Saving on Home Office Furniture Through Tax Deductions: What You Need to Know

We Chat with the Team at Ukhuni. Setting up a home office can be one of the most exciting parts of working remotely—but there’s no denying that it comes with its own set of expenses. Thankfully, there are smart ways to ease the financial burden, particularly through home office tax deductions. The team at Ukhuni explores how individuals and businesses alike can make the most of this opportunity, transforming work-from-home spaces into ergonomic, professional environments—without overspending.

Is Home Office Furniture Tax Deductible?

It’s a common question, and the short answer is: yes, it can be.

SARS (South African Revenue Service) has put forward a set of guidelines that allow taxpayers to claim deductions for home office-related expenses—including office furniture—under specific conditions. While these guidelines vary depending on one’s employment status, they offer valuable financial relief for freelancers, sole proprietors, and qualifying employees.

Who Qualifies for a Home Office Deduction?

Broadly speaking, SARS recognises two groups of taxpayers eligible for home office deductions:

Freelancers and Sole Proprietors

This group qualifies automatically, without the need to meet the stricter conditions required of full-time employees. The home office must still be a dedicated, exclusive workspace used for business purposes.

2. Full-Time Employees

Full-time workers need to meet the following criteria to qualify:

• More than 50% of their income must be earned from commission or performance-based bonuses; or

• They must work from home for more than 50% of their total working hours;

• The home office must be a dedicated space used exclusively for work (e.g., not a dining table or shared family room);

• The space must be furnished with the necessary equipment;

• The employer must officially approve remote work in writing (usually via a letter from HR);

• The employee must have worked from home for at least six months during the tax year.

What Can Be Claimed?

Once eligibility is confirmed, a range of expenses may be deducted, provided they directly relate to the home office. These include:

• Office furniture (e.g., ergonomic chairs and desks) – claimed under wear-and-tear

• Rent or bond interest

• Repairs and maintenance of the office space

• Electricity specifically used for the home office

• Internet and telephone costs

• Office equipment like printers and computers

• Stationery and cleaning costs

• Rates and taxes proportional to the office area

Importantly, furniture claimed must be clearly designated for work use, and not part of regular household furnishings.

What If You Don’t Qualify?

For those who don’t meet SARS’ criteria, all hope is not lost. The team at Ukhuni suggests a few alternative options:

• Ask Your Employer – Some companies offer home office allowances or may be able to assist with purchases through existing HR or tax structures. It’s worth initiating the conversation.

• Borrow from the Office – In cases where budget constraints exist, borrowing unused desks or chairs from the company’s physical office may be a practical solution.

Regardless of qualification, investing in the right setup remains important. The right furniture enhances productivity, supports health and posture, and creates a clear distinction between personal and professional life—even at home.

Ready to Start Shopping?

Before making any purchases, the Ukhuni team recommends considering the following:

• Is the furniture ergonomic and supportive?

• Is it durable and hardwearing for daily use?

• Does it come with a warranty?

• Is the supplier reputable and experienced in office furniture solutions?

By combining smart financial planning with quality design, setting up a cost-effective, professional home office is completely within reach

To support those navigating the transition to remote or hybrid work, Ukhuni not only provides insights into tax-deductible home office solutions but also delivers comprehensive, solutions-based corporate office furniture and seating. Their offering extends beyond ergonomic desks and chairs to include partitioning systems, soft furnishings, storage, and activity-based workspace solutions, all crafted through a systemised manufacturing approach. Ukhuni also supplies brand and dealership joinery services, ensuring consistency across large-scale projects.

Behind every successful installation is a meticulous logistics team that oversees every detail—from order tracking and shipping schedules to on-site coordination and back-order updates. Ukhuni’s collaborative approach spans across departments—sales, design, manufacturing, and installation—to ensure that every project is completed on time and within budget.

With a proven, detail-oriented installation process and experienced project managers who engage directly with contractors and clients, Ukhuni ensures that no detail is overlooked. Their dedication to flawless execution and transparent, timely communication leaves clients with not only a well-furnished office but also a lasting sense of trust and satisfaction.

THE BOND Moulded foam tub chair with a sleek chromed 4-legged base, available with an optional headrest for added comfort. Frames can be powder-coated in ferrograin black for a bold, modern finish.

Contact:Ukhuni

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