Computer help at home: slow computer, viruses and new computer with RUT

What can computer help involve?

Computer help at home means a technician comes to your home and fixes problems with your computer or helps you get started with a new one. Common jobs are:

• Troubleshooting a slow computer and removing unnecessary programs.
• Removing malware and installing antivirus protection.
• Installing, updating or reinstalling the operating system.
• Setting up a new computer and transferring files, photos and settings.
• Arranging backups.
• Replacing components such as the hard drive or memory.

RUT deduction for computer help

Repair, installation and maintenance of computers in the home are included in the RUT deduction for IT services. This also applies to installing, updating and removing operating systems and software. The deduction is 50 % of the labour cost, and ROT and RUT combined may total no more than SEK 75,000 per person per year.

The work must be carried out in or in close proximity to the home. If you hand the computer in to a workshop, or get help by phone or remote connection, Skatteverket says that part does not qualify. Programming and customising software are not covered either.

Back up first

Before anyone makes major changes to the computer, your important files should be backed up. This is especially true when reinstalling the operating system or replacing the hard drive. Ask the technician how they ensure nothing is lost, and ask for help setting up an automatic backup that keeps working after the visit.

A good routine is to have at least one copy on an external drive and one in a cloud service, so you are protected against both technical faults and theft or fire.

Privacy and peace of mind

A technician working on your computer can see your files, emails and passwords. Choose a company you trust and preferably be present during the work. Change passwords afterwards if you have shared them.

Be wary of unexpected calls or pop-up windows claiming that your computer is infected and that you need to give someone remote access. Genuine computer help starts with you making contact yourself.

What affects the price?

Computer help is often charged by the hour or as fixed packages for common jobs such as setting up a new computer. Ask for a clear price and ask about:

• Hourly rate, minimum charge and call-out charge.
• Whether new components or software are included.
• What happens if the fault takes more time than estimated.
• Whether backup is included in the work.

Also bear in mind that an older computer is not always worth repairing. A reputable technician will make an assessment and tell you if the cost of the repair is approaching what a new computer would cost.

What the quote should include

• What is to be done and the approximate time required.
• Hourly rate or fixed price.
• Materials, components and licences separately.
• The estimated RUT deduction on the labour cost.
• How your data is protected during the work.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes are buying a new computer when the old one only needed an upgrade or a clean-up, not backing up before the work and giving remote access to unknown people. Another is counting on a RUT deduction for work done in a workshop or remotely.

Getting help via Fixtorget

Describe which computer you have, what the problem is and what you want help with. The companies that buy the job can ask questions in the chat and send a cost specification. Once the job is completed you can leave a review, and reviews can only be left by customers who have been in contact via Fixtorget.

Frequently asked questions