Sir, – At first glance, Lisa Leahy's (August 13th) assessment of Revenue's distinction between short- and long-term lettings as "splitting hairs" seems reasonable. This distinction disqualifies short-term letters (ie Airbnb hosts) from tax benefits under the "rent a room scheme". However, there are good reasons for this distinction. At a time of acute shortages in the rental property sector, rooms and dwellings that could be added to the rental property supply are instead being offered on Airbnb, thus exacerbating shortages and increasing rent inflation.
This trend has been well documented in cities such as San Francisco and Berlin, with the latter consequently suffering an accommodation shortage for the first time since the fall of the Wall. Given the current accommodation crisis here, Dublin cannot afford to follow this pattern.
There are tangible benefits to Airbnb lettings, as described by Ms Leahy; but there can also be social costs, which is why it is appropriate for Revenue to encourage long-term letting of suitable properties for the public good. – Yours, etc,
STEPHEN WALL,
Dublin 2.
Sir, – Reading Lisa Leahy’s letter one might be forgiven for concluding that Airbnb income is tax free in the US, and that our heartless Revenue Commissioners are the only ones picking on those renting out rooms in this way.
The reality is not so simple. Yes, in the US you can rent for up to 14 nights tax free, but after that the IRS demands tax returns for this income.
If you engage in a commercial activity you can expect to pay tax on the income. – Yours, etc,
VINCENT MURPHY,
Cork.
Sir, – I suggest that Airbnb assures all Irish hosts and adds a quaint cultural dimension for tourists by localising its operating name in Ireland to Airbeanantí. – Yours, etc,
ULTAN Ó BROIN,
Dublin 8.