Can a taxpayer include the purchase of computer equipment for resale as a deductible business expense?

When considering whether the purchase of computer equipment for resale can be classified as a deductible business expense, it's important to understand how business expenses are defined and categorized. The correct perspective is that such purchases are indeed a part of the inventory when they are intended for resale.

If a taxpayer purchases computer equipment specifically with the intention of reselling it, this expense falls under inventory costs. These costs are not immediately deductible but rather are included in the cost of goods sold (COGS). This means that while the costs are not deductible upfront, they are accounted for when the items are sold, which allows a deduction at that time.

Therefore, the classification of computer equipment purchased for resale is crucial. They do not qualify as immediate business expenses because they are part of inventory rather than regular operating expenses. Thus, the assertion that resale items are not deductible highlights an important aspect of tax treatment for inventory versus other types of business expenses. The treatment of these purchases aligns with the IRS guidelines on inventory and capital expenses.