guest stay is short (7 days or less), the activity may be treated differently from a regular long-term rental. Your treatment can then depend on how much you take part in running it. Record the numbers below.
| Item | Number | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Total nights booked in the year | ||
| Number of guest stays (bookings) | ||
| Average nights per stay (nights ÷ stays) | Calculate |
3. Time Log (Write It Down When You Do It)
| Date | Task | Details (who, what, where) | Hours | Done by you? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rules about losses, your hours compared to others' hours (including a property manager or cleaner), and other limits can apply. Bring this log and your records and we will check what applies to you.
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General information only, not tax or legal advice. Tax rules change and depend on your facts. Check current IRS guidance or ask a qualified preparer before relying on this.