Publication 554
taxmap/pubs/p554-008.htm#en_us_publink100044085A reverse mortgage is a loan where the lender pays you (in a
lump sum, a monthly advance, a line of credit, or a combination of all three)
while you continue to live in your home. With a reverse mortgage, you retain
title to your home. Depending on the plan, your reverse mortgage becomes due
with interest when you move, sell your home, reach the end of a pre-selected
loan period, or die. Because reverse mortgages are considered loan advances and
not income, the amount you receive is not taxable. Any interest (including
original interest discount) accrued on a reverse mortgage is not deductible
until you actually pay it, which is usually when you pay off the loan in full.
Your deduction may be limited because a reverse mortgage loan generally is
subject to the limit on home equity debt discussed in Publication 936, Home
Mortgage Interest Deduction.