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Sample Questions Posted Below
Taxation of Individuals and Business Entities, 11e (Spilker)
Chapter 6 Individual Deductions
1) The profit motive distinguishes “business” activities from “personal” activities.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
2) All business expense deductions are claimed as “below the line” deductions.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Most business expenses are claimed as for AGI deductions.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
3) All investment expenses are itemized deductions.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Rental/royalty deductions are “above the line” deductions.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
1
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.4) Rental or royalty expenses are deductible “for” AGI.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
5) To be deductible, business expenses must be directly related to a business activity.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
6) The phrase “ordinary and necessary” means that an expense must be appropriate and helpful
for generating a profit.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
7) All reasonable moving expenses are deductible by employees.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Moving expenses are generally not deductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
2
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.8) Self-employed taxpayers can deduct the cost of health insurance as a “for” AGI deduction as
long as they do not actually participate in their spouses’ employer-provided health plans.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: A self-employed individual cannot be eligible to participate in a plan.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
9) Self-employed taxpayers can choose between claiming a deduction or a credit for the
employer portion of self-employment taxes paid.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: An above-the-line deduction for the employer portion of the SE tax is available.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
10) An individual who forfeits a penalty for prematurely withdrawing a certificate of deposit
(CD) is allowed to net the penalty against the interest income from the CD.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: The early withdrawal penalty is treated as an above-the-line deduction.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
3
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.11) Excess business losses are carried back and then forward as net operating losses.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Excess business losses are carried forward as net operating loss carryforward.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
12) For married taxpayers filing separately, excess business losses are defined as aggregate
business deductions over the sum of aggregate business gross income or gain of the taxpayer
plus $255,000.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: The threshold amount for all taxpayers other than those married filing jointly is
$255,000.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
13) Qualified education expenses for purposes of the deduction of interest on educational loans
are expenses paid for the education of the taxpayer, the taxpayer’s spouse, or a taxpayer’s
dependent to attend a postsecondary institution of higher education.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
4
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.14) The medical expense deduction is designed to provide relief for doctors and medical
practitioners.
Answer: FALSE
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
15) Deductible medical expenses include payments to medical care providers such as doctors,
dentists, and nurses and medical care facilities such as hospitals.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
16) Taxpayers traveling for the primary purpose of receiving essential and deductible medical
care may deduct the cost of travel.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
5
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.17) The deduction for medical expenses is limited to the amount of unreimbursed qualifying
medical expenses paid during the year reduced by 2 percent of the taxpayer’s AGI.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: 10 percent of AGI is the floor limit.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
18) The itemized deduction for taxes includes all types of state, local, and foreign taxes.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: The deduction is limited to state, local, and foreign income (or sales taxes); state or
local property taxes; and state or local personal property taxes, based on value.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
19) Taxpayers may elect to deduct state and local sales taxes instead of deducting state and local
income taxes.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: Taxpayers may elect to deduct state and local sales taxes in lieu of deducting state
and local income taxes.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
6
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.20) Taxpayers are allowed to deduct mortgage interest on up to $1,000,000 of acquisition debt
for their qualified residence if the acquisition debt is incurred after December 15, 2017.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: The limit is $750,000 for acquisition debt incurred after December 15, 2017.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
21) The deduction for investment interest in excess of the net investment income carries forward
to the subsequent year.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
22) To qualify as a charitable deduction the donation must be made by cash or by check.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Donations of property also qualify.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
7
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.23) In general, taxpayers are allowed to deduct the fair market value of long-term capital gain
property on the date of the donation to a qualified charitable organization.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
24) The deduction to individual taxpayers for charitable contributions paid in cash to public
charities is limited to 10 percent of the taxpayer’s AGI.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: 60 percent of AGI is the ceiling for donations of cash to public charities.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
25) Unreimbursed employee business expenses and hobby expenses are not deductible.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
26) Bunching itemized deductions is one form of tax evasion.
Answer: FALSE
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
8
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.27) Taxpayers generally deduct the lesser of their standard deduction or their itemized
deductions.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Taxpayers generally deduct the greater of their standard deduction or their
itemized deductions.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
28) Taxpayers filing single and taxpayers filing married separate have the same basic standard
deduction amount.
Answer: TRUE
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
29) An individual who is eligible to be claimed as a dependent on another’s return and has
$1,000 of earned income may claim a standard deduction of $1,350.
Answer: TRUE
Explanation: The dependent may claim a standard deduction for the greater of (1) $1,100 or (2)
$350 plus her $1,000 earned income = $1,350.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
9
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.30) Generally, service businesses are considered qualified trade or businesses for purposes of the
deduction for qualified business income.
Answer: FALSE
Explanation: Service businesses are generally excluded from the definition of qualified trade or
businesses for purposes of the deduction.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
31) Congress allows self-employed taxpayers to deduct the cost of health insurance above the
line (for AGI) because:
A) employers are allowed to deduct Social Security (FICA) taxes as a business expense.
B) self-employed taxpayers need an alternate mechanism for reducing the cost of health care.
C) this deduction provides a measure of equity between employees and the self-employed.
D) health insurance premiums cannot be deducted otherwise.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: Employers are allowed to deduct the premium as a compensation expense and
employees are allowed to exclude from taxable income the value of the premiums paid on their
behalf.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
10
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.32) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) Congress allows self-employed taxpayers to deduct the employer portion of their self-
employment tax.
B) To deduct expenses associated with any profit-motivated activity, taxpayers must maintain a
high level of involvement or effort in the activity throughout the year.
C) Business activities never require a relatively high level of involvement or effort from the
taxpayer.
D) All business expenses are deducted for AGI.
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: A
Explanation: See discussion of the self-employment deduction in the text.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
33) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) Unreimbursed employee business expenses are not deductible.
B) Investment advisory expenses are not deductible.
C) Business deductions are one of the most common deductions for AGI, but they are not readily
visible on Schedule 1 of Form 1040.
D) The distinction between business and investment expenses is critical for determining whether
a deduction is claimed above the line (for AGI) or below the line (itemized).
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: E
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
11
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.34) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) Employee business expenses are deducted for AGI.
B) Investment expenses are typically deducted for AGI.
C) Tax preparation fees are deducted for AGI.
