Section 179
Section 179 of the IRS tax code lets businesses deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and software in the year it's purchased, instead of depreciating it over several years.
Section 179 Definition
Section 179 allows businesses to immediately expense (deduct) the full cost of qualifying assets in the year they're placed in service. Instead of spreading the deduction over 5–7 years through depreciation, you get the entire write-off upfront.
2026 Section 179 Limits
What Qualifies?
What Doesn't Qualify?
Section 179 vs. Bonus Depreciation
How to Record Section 179 in QuickBooks
Record the asset purchase as a fixed asset. At year-end, your CPA will calculate the Section 179 deduction and create a depreciation journal entry for the full amount. The asset stays on your balance sheet with accumulated depreciation equal to its cost.
FAQ
Q: Can I use Section 179 for a vehicle?
A: Yes, with limits. Passenger vehicles have strict caps (~$20,400 first year). SUVs/trucks over 6,000 lbs GVWR can deduct up to $28,900 under Section 179, plus bonus depreciation on the rest.
Related Terms
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