Can I write off property taxes?

Property taxes are deductible on your federal income tax return, but only if they are imposed on you and if they are for the benefit of the general public. They must also be based on the assessed value of the real property and charged uniformly against all property under the jurisdiction of the taxing authority. However, there are limitations. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 capped the total state and local tax (SALT) deduction, which includes property tax, at $10,000 ($5,000 for married filing separately). This means that if your total state and local taxes, including property tax, exceed this amount, you will not be able to deduct the full amount. Also, you must itemize deductions to claim property taxes on your tax return. If you take the standard deduction, you cannot deduct property taxes.