D) Rental and royalty expenses are deducted for AGI.
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: D
Explanation: Investment expenses are typically deducted from AGI.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
35) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) Individuals qualify for the moving expense deduction only if they change employers.
B) Individuals qualify for the moving expense deduction if their employer does not pay for the
moving expenses.
C) Moving expenses are deductible from AGI.
D) Moving expenses are generally not deductible.
Answer: D
Explanation: Moving expenses are not deductible except for members of the Armed Forces.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
12
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.36) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) The deduction for interest on educational loans is subject to a phase-out limitation.
B) The deduction for moving expenses is subject to a phase-out limitation.
C) Self-employed taxpayers are allowed to deduct health care premiums even if the taxpayer is
eligible to participate in an employer-provided health plan.
D) Excess business losses are deductible up to $100,000.
E) All of these choices are false.
Answer: A
Explanation: Self-employed taxpayers are not allowed to deduct health care premiums if they
are eligible to participate in an employer-provided health plan.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
37) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) For purposes of the deduction for educational interest, an educational loan must be used to
pay tuition to any type of school.
B) The maximum deduction for educational interest is $5,000 for married taxpayers filing
jointly.
C) Self-employed taxpayers are not allowed to deduct health care premiums if the taxpayer is
eligible to participate in their spouse’s employer-provided health plan.
D) Self-employment taxes paid by self-employed taxpayers are deductible as business expenses.
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: Simply being eligible to participate in a spouse’s employer-provided health plan
precludes the deduction for health care premiums for self-employed taxpayers.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
13
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.38) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) For purposes of the deduction for educational interest, expenses do not include expenses for
room, board, and travel.
B) For purposes of the deduction for educational interest, qualified education expenses are those
paid for the education of the taxpayer, the taxpayer’s spouse, or the taxpayer’s dependent.
C) The maximum deduction for interest expense on qualified education loans is $6,000.
D) A penalty paid for prematurely withdrawing a certificate of deposit or similar deposit is
deductible from AGI as an investment expense.
E) All of these choices are false.
Answer: B
Explanation: Penalties for early withdrawal are deductible for AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
39) This year, Jong paid $3,000 of interest on a qualified education loan. Jong files married filing
jointly and reports modified AGI of $152,000. What is Jong’s deduction for interest expense on
an educational loan?
A) $2,500.
B) $3,000.
C) $1,500.
D) $1,000.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: 2019 phase-out percentage = [$152,000 – $140,000] ÷ $30,000 = 40%;
maximum = $2,500 × (1 − 40%) = $1,500.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
14
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.40) Mason paid $4,100 of interest on a loan that paid tuition for him to attend a private university
this year. How much of this payment can Mason deduct as interest expense on an educational
loan if he files single and reports modified AGI of $90,000?
A) $4,100.
B) $4,000.
C) $2,667.
D) $2,000.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: E
Explanation: The deduction is eliminated for single taxpayers with modified AGI over $85,000
(2019).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
41) This year Riley files single and reports modified AGI of $76,000. Riley paid $1,200 of
interest on a qualified education loan. What amounts can Riley deduct for qualifying education
interest?
A) The deduction for qualifying education interest is $1,200.
B) The deduction for qualifying education interest is $1,000.
C) The deduction for qualifying education interest is $720.
D) The deduction for qualifying education interest is $200.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: Riley may deduct the amount paid ($1,200) up to $2,500, reduced by the phase-out
amount. The phase-out amount is the amount paid up to $2,500 ($1,200 for Riley) multiplied by
40 percent [(76,000 – 70,000) ÷ 15,000 = 40%]. Hence, Riley may deduct $720 [$1,200 –
($1,200 × 40%) = $720].
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
15
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.42) Max, a single taxpayer, has a $270,000 loss from his sole proprietorship. How much of this
loss is deductible after considering the excess business loss rules?
A) $270,000.
B) $255,000.
C) $15,000.
D) $0.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: B
Explanation: The nondeductible excess business loss is $15,000 (the taxpayer’s aggregate
business deductions ($270,000) over the sum of his business gross income, $0 and $255,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
43) Max, a single taxpayer, has a $270,000 loss from his sole proprietorship. How much of this
loss is not deductible after considering the excess business loss rules?
A) $270,000.
B) $255,000.
C) $15,000.
D) $0.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: The nondeductible excess business loss is $15,000 (the taxpayer’s aggregate
business deductions ($270,000) over the sum of his business gross income, $0 and $255,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
16
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.44) Han is a self-employed carpenter and his wife, Christine, works full time as a grade school
teacher. Han paid $525 for carpentry tools and supplies, and Christine paid $3,600 as her share
of health insurance premiums (not with pretax dollars) for Han and herself in a qualified plan
provided by the school district (not through an exchange). Which of the following is a true
statement?
A) The tools and supplies are deductible for AGI while the health insurance is an itemized
deduction.
B) Both expenditures are deductible for AGI.
C) The tools and supplies are an itemized deduction but the health insurance is deductible for
AGI.
D) Both expenditures are itemized deductions.
E) Neither of the expenditures is deductible.
Answer: A
Explanation: Business expenses for self-employed individuals are Schedule C deductions but
health insurance premiums are itemized deductions if the taxpayers are eligible to participate in
an employer-provided health plan.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
17
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.45) Bruce is employed as an executive and his wife, Marie, is a self-employed realtor. Besides
Bruce’s salary, Bruce and Marie own a warehouse that they rent to a local business for storage.
This year they paid $1,250 for electric service in the warehouse. Marie also paid self-
employment tax of $6,200 and Bruce had $7,000 of Social Security taxes withheld from his pay.
Marie paid a $45 fee to rent a safe-deposit box to store records associated with her realty
operation. Which of the following is a true statement?
A) One-half of the Social Security tax is deductible for AGI.
B) Only the electric bill is deductible for AGI.
C) The self-employment tax is not deductible.
D) The safe-deposit fee and the electric bill are deductible for AGI.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: D
Explanation: The safe-deposit fee is a business expense and the electric bill is a rental expense.
The employer portion of the self-employment taxes is deductible for AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
46) Brice is a single, self-employed electrician who earns $60,000 per year in self-employment
income. Brice paid the following expenses this year. Which of the expenses are deductible for
AGI?
