Chapter 8, Problem 7QAP

Linda operates an illegal gambling operation. Which of the following expenses that she incurs can reduce taxable income? a. Bribes paid to city employees. b. Salaries to employees. c. Security cameras. d. Kickbacks to police. e. Rent on an office. f. Depreciation on office furniture and equipment. g. Tenants casualty insurance. h. Utilities.

Green, a police officer, suspected that Brown was engaged in illegal racketeering activities. To obtain evidence of Brown’s illegal conduct, Green place a bug in Brown’s home without a warrant. Green may have violated which of Brown’s constitutional rights? A. Fourteenth Amendments rights. B. Fifth Amendments rights. C. Sixth Amendments rights. D. Fourth Amendments rights.

On Thursday, Justin flies from Baltimore (where his sole proprietorship office is located) to Cadiz (Spain). He conducts business on Friday and Tuesday; vacations on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday (a legal holiday in Spain); and returns to Baltimore on Thursday. Justin was scheduled to return home on Wednesday, but all flights were canceled due to bad weather. As a result, he spent Wednesday watching floor shows at a local casino. a. For tax purposes, what portion of Justins trip is regarded as being for business? b. Suppose Monday was not a legal holiday. Would this change your answer to part (a)? Explain. c. Under either part (a) or (b), how much of Justins airfare qualifies as a deductible business expense?