According to Wikipedia, cost segregation “is the process of identifying personal property assets that are grouped with real property assets, and separating out personal assets for tax reporting purposes. A cost segregation analysis identifies and reclassifies personal property assets to shorten the depreciation time for taxation purposes, which reduces current income tax obligations. Personal property assets include a building’s non-structural elements, exterior land improvements and indirect construction costs.
Eligibility for cost segregation includes buildings that have been purchased, constructed, expanded or remodeled since 1987. A cost segregation study is typically cost-effective for buildings purchased or remodeled at a cost greater than $500,000 and is most efficient for recently constructed or new buildings, but it can also uncover retroactive tax deductions for older buildings which can generate significant short benefits due to “catch-up” depreciation.
How it Works:
Capital Review Group experts will analyze architectural drawings, mechanical and electrical plans, and other plans to segregate the structural and general building electrical and mechanical components from those linked to personal property.
Tax Benefits of Cost Segregation:
In addition to providing tax relief, a cost segregation analysis can benefit businesses in a number of ways:
1. Maximizing tax savings by adjusting the timing of deductions. When an asset’s life is shortened, depreciation expense is accelerated and tax payments are decreased. This, in turn, releases cash for investment or operating needs.
2. Creating an audit trail. Improper documentation of cost and asset classifications can lead to an unfavorable audit adjustment. Properly documented cost segregation analysis helps resolve IRS inquiries at the earliest stages.
3. Playing Catch-Up: Retroactivity. Since 1996, taxpayers can capture immediate retroactive savings on property added since 1987. This opportunity to recapture unrecognized depreciation presents an opportunity to perform retroactive cost segregation analyses on older properties to increase cash flow in the current year.
4. Additional tax benefits. Cost segregation can also reveal opportunities to reduce real estate tax liabilities and identify certain sales and use tax savings opportunities.
For more information on Cost Segregation Analysis, contact Marky Moore today to open a discussion of how to save taxes through proven, tested methods that the IRS will accept when properly applied by the right experts at Capital Review Group. Simply call 1.877.666.5539 or visit https://capitalreviewgroup.com/.