1. The cost of health insurance (not purchased through an exchange)
2. The employer portion of self-employment tax paid
3. Penalty on early withdrawal of funds from a certificate of deposit
A) Numbers 1 and 2 only.
B) Numbers 1 and 3 only.
C) Numbers 2 and 3 only.
D) None of the choices is deductible for AGI.
E) All of these choices are deductible for AGI.
Answer: E
Explanation: All of these expenditures are deductible for AGI.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
18
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.47) Hector is a married, self-employed taxpayer, and this year he paid $3,000 for his health
insurance premiums (not through an exchange). Under which of the following alternative
conditions can Hector deduct the cost of the premiums for AGI?
A) Hector chose not to participate in the employer-sponsored plan of his spouse.
B) Hector’s spouse participates in an employer-sponsored plan but Hector is not eligible to
participate in this plan.
C) Neither Hector nor his spouse participates in an employer-sponsored plan although both are
eligible to participate in a plan.
D) Hector can deduct the health insurance premiums regardless of the insurance status of his
spouse.
E) None of the choices – health insurance premiums can only be deducted as an itemized
deduction.
Answer: B
Explanation: Health insurance premiums for the self-employed are deductible for AGI if the
taxpayer is not eligible to participate in an employer-provided plan.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
48) Lewis is an unmarried law student at State University, a qualified educational institution.
Last year Lewis borrowed $30,000 and used the proceeds to pay his university tuition. This year
Lewis paid $1,500 of interest on the loan. Which of the following is a true statement if Lewis
reports $40,000 of salary and no other items of income or expense?
A) Lewis can deduct all the interest on his student loan for AGI.
B) Lewis can deduct all the interest on his student loan as an itemized deduction.
C) Lewis can only deduct $1,000 of the interest on his student loan for AGI.
D) Lewis can only deduct $1,000 of the interest on his student loan as an itemized deduction.
E) All of these choices are false.
Answer: A
Explanation: Up to $2,500 of interest on student loans is deductible for AGI. The interest
deduction is phased out for single taxpayers with AGI exceeding $70,000.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
19
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.49) This fall Millie finally repaid her student loan. She originally borrowed the money to pay
tuition several years ago, when she attended State University (a qualified educational institution).
This year Millie paid a total of $2,400 of interest on the loan. If Millie files single and reports
$75,000 of income and no other items of income or expense, how much of the interest can she
deduct?
A) Millie can deduct $2,400 for AGI.
B) Millie can deduct $1,600 for AGI.
C) Millie can deduct $2,400 as an itemized deduction.
D) Millie can deduct $800 for AGI.
E) None—the tuition is not deductible.
Answer: B
Explanation: Millie may deduct the amount of interest paid ($2,400) reduced by the
phase-out amount ($2,400 × [($75,000 – $70,000) ÷ $15,000] = $800). Thus, Millie may
deduct $1,600 ($2,400 − $800 = $1,600).
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
20
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.50) Ned is a head of household with a dependent son, Todd, who is a full-time student. This year
Ned made the following expenditures related to Todd’s support:
Auto insurance premiums $1,700
Room and board at Todd’s school Health insurance premiums (not through an exchange) Travel (to and from school) 2,200
600
350
What amount can Ned include in his itemized deductions?
A) $1,700 included in Ned’s miscellaneous itemized deductions.
B) $2,050 included in Ned’s miscellaneous itemized deductions.
C) $950 included in Ned’s miscellaneous itemized deductions.
D) $600 included in Ned’s medical expenses.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: D
Explanation: The premiums paid for health and medical insurance for dependents are included
in the taxpayer’s medical expenses when determining itemized deductions.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
21
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.51) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) A taxpayer can deduct medical expenses incurred for members of his family who are
dependents.
B) A taxpayer can deduct medical expenses incurred for a qualified relative even if the relative
does not meet the gross income test.
C) A divorced taxpayer can deduct medical expenses incurred for a child even if the child is
claimed as a dependent by the former spouse.
D) Deductible medical expenses include long-term care services for disabled spouses and
dependents.
E) All of these choices are true.
Answer: E
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
52) Which of the following costs are deductible as an itemized medical expense?
A) The cost of prescription medicine and over-the-counter drugs.
B) Medical expenses incurred to prevent disease.
C) The cost of elective cosmetic surgery.
D) Medical expenses reimbursed by health insurance.
E) None of these costs are deductible.
Answer: B
Explanation: Medical expenses include any payments that health care does not reimburse for the
care, prevention, diagnosis, or cure of injury, disease, or bodily function.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
22
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.53) Which of the following costs is NOT deductible as an itemized medical expense?
A) The cost of eyeglasses.
B) Payments to a hospital.
C) Transportation for medical purposes.
D) The cost of insurance for long-term care services.
E) All of these choices are deductible as medical expenses.
Answer: E
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
54) Opal fell on the ice and injured her hip this winter. As a result she paid $3,000 for a visit to
the hospital emergency room and $750 for follow-up visits with her doctor. While she
recuperated, Opal paid $500 for prescription medicine and $600 to a therapist for rehabilitation.
Insurance reimbursed Opal $1,200 for these expenses. What is the amount of Opal’s qualifying
medical expense?
A) $3,000.
B) $3,750.
C) $3,650.
D) $4,850.
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: The qualifying expenses are calculated as follows:
Emergency room and doctor visits $ 3,750
Prescription medication 500
Physical therapy 600
Total qualifying medical expenses $ 4,850
Less insurance reimbursement (1,200)
Qualifying medical expenses from the accident $ 3,650
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
23
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.55) Which of the following taxes will not qualify as an itemized deduction?
A) Personal property taxes assessed on the value of specific property.
B) State, local, and foreign income taxes.
C) Real estate taxes on a residence.
D) Gasoline taxes on personal travel.
E) None of the choices qualify as itemized deductions.
Answer: D
Explanation: Gasoline taxes on personal travel are not deductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
56) This year Amanda paid $749 in federal gift taxes on a gratuitous transfer to her nephew.
Amanda lives in Texas and does not pay any state or local income taxes. Which of the following
is a true statement?
A) Amanda cannot deduct federal gift taxes.
