The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 (archived 2008)
Note to readers: This article was written in 2008 as an opinion piece. Tax laws and regulations as of that time have changed, so it’s important to consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re taking advantage of the most current tax breaks and incentives available. However, we hope this article provides an entertaining opinion on the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008.
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008: Helping Small Businesses Save Big
If you’re a small business owner, you might be feeling the economic pinch. Times are tough, and you’re probably wondering how to keep your business afloat. Well, have no fear, the government is here! That’s right, the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 is here to save the day, and your wallet.
Big Changes to Section 179 (aka the “Hummer” Tax Code)
Section 179 is a section of the US tax code that allows businesses to deduct the full cost of certain equipment purchases during the year they were bought. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Hummer” tax code because Hummers used to qualify for the deduction. The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 greatly raised the limits on how much could be bought and written off under Section 179. Previously, businesses could deduct up to $128,000 of equipment purchase, and the total cost of equipment purchased could not exceed $510,000. The new act almost doubles the deduction cap to $250,000 and raises the overall total cost to $800,000. This is a significant incentive for small businesses to invest in new equipment.
Bonus First-Year Depreciation of 50%
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 also offers a one-time “bonus first year depreciation” of 50% on qualifying equipment. This is after the above deduction limit is reached. In other words, the government wants small businesses to spend more money on equipment during 2008 to help stimulate the economy.
The Bottom Line
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 could be a game-changer for small businesses. With the increased deductions, bonus depreciation, and rising cost of equipment, there has never been a better time to invest in your business. If you’ve been thinking about purchasing new equipment, now might be the time to do it. Take advantage of these provisions and save big with the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008.
What Else You Need to Know
There are a few additional things small business owners need to know about the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008. First, the act includes a provision that increases the loan limits for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. This means that small businesses can now borrow more money to finance their operations.
Another important thing to note is that the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 is only temporary. The provisions described in this article are only applicable to the 2008 tax year, so if you’re thinking about taking advantage of them, it’s important to act quickly. Additionally, keep in mind that tax laws can be complicated, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional before making any major financial decisions.
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Final Thoughts
Overall, the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 is a welcome relief for small business owners who are struggling to make ends meet. With the increased deductions and bonus depreciation, small businesses can save a significant amount of money on their taxes, while also investing in equipment that can help them grow and thrive. So if you’re a small business owner, take advantage of this opportunity and see how the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 can help you save big.