Question

After several profitable years running her business, Ingrid decided to acquire the assets of a small competing business. On May 1 of year 1, Ingrid acquired the competing business for $402,000. Ingrid allocated $67,000 of the purchase price to goodwill. Ingrid’s business reports its taxable income on a calendar-year basis.

a. How much amortization expense on the goodwill can Ingrid deduct in year 1, year 2, and year 3?

b. In lieu of the original facts, assume that Ingrid purchased only a phone list with a useful life of 5 years for $18,500. How much amortization expense on the phone list can Ingrid deduct in year 1, year 2, and year 3?

Answer 1