B) Amanda can deduct federal gift taxes for AGI.
C) Amanda can deduct federal gift taxes paid as an itemized deduction.
D) Amanda must include federal gift taxes with other miscellaneous itemized deductions.
E) None of the choices are true.
Answer: A
Explanation: Federal gift and estate taxes are not deductible.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
24
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.57) This year Norma, a single taxpayer, paid $11,200 of real estate taxes on her personal
residence and $9,500 of state income taxes. Which of the following is true?
A) Norma can deduct $11,200 of real estate taxes as an itemized deduction.
B) Norma can deduct $9,500 of state income taxes as a for AGI deduction.
C) Norma can deduct $10,000 of taxes as an itemized deduction.
D) Even if Norma has no other itemized deductions, she should claim the standard deduction.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: The itemized deduction for taxes is limited to $10,000 for single taxpayers.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
58) Madeoff donated stock (capital gain property) to a public charity. He purchased the stock
three years ago for $100,000, and on the date of the gift, it had a fair market value of $200,000.
What is his maximum charitable contribution deduction for the year related to this stock if his
AGI is $500,000?
A) $100,000.
B) $200,000.
C) $150,000.
D) $250,000.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: The stock is appreciated capital gain property limited to 30 percent of AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
25
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.59) Carly donated inventory (ordinary income property) to a church. She purchased the inventory
last month for $100,000, and on the date of the gift, it had a fair market value of $92,000. What
is her maximum charitable contribution deduction for the year related to this inventory if her
AGI is $200,000?
A) $100,000.
B) $92,000.
C) $60,000.
D) $46,000 if the church sells the inventory.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: B
Explanation: The charitable deduction for ordinary income property is the lesser of FMV or
basis, limited to 50 percent of AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
60) Simone donated a landscape painting (tangible capital gain property) to a library, a public
charity. She purchased the painting five years ago for $50,000, and on the date of the gift, it had
a fair market value of $200,000. What is her maximum charitable contribution deduction for the
year if her AGI is $300,000?
A) $100,000.
B) $200,000.
C) $90,000 if the library uses the painting in its charitable purpose.
D) $150,000.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: The painting is appreciated capital gain property given to a public charity.
However, because it is also tangible personal property, the donation is FMV only if it is related
to the charitable use or purpose. If so, the deduction is limited to 30 percent of AGI. If not, the
deduction is basis limited to 50 percent of AGI.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
26
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.61) Larry recorded the following donations this year:
$500 cash to a family in need
$2,400 to a church
$500 cash to a political campaign
To the Salvation Army household items that originally cost $1,200 but are worth $300.
What is Larry’s maximum allowable charitable contribution if his AGI is $60,000?
A) $2,900.
B) $1,000.
C) $2,700.
D) $4,600.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: C
Explanation: $2,400 to church + $300 FMV of household items.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
27
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.62) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) The deduction of cash contributions to public charities is limited to 30 percent of AGI.
B) The deduction of capital gain property to private nonoperating foundations is limited to 50
percent of AGI.
C) The deduction of capital gain property to public charities is limited to 20 percent of AGI.
D) The deduction of cash contributions to private nonoperating foundations is limited to 30
percent of AGI.
E) None of the choices are true.
Answer: D
Explanation: The deduction of cash contributions to public charities is limited to 60 percent of
AGI, the deduction of capital gain property to private nonoperating foundations is limited to 20
percent of AGI, and the deduction of capital gain property to public charities is limited to 30
percent of AGI.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
63) When taxpayers donate cash and capital gain property to a public charity, the AGI
percentage limitation is applied in the following order:
A) a 30 percent of AGI limitation is applied to the aggregate donation.
B) a 60 percent of AGI limitation is applied to the cash donation and a 20 percent of AGI
limitation is applied to the fair market value of the capital gain donation.
C) a 30 percent of AGI limitation is applied to the cash donation and a 20 percent of AGI
limitation is applied to the fair market value of the capital gain donation.
D) a 60 percent of AGI limitation is applied to the cash donation and the fair market value of the
capital gain donation is subject to the lesser of a 30 percent of AGI limitation or a 50 percent of
AGI limitation after subtracting the cash contributions.
E) donations to public charities are not subject to AGI limitations.
Answer: D
Explanation: Capital gain property is subject to lower AGI limits, but the aggregate donation
cannot exceed 50 percent of AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
28
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.64) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) Taxpayers may only deduct interest on up to $1,500,000 of acquisition indebtedness.
B) Taxpayers may deduct interest on up to $1,000,000 of home-equity debt.
C) The deduction for investment interest expense is not subject to limitation.
D) A taxpayer who incurs acquisition indebtedness in 2018 may only deduct interest on up to
$750,000 of acquisition indebtedness.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: D
Explanation: The $750,000 limit applies to acquisition indebtedness incurred after December 15,
2017.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
65) Margaret Lindley paid $15,000 of interest on her $300,000 acquisition debt for her home
(fair market value of $500,000), $4,000 of interest on her $30,000 home-equity loan, $1,000 of
credit card interest, and $3,000 of margin interest for the purchase of stock. Assume that
Margaret Lindley has $10,000 of interest income this year and no investment expenses. How
much of the interest expense may she deduct this year?
A) $23,000.
B) $22,000.
C) $19,000.
D) $18,000.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: D
Explanation: The credit card interest is nondeductible personal interest and the home-equity
interest is not deductible. The remaining interest is deductible as qualified residence interest
($15,000) and investment interest ($3,000). The $3,000 investment interest is not restricted by
her net investment income ($10,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
29
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.66) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) A casualty loss on personal-use assets is generally not deductible.
B) A casualty loss on investment property is generally not deductible.
C) All casualty losses are deductible.
D) A casualty loss on a personal-use asset is deductible for AGI.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: A
Explanation: Casualty losses on personal-use assets are generally nondeductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
67) Glenn is an accountant who races stock cars as a hobby. This year Glenn was paid a salary of
$80,000 from his employer and won $2,000 in various races. What is the effect of the racing
activities on Glenn’s taxable income if Glenn has also incurred $4,200 of hobby expenses this
year? Assume that Glenn itemizes his deductions but has no other miscellaneous itemized
deductions.
