IRS Reiterates PPP-Paid Expenses Not Deductible if Loan Forgiveness is Expected
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) borrowers have been waiting for additional guidance on the deductibility of PPP-funded expenses.
Under the new IRS guidance, a calendar year borrower who received a PPP loan in 2020 which loan has not been forgiven by the end of 2020 may not deduct expenses incurred with PPP loan proceeds if: (i) the expenses are qualifying expenses under the PPP rules (i.e., qualifying payroll costs, mortgage interest, utility payments and rent) and, (ii) the borrower reasonably expects that its loan will be forgiven. This rule applies even if the borrower has not yet submitted an application for forgiveness in 2020, so long as the borrower intends to submit an application in 2021 and reasonably expects forgiveness. (Although this guidance specifically addresses calendar year taxpayers, similar principles would apply to fiscal year taxpayers as well.)
The IRS has also released a related safe harbor that provides flexibility for borrowers who forgo forgiveness, or who are denied forgiveness, in their 2021 tax year (either in whole or in part). In such cases, the borrower may elect to deduct the previously non-deductible expenses on its federal income tax return for either its 2020 or 2021 tax year. Borrowers that undergo a change in beneficial ownership in 2020 or 2021 should be especially mindful of the electivity of the IRS’s new safe harbor. What does this mean for you:
If we are helping you track your PPP loan, we will assist with proper GL accounting entries to identify the non-deductible expenses.
Be aware of the adverse impact to your taxable income. Consider making additional estimated payments and reviewing your year-end tax plan.
If you have any questions about the PPP or this latest guidance please schedule a tax or accounting consultation with us. Contact Kristen at kmaracchini@bookkeepingservicesonline.com to schedule your appointment.
Online Bookkeeping Inc.
720.381.4626 info@bookkeepingservicesonline.com