Question

Suzanne owns interests in a bagel shop, a lawn and garden store, and a convenience store. Several full-time employees work at each of the enterprises. As of the end of November of the current year, Suzanne has worked 150 hours in the bagel shop, 250 hours at the lawn and garden store, and 70 hours at the convenience store. In reviewing her financial records, you learn that she has no passive investments that are generating income and that she expects these three ventures collectively to produce a loss.
Required:
What recommendation would you offer Suzanne as she plans her activities for the remainder of the year?

Answer 1

Answer:

In order for Suzanne to be considered an active participant in her stores, she must work at least 31 hours more. That way, her total working hours will be above 500, and she can deduct any losses from her adjusted gross income.

If she doesn't work at least 31 hours more, these activities will be considered passive activities and can only offset passive income.

Explanation: