Bad Debt Deduction Not Allowed Until Business Fails

If you lend money to a failing business and the business eventually fails, can you take a bad debt deduction?  And if so, when?  The U.S. Tax Court addressed this in Cooper v. Commissioner, 143 T.C. 10, which provides an opportunity to consider the question. Facts & Procedural History The Coopers started Pixel in 1983.  Pixel…

The Hobby Loss Rules: Planning for Unprofitable Businesses

American culture still has a hint of the protestant work ethic. There are people in the United States who still work hard and are willing to take risks to make things happen. The country benefits if they are successful–particularly if it ends up in a viable commercial venture. Not all ventures end up being successful.…

The Hobby-Loss Grouping Rules

Irs “its All Or Nothing” Stance Often Helps Taxpayers

The IRS is not a government agency. It does not have to earn a profit. It does not even have to be concerned about keeping basic books and records. Unlike the standard that it imposes on even the smallest of business taxpayers, the IRS cannot produce anything close to a simple profit and loss statement…