Airbnb Host Taxes in Kansas - 2025 Guide

Updated for 2025 (Filing 2024 Taxes)

Is Airbnb Host income taxable in Kansas?

Yes, income earned as an Airbnb host is absolutely taxable, both at the federal and Kansas state levels. The IRS considers Airbnb hosting a business activity, meaning you’ll need to report your earnings and expenses.

Federal Requirements: You’ll report your Airbnb income and expenses on Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business), which is filed with your Form 1040. This schedule allows you to deduct all ordinary and necessary business expenses, ultimately determining your net profit or loss.

Kansas Specific Rules: Kansas has a graduated income tax system. This means the tax rate you pay depends on your total taxable income. Your net profit from your Airbnb (after deducting expenses on Schedule C) will be added to your other income (wages, investments, etc.) to determine your Kansas taxable income. Kansas then applies its graduated tax brackets to calculate your state income tax liability. You'll file this information using Form K-40.

Top Tax Write-offs for Airbnb Hosts

As an Airbnb host, you can significantly reduce your tax burden by taking advantage of available deductions. Here are some key write-offs:

• Mortgage Interest & Property Taxes: If you own your property, you can deduct the portion of your mortgage interest and property taxes that relate to the time the property is used for Airbnb rental. You'll need to calculate this percentage based on the number of days rented versus total days of the year.
• Utilities: Expenses like electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable are deductible, again based on the percentage of time the property is rented.
• Cleaning & Maintenance: Costs associated with cleaning the property between guests, as well as repairs and maintenance (e.g., fixing a leaky faucet, painting) are fully deductible.
• Mileage & Vehicle Expenses: When you drive for Airbnb-related activities (e.g., delivering keys, shopping for supplies), you can deduct either the actual expenses (gas, oil, repairs, etc.) or the standard mileage rate. For 2024, the standard mileage rate is 67 cents per mile (verify the final official rate from the IRS at IRS.gov). Keep a detailed mileage log!
• Airbnb Fees: The fees Airbnb charges you are a deductible business expense.

The 15.3% Self-Employment Tax Surprise

Because you're considered self-employed as an Airbnb host, you're responsible for paying both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. This is known as self-employment tax.

You’ll calculate this on Schedule SE (Self-Employment Tax). The combined rate is 15.3% (12.4% for Social Security up to the annual wage base, and 2.9% for Medicare). You only pay self-employment tax on profits exceeding $400. The good news is you can deduct one-half of your self-employment tax from your adjusted gross income on Form 1040.

Closing Tip for Kansas Residents

Managing Airbnb taxes can be complex. I strongly recommend keeping meticulous records of all income and expenses throughout the year. Consider using accounting software designed for self-employed individuals. Don't hesitate to consult with a qualified tax professional (like myself!) to ensure you're maximizing your deductions and complying with all federal and Kansas tax laws. Proper planning can save you significant money and stress during tax season.