Question

Brittany started a law practice as a sole proprietor. She owned a computer, printer, desk, and file cabinet she purchased during law school (several years ago) that she is planning to use in her business. FMV at Time Purchase Converted to Asset Price Business Use Computer $ 5,500 $ 3,800 Printer 3,300 3,150 Desk 4,200 4,000 File cabinet 3,200 3,225 Using the above information, what is the depreciable basis that Brittany should use in her business for each asset?

Answer 1

Answer:

Computer; $ 3800

Printer; $3150

Desk; $4000

File Cabinet; $3200

Explanation:

First we need to determine how to determine the depreciable basis for the asset.

The basis of assets converted from personal use to business use in terms of depreciable amount is the lesser of (1) fair market value on date of conversion or (2) basis on the date of conversion (the cost price)

Now we apply this to the following assets

Computer: Depreciable base of $ 3800 ( FMV < Purchase price )

Printer: $3150 ( FMV < Purchase price )

Desk: $4000 ( FMV < Purchase price )

File Cabinet: $3200 ( FMV > Purchase price )