Wondering what you can deduct as business equipment? Purchasing equipment is simply part of running a business. Electing to immediately deduct the entire business purchase instead of capitalizing it and depreciating the asset over its useful life, which is usually several years, could provide substantial tax relief for business owners, especially those who are purchasing start-up equipment.

Looking to purchase a new business vehicle? Choose carefully. The limit on the amount that can be deducted for depreciation varies by type of vehicle. Under §280F, passenger automobiles, trucks and vans are subject to special annual depreciation limits, known as luxury auto limits. These limits begin to apply for cars costing at least $19,000.

The Internal Revenue Service today warned taxpayers against telephone scammers targeting students and parents during the back-to-school season and demanding payments for non-existent taxes, such as the “Federal Student Tax.”

People should be on the lookout for IRS impersonators calling students and demanding that they wire money immediately to pay a fake “federal student tax.” If the person does not comply, the scammer becomes aggressive and threatens to report the student to the police to be arrested. As schools around the nation prepare to re-open, it is important for taxpayers to be particularly aware of this scheme going after students and parents.