New Initiative Targets Tax Compliance of Corporate Jet Flights
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is ramping up its enforcement efforts with a new initiative focused on ensuring that deep-pocketed businesses are complying with tax rules when it comes to company jet use. Dozens of corporations and large partnerships are set to undergo audits regarding the high-profile perk, as announced by the IRS.
Tax Deductions and Personal Use
While the tax code permits businesses to deduct expenses related to aircraft used in the normal course of operations, the IRS is wary of companies and C-suite executives using company jets for personal reasons while still claiming business deductions where inappropriate.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel emphasized the significance of these audits, noting the complexity of the issue and the need for expanded resources to prevent high-income groups from skirting their tax responsibilities.
Financial Ramifications
The potential financial implications are substantial, particularly when considering other tax benefits that companies receive for significant purchases such as airplanes. Werfel highlighted the significant deduction amounts involved in aircraft travel expenses, which can reach tens of millions of dollars in certain cases.
A recent Wall Street Journal report revealed that major publicly-traded companies spent $65 million in 2022 on corporate jet usage for personal reasons, marking a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.
Future Outlook
While the initial focus will be on corporations and businesses, Commissioner Werfel hinted at the possibility of extending these audits to individual tax returns in the future. As the IRS aims to ensure compliance and fairness in tax practices, these targeted efforts are expected to shed light on potentially problematic areas within the realm of company jet use.
Corporate Jet Tax Compliance Scrutinized
As companies enjoy the perks of owning a private aircraft, the IRS is paying close attention to ensure tax compliance. Deducting the costs of using and maintaining a company jet is allowed, but there are specific guidelines to follow. The expenses must be deemed “ordinary and necessary” for conducting business activities. However, personal travel on the corporate jet is considered income by the IRS and must be accounted for properly.
Potential Tax Noncompliance
Tax noncompliance in corporate jet use can manifest in two ways, according to experts. Businesses may be claiming excessive tax deductions by failing to exclude personal travel expenses from their calculations. Additionally, individuals benefitting from personal use of the business jet might not be reporting the imputed income on their tax returns.
IRS Crackdown and Funding Boost
The IRS’s recent announcement of auditing company jet use showcases the agency’s efforts in utilizing the substantial funding received under 2022’s Inflation Reduction Act. These audits are distinct from other ongoing examinations involving corporations and partnerships. Notably, the IRS has successfully collected over $500 million from high-net-worth households with significant tax debts.
Congressional Funding and Challenges
With an additional $80 billion allocated to the IRS over a decade as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, enhanced enforcement measures have been initiated. However, the rollout of this funding has faced hurdles, including a rollback of over $20 billion after negotiations with Congressional Republicans. The allocation of extra IRS funds remains a contentious issue on Capitol Hill as the agency continues its efforts to ensure tax compliance among businesses and affluent taxpayers.
