Hubert and Jared Are Both Involved in Automobile Accidents, Which

question 80

Essay

Hubert and Jared are both involved in automobile accidents, which totally destroy their automobiles this year. Hubert and Jared purchased the automobiles at the same time for the same cost, and neither of them receives any insurance reimbursement for the destruction of their automobiles. Before considering the effect of their casualties, Hubert and Jared have identical adjusted gross incomes. Although Hubert and Jared are seemingly alike in every aspect regarding the automobiles, Hubert is allowed a deduction of $2,000 for the destruction of his automobile and Jared is not allowed any deduction for his automobile. What causes this disparity of treatments between Hubert and Jared? Explain. Use examples if necessary.

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Definitions:

FIFO Cost Flow

An inventory valuation method (First In, First Out) where goods first purchased or produced are sold or used first.

Income Tax Expense

The amount of money a company is obligated to pay in income taxes for a given fiscal period.

Net Income

The amount of earnings remaining after all expenses, taxes, and dividends have been deducted from total revenue, often referred to as net earnings or net profit.

LIFO Cost Flow

An inventory valuation method that assumes the last items placed into inventory are the first ones to be sold.