A) increase in taxable income of $2,000.
B) increase in taxable income of $1,640.
C) no change in taxable income.
D) decrease in taxable income of $560.
E) decrease in taxable income of $2,200.
Answer: A
Explanation: Hobby expenses are not deductible, whereas hobby revenue is included in gross
income.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
30
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.68) Which of the following is a deductible miscellaneous itemized deduction?
A) gambling losses to the extent of gambling winnings.
B) fees for investment advice.
C) employee business expenses.
D) tax preparation fees.
E) All of these choices are correct.
Answer: A
Explanation: Employee business expenses, tax preparation fees, investment expenses, and hobby
expenses are not deductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
69) Frieda is 67 years old and deaf. If Frieda files as a head of household, what amount of
standard deduction can she claim in 2019?
A) $12,200.
B) $13,850.
C) $18,350.
D) $19,650.
E) $20,000.
Answer: E
Explanation: $20,000 = $18,350 + $1,650. The regular standard deduction is increased if the
taxpayer is age 65 or older or blind.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
31
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.70) Andres and Lakeisha are married and file jointly. Andres is 72 years old and in good health.
Lakeisha is 62 years old and blind. What amount of standard deduction can Andres and Lakeisha
claim in 2019?
A) $27,000.
B) $27,700.
C) $25,850.
D) $25,700.
E) None of the choices are correct.
Answer: A
Explanation: $27,000 = $24,400 + ($1,300 × 2). The married filing jointly standard deduction is
increased $1,300 for each blind taxpayer and/or each taxpayer at or over age 65 by year-end.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
71) Which of the following is a true statement?
A) The standard deduction is increased for taxpayers who are blind or deaf at year-end.
B) A married couple is only entitled to one addition to their standard deduction even if both
spouses are both over age 65.
C) Bunching itemized deductions is a legal method of tax avoidance.
D) The standard deduction is subject to a phase-out based on AGI.
E) All of these choices are true.
Answer: C
Explanation: Bunching is perfectly legal.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
32
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.72) Campbell, a single taxpayer, has $95,000 of profits from her general store, which she
operates as a sole proprietorship. She has no employees, $40,000 of qualified property, and
$50,000 of taxable income before the deduction for qualified business income. How much is
Campbell’s deduction for qualified business income?
A) $95,000.
B) $19,000.
C) $10,000.
D) $8,000.
E) $0.
Answer: C
Explanation: Her deduction for qualified business income is limited to 20 percent of her taxable
income before the deduction. She is not subject to the wage limit because her income falls below
the $160,700 threshold.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
73) Campbell, a single taxpayer, has $400,000 of profits from her general store, which she
operates as a sole proprietorship. She has no employees, $40,000 of qualified property, and
$500,000 of taxable income before the deduction for qualified business income. How much is
Campbell’s deduction for qualified business income?
A) $100,000.
B) $80,000.
C) $20,000.
D) $1,000.
E) $0.
Answer: D
Explanation: Her deduction for qualified business income is limited to 25 percent of her wages
($0) plus 2.5 percent of her qualified property (2.5% × $40,000 = $1,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
33
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.74) Campbell, a single taxpayer, has $400,000 of profits from her general store, which she
operates as a sole proprietorship. She has $100,000 of employee wages, $40,000 of qualified
property, and $500,000 of taxable income before the deduction for qualified business income.
How much is Campbell’s deduction for qualified business income?
A) $100,000.
B) $80,000.
C) $50,000.
D) $26,000.
E) $0.
Answer: C
Explanation: Her deduction for qualified business income is limited to 50 percent of her wages
($100,000 × 50% = $50,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand
AACSB: Reflective Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
34
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.75) Scott is a self-employed plumber and his wife, Emily, is a full-time employee for a
university. Emily has health insurance from a qualified plan provided by the university, but Scott
has chosen to purchase his own health insurance rather than participate in Emily’s plan. Besides
paying $5,400 for his health insurance premiums, Scott also pays the following expenses
associated with his plumbing business:
Plumbing tools and supplies $1,300
Rent on Scott’s plumbing shop 6,250
Transportation between Scott’s shop and various jobsites 500
Plumber’s uniform 50
Plumbing truck rental 7,200
Self-employment tax (half is employer share) 400
What is the amount of deductions for AGI that Scott can claim this year (2019)?
Answer: $15,500.
$15,500 = $1,300 + $6,250 + $500 + $50 + $7,200 + ($400 × 0.50). All of the expenses are
deductible for AGI except for Scott’s health insurance and 50 percent of the self-employment tax.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
35
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.76) Alexandra operates a garage as a sole proprietorship. Alexandra also owns a half interest in a
partnership that operates a gas station. This year Alexandra paid or reported the following
expenses related to her garage and other property. Determine Alexandra’s AGI for 2019.
Revenue from auto repairs $143,930
Salaries paid to mechanics 72,210
Supplies and tools 18,500
Revenues from gas station partnership (Alexandra’s share) 125,000
Expenses from gas station partnership (Alexandra’s share) 95,200
Self-employment tax (half is employer’s share) 12,702
Answer: $76,669
All of the expenses are deductible, but only 50 percent of the self-employment tax is deductible
($6,351).
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
77) Tita, a married taxpayer filing jointly, has a $700,000 business loss from her S corporation.
Assume the $700,000 loss satisfies the basis, at-risk, and passive loss rules. Assume also that
neither she nor her husband has any other business losses or business income. How much of the
$700,000 loss may she deduct this year?
Answer: $510,000.
She has a nondeductible excess business loss of $190,000, defined as her $700,000 over the sum
of her other business income, $0 and $510,000.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
36
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.78) Last year Henry borrowed $15,000 to help pay for his dependent daughter’s college tuition.
This year Henry paid $2,800 of interest on the loan. How much, if any, interest can Henry deduct
if he files single with AGI of $77,500?
Answer: $1,250.
The deduction for student loan interest is reduced for single taxpayers with AGI above $70,000
but below $85,000. The deduction is the amount paid up to $2,500, reduced by the phase-out
percentage. The percentage is equal to $77,500 less $70,000, divided by $15,000. In this
problem, there is a phase-out of 50 percent ($7,500 / $15,000), thereby reducing the amount paid
up to $2,500 (in this case, $2,500) to a deduction of $1,250 [$2,500 – ($2,500 × ($7,500 /
$15,000)) = $1,250].
