Is Computer Software Eligible for Section 179?

Denise Wilkinson

If you are a small business owner or self-employed individual, you may have heard of Section 179 and wondered if computer software is eligible for this tax deduction. Section 179 is a tax code that allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment or software purchased or financed during the tax year. Let’s dive into whether computer software falls under this category.

What is Section 179?

Section 179 is a tax code that was created to encourage small businesses to invest in themselves by allowing them to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and software in the year it was purchased. This means that instead of depreciating the cost over several years, businesses can write off the entire expense in one year.

Is Computer Software Eligible for Section 179?

The short answer is yes, computer software is eligible for Section 179 as long as it meets certain requirements. According to the IRS, qualifying software must meet all of the following criteria:

  • The software must be off-the-shelf, meaning it is available for purchase by the general public and not custom-made for a specific business.
  • The software must be used in your trade or business.
  • The software must have a determinable useful life, meaning it must have an expected lifespan of more than one year.

If your computer software meets these requirements, you can deduct up to $1,050,000 for qualified purchases made during the tax year.

What Types of Computer Software Qualify?

Most types of computer software can qualify for Section 179 as long as they meet the criteria mentioned above. This includes essential business tools like accounting and bookkeeping programs, project management systems, inventory tracking systems, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. It’s important to note that if you are purchasing multiple types of computer software, they must each meet the eligibility requirements to qualify for the deduction.

How to Claim the Deduction for Computer Software

To claim the Section 179 deduction for computer software, you will need to file IRS Form 4562 with your tax return. This form will allow you to calculate and claim the deduction for qualifying equipment and software purchases made during the tax year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, computer software is eligible for Section 179 as long as it meets specific criteria. If you are a small business owner or self-employed individual looking to invest in essential business tools like software, taking advantage of this tax code can provide significant savings. Make sure to keep accurate records of your purchases and consult with a tax professional if you have any questions about claiming this deduction on your tax return.