Home computer help, datorhjälp in Swedish, is when a technician helps you with your computer, phone, tablet, printer, TV or home network, either at your home or remotely. For private individuals the work done in your home is RUT-eligible, so you pay roughly half the labour cost.
What it covers
Computer and software
- Troubleshooting when the computer is slow, freezes or will not start
- Virus removal and a security review
- Reinstalling Windows or macOS
- Installing and updating programs
- Clearing out unnecessary programs and files
Hardware
- Upgrading with an SSD or more memory
- Replacing a laptop battery, keyboard or screen
- Setting up a new computer and transferring files
- Connecting printers, scanners and external monitors
Network and home
- Installing and configuring a router
- WiFi coverage throughout the home, mesh systems and repeaters
- Connecting smart-home devices (earns no RUT deduction, see below)
- Setting up a TV, streaming services and sound systems
Phone and tablet
- Settings, backup, and transferring photos and contacts
- Basic troubleshooting
- Help with BankID, e-identification and apps
If you have recently moved to Sweden, that last point matters more than it sounds. BankID is the electronic ID used for banking, healthcare, tax filing and most public services, and getting it working on a new phone is one of the most common reasons people book help.
Patient, plain-language guidance
Many companies offer help pitched at your level, meaning someone explains at a calm pace rather than just fixing it and leaving. That is particularly valuable if you are not comfortable with technology, and it is RUT-eligible in exactly the same way as any other labour.
Home visit or remote support?
| Remote support | Home visit | |
|---|---|---|
| Software problems | Yes | Yes |
| Virus and cleanup | Yes | Yes |
| Computer will not start | No | Yes |
| WiFi and network | Partly | Yes |
| Hardware and installation | No | Yes |
| Price | Lower, no travel fee | Higher |
| Waiting time | Often same day | A few days |
Remote support means the technician connects to your screen through a secure program. It is enough for most software problems and is both cheaper and quicker.
A home visit is needed when the computer will not start, when it involves hardware, or when the problem is in the network and someone needs to see the physical layout of your home.
If you are unsure, start with remote support. If it cannot be solved that way you book a home visit, and you have not paid a travel fee for nothing.
Is remote support safe?
Yes, if you do it the right way. With legitimate remote support:
- You start the connection, after you contacted the company yourself
- You can see everything happening on screen the whole time
- You can stop it whenever you want
- The program is closed when the session ends
Warning about scams
This is worth saying plainly: never let in anyone who calls you out of the blue claiming your computer is infected, that your account is about to be closed, or that they are calling from a well-known technology company or from your bank.
Legitimate companies do not cold-call private individuals like that. Do not call a number that appears in a warning box on your screen either. And never give BankID codes to anyone, whatever they tell you. A real support company will never ask you to identify yourself with BankID in order to "verify" something.
If you are unsure: hang up, and call a company you chose yourself.
How to prepare for the visit
- Have passwords ready for the computer, the WiFi and the accounts involved
- Make sure the computer is charged and accessible
- Write down exactly what happens and when, ideally with a photo of any error message
- Have the router accessible if the job concerns the network
- Clear some space so the technician can get to the equipment
A clear description shortens the visit more than anything else. "The computer is slow" takes longer to diagnose than "it got slow after an update last week, and it takes two minutes to start."
RUT deduction for computer help
IT services in the home are RUT-eligible for private individuals: 50 percent off the labour cost, up to 75,000 SEK per person per year (Skatteverket).
It covers installation, repair and maintenance of computers, tablets and networks, plus advice given in connection with that work, carried out in or close to your home.
It does not cover:
- Remote help or advice at a distance. Only hours worked in your home count.
- Smart-home devices, alarms, surveillance cameras, robot vacuums, robot mowers and remote-controlled heat pumps
- Programming or customising equipment or software
- Building a website, or IT services bought for a company
The deduction also requires the company to hold approved F-tax (F-skatt), and that you pay electronically: paying cash voids it. The company applies the deduction directly on the invoice, so you never claim it back yourself. See computer help cost and RUT.
Common questions
What is included in home computer help?
Troubleshooting, virus removal, installing programs and equipment, network and WiFi, backup, setting up a new computer and transferring files, plus plain-language guidance.
Home visit or remote support?
Remote support for software problems, cheaper and faster. A home visit for hardware, network, or when the computer will not start.
Is remote support safe?
Yes, if you start the connection yourself and can see what is being done. Never let in anyone who calls you out of the blue.
How quickly can I get help?
Often within a few days, and some companies offer same-day help for common problems.
How do I prepare for the visit?
Have passwords ready, charge the computer, and write down exactly what happens and when.
Does home computer help qualify for RUT?
Yes, 50 percent off the labour cost (Skatteverket). Websites and company IT do not qualify.
Related guides: computer help cost, slow computer and virus help and home WiFi and network help. Back to Web & IT.