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
37
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.79) Kaylee is a self-employed investment counselor who also owns a rental property. This year,
she collected $85,000 in fees and paid the following expenses:
Health insurance premiums (not through an exchange) $ 4,200
Life insurance premiums (whole life) 1,900
Books on investing 200
Repairs of the rental property 450
Advertising for investment clients 1,770
State income taxes 4,300
Self-employment tax (half is employer share) 11,732
Kaylee files single. Calculate her adjusted gross income.
Answer: $72,514 = $85,000 − $12,486.
The books on investing, advertising for investment clients, repairs for the rental property, 50
percent of the self-employment taxes, and health insurance premiums are deductible for AGI.
The whole life insurance premiums are not deductible, and the state income taxes are only
deductible from AGI.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
38
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.80) This year Tiffanie files as a single taxpayer. Tiffanie received $67,700 of salary and paid
$3,200 of qualified educational interest. This year Tiffanie paid moving expenses of $5,000 and
received $9,800 of alimony (from her ex-husband, whom she divorced in 2012). What is
Tiffanie’s AGI?
Answer: $76,250 ($67,700 + $9,800 − $1,250 = $76,250).
The alimony and salary are income, the moving expense is not deductible, and part of the
educational interest is deductible for AGI. Tiffanie’s maximum educational interest
deduction (amount paid up to $2,500) is limited to $1,250. The deduction for educational
interest ($2,500) is subject to phase-out because Tiffanie’s modified AGI exceeds
$70,000. The phase-out is calculated by subtracting $70,000 from Tiffanie’s modified
AGI ($67,700 + $9,800 = $77,500) and dividing by $15,000 as follows: $2,500 ×
[($77,500 − $70,000) ÷ $15,000] = $1,250. Thus, the amount deductible is $1,250
[$2,500 − $1,250 = $1,250].
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions for AGI
Learning Objective: 06-01 Identify the common deductions necessary for calculating adjusted
gross income (AGI).
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
39
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.81) Detmer is a successful doctor who earned $204,800 in fees this year, but he also competes in
weekend golf tournaments. Detmer reported the following expenses associated with competing
in almost a dozen tournaments:
Transportation to various tournaments $3,450
Lodging 1,890
Entry fees 920
Golf supplies (balls, tees, etc.) 75
This year Detmer won $5,200 from competing in various golf tournaments. Assuming that
Detmer itemizes his deductions and that he did not have any other miscellaneous itemized
deductions, what amount of the golfing expenses are deductible after considering all limitations
if the tournament golfing is treated as a hobby activity?
Answer: $0
Hobby expenses are not deductible.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
40
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.82) Jenna (age 50) files single and reports AGI of $40,000. This year she has incurred the
following medical expenses:
Dentist charges $ 90
Physicians’ fees 2,800
Cosmetic surgery 400
Cost of eyeglasses 250
Hospital charges 1,330
Prescription drugs 240
Over-the-counter drugs 75
Medical insurance premiums (not through an exchange) 1,200
Calculate the amount of medical expenses that will be included with Jenna’s other itemized
deductions.
Answer: $1,910.
All expenses are qualified medical expenses except for the cosmetic surgery and over-the-
counter drugs. Hence, the medical expense deduction is $5,910 less $4,000 (10 percent × 40,000)
= $1,910, and this amount is included with other itemized deductions.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
41
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.83) Chuck has AGI of $70,000 and has made the following payments:
State income tax withholding $1,900
State income tax estimated payments 850
Federal income tax withholding 7,100
Social Security tax withheld from wages 4,800
State excise tax on liquor 400
State inheritance tax 1,200
County real estate tax 790
School district tax on realty 510
Calculate the amount of taxes that Chuck can include with his itemized deductions.
Answer: $4,050 = $1,900 + $850 + $790 + $510.
The deductible taxes include county real estate and school district tax on real estate. State income
taxes paid and withheld are also deductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
84) This year, Benjamin Hassell paid $20,000 of interest on a mortgage on his home (Benjamin
borrowed $600,000 in 2015 to buy the residence and it is currently worth $1,000,000), $12,000
on a $150,000 home-equity loan on his home, and $10,000 of interest on a mortgage on his
vacation home (loan of $300,000; home purchased for $400,000 in 2016; home is not rented out
at any time). How much interest expense can Benjamin deduct as an itemized deduction?
Answer: $30,000.
Benjamin’s acquisition debt incurred before December 16, 2017, on his home and vacation home
does not exceed $1,000,000. Thus, he can deduct the $20,000 mortgage interest on his home
and the $10,000 of mortgage interest on his vacation home. The home-equity interest is not
deductible.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
42
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.85) This year Darcy made the following charitable contributions:
Donee Property Cost FMV
State University IBM stock $15,000 $10,500
Salvation Army Clothes 2,500 500
State Art Museum Painting 5,000 45,000
City Hospital Cash 8,000
Determine the maximum amount of charitable deduction for Darcy’s contribution of the painting
if her AGI is $80,000 this year. You may assume that both the stock and painting have been
owned for 10 years and that the painting was used by the State Art Museum in a manner
consistent with the museum’s charitable purpose.
43
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.Answer: The charitable deduction is $21,000 for the painting and $40,000 overall.
Description Amount Explanation
(1) AGI $ 80,000
(2) 60 percent contributions 8,000 Cash contribution
(3) 60 percent AGI contribution limit 48,000 (1) × 60%
(4) Allowable 60 percent deductions 8,000 Lesser of (2) or (3)
IBM stock and
clothes
(5) 50 percent contributions 11,000
(6) 50 percent AGI contribution limit (7) Allowable 50 percent deductions (8) 30 percent contributions (9) 30 percent AGI contribution limit Remaining 50 percent AGI contribution
limit 21,000 (6) − (7)
32,000 [(1) × 50%] − (4)
11,000 Least of (5) or (6)
45,000 Painting
24,000 (1) × 30%
(10)
(11) Allowable 30 percent deductions Deductible charitable contributions Least of (8), (9), or
21,000
(10)
$ 40,000 (4) + (7) + (11)
The stock and clothes are not subject to the 30 percent AGI limit because these are
ordinary income properties (basis exceeds its value so neither is capital gain property).
