Maximizing Tax Savings: 100% Bonus Depreciation Returns with New Expensing Rules

The revival of bonus depreciation is a pivotal aspect of recent U.S. tax legislation focused on invigorating economic expansion. Building on the foundation laid by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" permanently reinstates 100% bonus depreciation, significantly bolstering its role amidst the economic challenges posed by the pandemic. This article delves into the tax incentives, historical backdrop, eligible properties, and updated regulations of bonus depreciation, illuminating its impact on current economic strategies.

  • Historical Perspective: Economic Stimulation Origins - Introduced in 2002 via the Job Creation and Worker Assistance Act, bonus depreciation allowed businesses to substantially deduct costs for qualifying properties immediately. Originally set at 30%, this deduction rose to 50% and sometimes reached 100% during economic downturns.

    The TCJA revamped bonus depreciation by offering a 100% first-year deduction for qualifying property to encourage investment and growth but stipulated a phase-out starting in 2023 until its elimination by 2027.

  • Advantages of Bonus Depreciation - Bonus depreciation permits businesses to deduct asset costs fully in the year of acquisition, offering immediate tax relief and incentivizing investment. This tax benefit boosts cash flow by lowering taxable income, presenting a potent motivation for new asset purchases.
    However, strategic use of bonus depreciation is crucial, particularly regarding Section 199A deductions related to qualified business income (QBI), which might decrease due to reduced profits from substantial write-offs.

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  • Eligibility for Bonus Depreciation - Eligible properties often include tangible assets with a recovery time of 20 years or less, like computer software, water utility properties, and qualified improvements. The IRS sets recovery periods, such as 5 years for most business vehicles and 7 years for office equipment. Real property isn’t eligible due to longer recovery periods.

    The TCJA expanded eligibility to both new and used properties, enhancing appeal for second-hand equipment investments.

  • Challenge Resolution for Property Improvement - Qualified improvement properties faced legislative hurdles. Initially overlooked, these properties were intended to receive bonus depreciation under a 15-year MACRS period but were later rectified by the CARES Act.

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  • Revocation and AMT Considerations - Electing out of bonus depreciation demands IRS consent unless chosen on a timely filed return, allowing changes within six months through amended returns. Properties claiming bonus depreciation are exempt from alternative minimum tax (AMT) adjustments.

  • Special Considerations for Business Automobiles - Special depreciation rules and limits apply to "luxury autos." TCJA augments the depreciation limit by $8,000 when bonus depreciation is applicable, and related party rules and Section 179 usage further complicate matters. (Section 179 allows businesses another avenue to expeditiously write off business property purchases.)

  • Recent Legislative Updates - The OBBBA extends the 100% deduction for property used after January 19, 2025, solidifying bonus depreciation’s permanence. Properties placed in service between January 1 and January 19, 2025, receive a 40% deduction, providing businesses with strategic long-term planning opportunities.

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  • New Provisions for Qualified Production Property - The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" encourages U.S. manufacturing investments by allowing full immediate deduction of new factories and certain improvements.

    Qualified Production Property excludes parts used for offices, administrative tasks, and similar functions. Buildings that meet the criteria enhance the U.S. manufacturing landscape significantly.

The reinstatement of bonus depreciation is a keystone financial strategy fueling economic recovery, offering businesses prompt tax credits for strategic investments. Despite its complexity, especially concerning QBI deductions and AMT repercussions, bonus depreciation remains vital for long-term business development. By incorporating qualified production property deductions, both large and small U.S. manufacturing ventures get strong incentives.

For expert tax planning on leveraging Bonus Depreciation benefits, contact Tangie R Cooper CPA Inc., where our Houston-based team provides dedicated support and guidance.

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