The RUT deduction makes it considerably cheaper to hire help with moving and cleaning. But exactly what is covered, how much can you deduct and who is eligible? Here we untangle the rules so you know what your move really costs.
What is the RUT deduction?
RUT stands for cleaning, maintenance and laundry and is a tax reduction for household services. You get back 50 percent of the labour cost, up to SEK 75,000 per person and year. Because the deduction is personal, a couple who own the home together can deduct up to SEK 150,000 per year.
What is covered in a move?
In a move, the labour cost for moving help, packing and unpacking, and move-out cleaning qualifies for RUT. Carrying help and assembly also count. However, materials, moving boxes, the moving van, fuel and storage are not covered – the deduction applies only to the work itself.
Who is eligible for the deduction?
You must be at least 18 years old, fully liable for tax in Sweden and have paid enough tax during the year to use the deduction. The service must be carried out in or close to your home, and it also applies to holiday homes and a parent's home in certain cases.
How the deduction is applied
With a serious moving company the RUT deduction is applied directly on the invoice – you pay only half the labour cost and the company claims the rest from the Tax Agency. So you do not need to be out of pocket or apply yourself. Check your preliminary RUT allowance via the Tax Agency's e-service if you are unsure how much you have left for the year.
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Get a free fixed price with the RUT deduction included.