The painting is long-term tangible personal property apparently related to the purpose
of the charity. The deduction this year is $40,000, consisting of cash of $8,000, IBM
stock of $10,500, clothes of $500, and the painting of $21,000. The remaining value of
the painting, $24,000 ($45,000 − $21,000), is carried over to next year, subject to the
30 percent of AGI limit.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
44
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.86) This year Latrell made the following charitable contributions:
Donee Property Cost FMV
Jones Foundation IBM stock $15,000 $25,000
Salvation Army Clothes 2,500 500
City Hospital Cash 20,000
Determine the maximum amount of Latrell’s charitable deduction assuming the Jones Foundation
is a private nonoperating foundation and Latrell’s AGI is $100,000 this year. You may assume
that the stock and painting have been owned for 10 years.
45
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.Answer: The charitable deduction is $40,500 overall.
Description Amount Explanation
(1) AGI $ 100,000
(2) 60 percent contributions 20,000Cash contribution
(3) 60 percent AGI contribution limit 60,000(1) × 60%
(4) Allowable 60 percent deductions 20,000Lesser of (2) or (3)
(5) 50 percent contributions 5,00Clothes
(6) 50 percent AGI contribution limit 30,000[(1) × 50%] − (4)
(7) Allowable 50 percent deductions 5,00Least of (5) or (6)
(8) 20 percent contributions 25,000IBM stock
(9) 20 percent AGI contribution limit 20,000(1) × 20%
Remaining 50 percent AGI contribution
(10)
limit 29,500(6) – (7)
Least of (8), (9), or
(11) Allowable 30 percent deductions 20,000
(10)
Deductible charitable contributions $ 40,500(4) + (7) + (11)
The clothes are not subject to the 30 percent AGI limit because they are ordinary
income property (basis exceeds their value so they are not capital gain property). The
IBM stock is long-term capital gain property, but because the donee is a private
nonoperating foundation, the deduction for the value of the stock is subject to a 20
percent of AGI limitation. The deduction this year is $40,500, consisting of cash of
$20,000, clothes of $500, and IBM stock of $20,000. The remaining value of the stock,
$5,000 ($25,000 − $20,000), is carried over to next year, subject to the 20 percent of
AGI limit.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
46
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.87) Claire donated 200 publicly traded shares of stock (held for five years) to her father’s
nonoperating private foundation this year. The stock was worth $15,000 but Claire’s basis was
only $4,000. Determine the maximum amount of charitable deduction for the donation if Claire’s
AGI is $60,000 this year.
Answer: $12,000
The stock is long-term capital gain property donated to a nonoperating private foundation, so the
maximum donation is limited to 20 percent of AGI. The remaining deduction of $3,000 will
carry over to next year.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
88) Erika (age 62) was hospitalized with injuries from an auto accident this year. She incurred
the following expenses from the accident:
Hospital charges $3,280
Prescription medicine 510
Doctors’ fees 1,240
In addition, Erika’s auto was completely destroyed in the accident. She bought the car several
years ago for $18,000 and it was worth $4,700 at the time of the accident. What are Erika’s
itemized deductions this year if she was uninsured and her AGI is $40,000?
Answer: $1,030 of medical expenses.
The medical expenses of $5,030 are reduced by 10 percent of AGI ($4,000), and the casualty
loss is not deductible.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
47
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.89) Karin and Chad (ages 30 and 31, respectively) are married and together have $110,000 of
AGI. This year they have recorded the following expenses:
Home mortgage interest (acquisition debt of $300,000) $16,640
Real estate taxes 5,400
State income taxes paid 6,300
Medical expenses (unreimbursed) 1,800
Employee business expenses (unreimbursed) 450
Charitable contributions (cash to their church) 760
Karin and Chad will file married jointly. Calculate their taxable income.
Answer: $82,600 = $110,000 – ($16,640 mortgage interest + 10,000 taxes + $760 charitable
contributions).
Karin and Chad will choose to itemize their deductions. The medical expenses will not generate
any addition to the itemized deductions because they are subject to a 10 percent of AGI floor
limit. The taxes are limited to $10,000, and the unreimbursed business expenses are not
deductible.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
48
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.90) Misti purchased a residence this year. Misti, age 32, is a single parent and lives with her 1-
year-old daughter. This year, Misti received a salary of $160,000 and made the following
payments:
Home mortgage interest ($500,000 acquisition debt) $15,000
Real estate taxes 1,525
State income taxes paid 1,340
Income tax preparation fee 2,250
Charitable contributions (cash to their church) 120
Misti files as a head of household. Calculate her taxable income this year.
Answer: $141,650 = $160,000 − $18,350.
Misti’s itemized deductions total $17,985 ($15,000 + $1,525 + $1,340 + $120). Thus, Misti will
elect the standard deduction of $18,350. The income tax preparation fee is nondeductible.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
91) Jon and Holly are married and live in a retirement community. This year Jon celebrated his
65th birthday and Holly turned 68 years old. For their ages, both Jon and Holly are in good
health. What is the amount of their standard deduction this year?
Answer: $27,000.
The married filing jointly standard deduction is $24,400, increased by $2,600 because both
taxpayers are age 65 by year-end ($1,300 each).
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
49
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.92) This year Kelly bought a new auto for $20,000 plus $1,650 in state and local sales taxes.
Besides this sales tax, Kelly also paid $8,260 in state income taxes and had mortgage interest of
$5,500 ($400,000 acquisition indebtedness on her residence). If Kelly files single with AGI of
$56,000, what amount of itemized deductions will she be eligible to claim?
Answer: $13,760 = $8,260 + $5,500.
State income taxes, but not sales taxes, are included with other itemized deductions when
determining total itemized deductions. A taxpayer could elect to deduct state sales taxes instead
of state income taxes. Nonetheless, Kelly would not make this election because her state income
taxes ($8,260) exceed her state sales taxes.
Difficulty: 1 Easy
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.
Bloom’s: Remember; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
50
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.93) Toshiomi works as a sales representative and travels extensively for his employer’s business.
