Keep up with Section 179 Depreciation Changes

Did you know that a recent law made changes to the section 179 expensing election for 2016? These modifications took effect as of January 1. Here's what to consider as you make asset purchasing decisions this year.

• Change #1. Beginning in 2016, section 179 is indexed for inflation. This year, the basic section 179 expensing limit will be $500,000. That limit is reduced dollar-for-dollar once your purchases exceed $2,010,000.
  
  
• Change #2. The definition of "section 179 property" now permanently includes computer software and real property such as qualified leasehold and retail improvements and restaurant property. That means you can elect to use section 179 expensing when you purchase those assets.
  
  
  
• Change #3. You may be able to deduct more of qualified leasehold and retail improvements and restaurant property in 2016. Beginning this year, the law eliminated the $250,000 cap on the amount of section 179 you could claim for this property.
  
  
• Change #4. Beginning in 2016, air conditioning and heating units are eligible for section 179 expensing.

Contact us for help in maximizing the section 179 deduction for your business asset purchases.