This year Toshiomi was paid $75,000 in salary and made the following expenditures:
State income taxes withheld $6,300
Employee business expenses (unreimbursed portion) 1,450
Charitable cash contributions 200
Investment counseling fees 780
Tax preparation fee 310
Toshiomi also made a number of trips to Las Vegas for gambling. This year Toshiomi won
$12,000 in a poker tournament, and this amount was almost enough to offset his other gambling
losses ($13,420). Calculate Toshiomi’s 2019 taxable income if he files single.
Answer: $68,500.
$68,500 = ($75,000 salary + $12,000 gambling winnings) – ($6,300 state taxes + $12,000
gambling losses + $200 charitable contributions). The employee expenses, investment fees, and
tax preparation fee are nondeductible. The gambling losses (up to gambling winnings) are a
miscellaneous itemized deduction, and the state income taxes and charitable contributions are
also itemized deductions.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: Deductions from AGI: Itemized Deductions; The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-02 Describe the different types of itemized deductions available to
individuals.; 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
94) Cesare is 16 years old and works throughout the year at a local coffee shop. This year, he
made $9,200 at the coffee shop and earned $2,000 in interest income from his savings account.
Assume that Cesare is claimed as a dependent on his parents’ tax return. What is Cesare’s
standard deduction for the year?
Answer: $9,550.
Since Cesare is claimed as a dependent on another’s tax return, his standard deduction ($12,200)
is limited to his earned income ($9,200) plus $350.
Difficulty: 3 Hard
Topic: The Standard Deduction
Learning Objective: 06-03 Determine the standard deduction available to individuals.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
51
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.95) Rachel is an accountant who practices as a sole proprietor. This year, Rachel had net
business income of $270,000 from her practice. Assume that Rachel pays $50,000 wages to her
employees, she has $20,000 of property (unadjusted basis of equipment she purchased last
year), she has no capital gains, and her taxable income before the deduction for qualified
business income is $225,000. Calculate Rachel’s deduction for qualified business income.
Answer: $0.
Since Rachel has taxable income of $225,000 (before the deduction for qualified business
income) and above $210,700, her accounting would be considered a specified service or trade
business. Thus, she would not be eligible for the deduction for qualified business income.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
96) Rachel is an accountant who practices as a sole proprietor. This year, Rachel had net
business income of $200,000 from her practice. Assume that Rachel pays $50,000 wages to her
employees, she has $20,000 of property (unadjusted basis of equipment she purchased last
year), she has no capital gains, and her taxable income before the deduction for qualified
business income is $140,000. Calculate Rachel’s deduction for qualified business income.
Answer: $28,000.
Since Rachel has taxable income of $140,000 (before the deduction for qualified business
income) and below $160,700, her accounting would not be considered a specified service or
trade business. Thus, she is eligible for the deduction for qualified business income. Because her
taxable income is below $160,700, the wage limitation would not apply. Thus, her deduction is
$28,000, the lesser of (a) $40,000 (20 percent of her qualified business income, 20% × $200,000)
or (b) $28,000 (20 percent of her taxable income before the deduction, 20% × $140,000).
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
52
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.97) Rachel is an engineer who practices as a sole proprietor. This year, Rachel had net business
income of $400,000 from her business. Assume that Rachel pays $150,000 wages to her
employees, she has $20,000 of property (unadjusted basis of equipment she purchased last
year), she has no capital gains, and her taxable income before the deduction for qualified
business income is $380,000. Calculate Rachel’s deduction for qualified business income.
Answer: $75,000.
Engineering is a qualified trade or business. So, Rachel is eligible for the deduction for qualified
business income. Rachel is limited by the wage-based limitation because her taxable income is
above $160,700. Her deduction of 20 percent of her qualified business income ($400,000 × 20%
= $80,000) is limited to the greater of (a) 50 percent of her wages paid ($150,000 × 50% =
$75,000) or (b) 25 percent of her allocable wages ($150,000 × 25% = $37,500) plus 2.5 percent
of the unadjusted basis of qualified property ($20,000 × 2.5% = $500). Thus, the wage limit
reduces her potential deduction for qualified business income to $75,000. Rachel is not limited
by the taxable income limitation because 20 percent of her qualified business income ($400,000
× 20% = $80,000, limited to $75,000 by the wage limit) is less than 20 percent of her taxable
income before the deduction ($380,000 × 20% = $76,000). Thus, she may deduct $75,000 as a
deduction for qualified business income.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
53
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.98) Rachel is an engineer who practices as a sole proprietor. This year, Rachel had net business
income of $500,000 from her business. Assume that Rachel pays $20,000 wages to her
employees, she has $500,000 of property (unadjusted basis of equipment she purchased last
year), she has no capital gains, and her taxable income before the deduction for qualified
business income is $380,000. Calculate Rachel’s deduction for qualified business income.
Answer: $17,500.
Engineering is a qualified trade or business. So, Rachel is eligible for the deduction for qualified
business income. Rachel is limited by the wage-based limitation because her taxable income is
above $160,700. Her deduction of 20 percent of her qualified business income ($500,000 × 20%
= $100,000) is limited to the greater of (a) 50 percent of her wages paid ($20,000 × 50% =
$10,000) or (b) 25 percent of her allocable wages ($20,000 × 25% = $5,000) plus 2.5 percent of
the unadjusted basis of qualified property ($500,000 × 2.5% = $12,500). Thus, the wage limit
reduces her potential deduction for qualified business income to $17,500. Rachel is not limited
by the taxable income limitation because 20 percent of her qualified business income ($500,000
× 20% = $100,000, limited to $17,500 by the wage limit) is less than 20 percent of her taxable
income before the deduction ($380,000 × 20% = $76,000). Thus, she may deduct $17,500 as a
deduction for qualified business income.
Difficulty: 2 Medium
Topic: Deduction for qualified business income
Learning Objective: 06-04 Calculate the deduction for qualified business income.
Bloom’s: Understand; Analyze
AACSB: Reflective Thinking; Analytical Thinking
AICPA: BB Critical Thinking
54
Copyright 2020 © McGraw-Hill Education. All rights reserved. No reproduction or distribution without the prior
written consent of McGraw-Hill Education.
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