Handbook: Accounting for income taxes - KPMG · introduction to accounting for income taxes discusses the objectives and basic principles of accounting for income taxes and the general

US GAAP

October 2019

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kpmg.com/us/frv

Accounting for Income Taxes Handbook

© 2019 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and the U.S. member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative ("KPMG International"), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved.

Contents

Preface ................................................................................................................. 1Abbreviations............................................................................................................................... 4

1. An Introduction to Accounting for Income Taxes............................................... 52. Temporary Differences ................................................................................... 163. Tax Calculation ............................................................................................... 704. Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets ................................................................. 1365. Changes in Tax Laws, Rates, or Status ........................................................ 2156. The Tax Effects of Business Combinations .................................................. 2487. Foreign Operations ....................................................................................... 3168. Income Tax Issues Associated with Share-Based Payment Arrangements .. 3859. Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosure......................................... 42410. Other Considerations .................................................................................. 551Appendix A. Examples of Scheduling Temporary Differences .......................... 684Appendix B. Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing ....... 704Appendix C. Removed Appendix D. Removed Acknowledgments

Preface

Topic Reference

Forthcoming ASU on simplification - general 1.018a

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – intraperiod

allocation

9.026, 9.027a, 9.027b, Example

9.6, Example 9.7, Example 9.8,

Example 9.8a, Example 9.9,

Example 9.9a, Example 9.9b,

Example 9.10, Example 9.11,

9.049, 9.057b, 9.066, 9.069a,

9.069b, Example 9.19, Example

9.19a, 9.074, Example 9.22

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – franchise taxes

partially based on income

1.003, 9.136a, 9.137, 9.138

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – changes in tax

law in interim periods

5.017b, 5.017d, 5.017e, 10.083a

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – limiting the tax

benefits of losses in interim periods

10.081a, Example 10.29

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – transitioning to

the equity method when the indefinite reversal criterion

was previously applied

2.053, 2.057a, 7.013, 7.055, 10.013,

10.014

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – transitioning from

the equity method when the indefinite reversal criterion

will be applied

2.061a, 6.074a, 7.055

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – allocating 3.012, 10.043, 10.059b

Preface

We are pleased to provide you with our October 2019 edition of Accounting for Income

Taxes. This book is designed to assist companies and others in understanding the

application of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. In addition to an analysis of ASC Topic

740 and other pertinent sections of the FASB’s ASC, this book provides interpretive

guidance, including illustrative examples and questions and answers, and addresses

specific implementation issues identified since these sections became effective.

We expect to update this Handbook as needed based on developments in practice. You

will always be able to find the most up-to-date version of this and other KPMG

publications on KPMG's Financial Reporting View.

In our October 2019 edition, we updated interpretive guidance related to the issuance of FASB Accounting Standards Updates (ASUs) and other updates since our May 2019 edition.


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https://frv.kpmg.us/

Preface


2

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – allocating consolidated income taxes to legal entities not subject to tax

3.012, 10.043, 10.059b

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – determining whether an increase in tax goodwill is part of a business combination

6.007a, Example 6.1, 10.008, 10.008a

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – measuring impairment for a qualified affordable housing investment accounted for under the equity method

B.012

Forthcoming ASU on simplification – classifying tax benefits related to employee stock ownership plans

9.061

Clarification of how the distributed versus undistributed rate guidance applies to equity method investments

3.087b

Additional guidance on considering the provisions of the tax law when assessing the need for a valuation allowance – limitations on transfers of tax benefits

4.027

Additional guidance on the effect of disqualifying dispositions on forecasts of future taxable income

4.047

Clarification of tax-planning strategies that may not be prudent

4.061

Clarification of the accounting for transactions that involve a change in tax status and are among shareholders

5.028 – 5.028b, 9.070, 10.147, 10.155

Replacement of ‘previously taxed income (PTI)’ with ‘previously taxed earnings and profits (PTEP)’

7.007b – 7.007d, 7.026b, Example 7.2, Example 7.8a, 7.080, 7.085a – 7.085f, Example 7.11a

Additional guidance on involuntary changes in tax status in connection with a business combination

6.007b, 6.009b – 6.009c

Additional guidance on accounting for changes in tax status in a common control merger

6.095, 6.095a, 9.070

Issuance of ASU 2019-06, Extending the Private Company Accounting Alternatives on Goodwill and Certain Identifiable Intangible Assets to Not-for-Profit Entities

10.018a, 10.019c, 10.038c, 10.041, 10.042a (including endnote 5)

Clarification of how amortization of book goodwill may affect the valuation allowance assessment

10.041

Preface


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Additional interpretive guidance on recognizing an impairment that exceeds first component financial statement goodwill

10.039a

Additional interpretative guidance on intercorporate tax allocation - deferred tax assets and liabilities in separate financial statements

10.043b, 10.043c, 10.050, 10.052, 10.054, 10.054a, 10.054b

Removal of reference to ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting

10.067

Additional guidance on evaluating changes in estimates and error corrections

10.096a

Clarification about scheduling the reversal of temporary differences related to PP&E when the tax life exceeds the book life

Example A.1

This publication represents our current interpretation of ASC Topic 740, which is based partly on periodic, informal discussions with the FASB and SEC staff. Our interpretations may be affected by future guidance issued by the FASB or its staff, the SEC staff, and others involved in the standard-setting process.

We recommend that companies refer to the texts of the applicable literature and consult their accounting and tax advisers when considering the practical aspects of applying ASC Topic 740.

KPMG LLP

October 2019

Preface


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Abbreviations

The following abbreviations are used in this Handbook:

ASC FASB’s Accounting Standards Codification®

AMT Alternative minimum tax

ASU Accounting Standards Update

BEAT Base erosion and anti-abuse tax

CERT Corporate equity reduction transaction

CFC Controlled foreign corporation

E&P Earnings and profits

ESOP Employee stock ownership plan

FDII Foreign-derived intangible income

FIFO First-in first-out

FTC Foreign tax credit

GAAP Generally accepted accounting principles

GILTI Global intangible low-tax income

IAS International Accounting Standards

IPR&D In process research and development

IRC Internal Revenue Code

ISO Incentive stock option

LIFO Last-in first-out

MD&A Management discussion and analysis

NSO Nonstatutory stock options

NOL Net operating loss

OCI Other comprehensive income

R&D Research and development

R&E Research and experimentation

REIT Real estate investment trust

RIC Registered investment company

VIE Variable interest entity


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Section 1 - An Introduction to Accounting for Income Taxes

Detailed Contents

Example 1.1: Taxes Based on Tonnage Example 1.2: Taxes Based on Net Revenue (Oklahoma Business Activity Tax) Example 1.3: Taxes Based on Sales Volumes (French Contribution Economique Territorial)

1. An Introduction to Accounting for Income Taxes


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1.000 ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, the source governing accounting for income taxes, provides a methodology to recognize income tax expense for financial reporting (GAAP accounting) by focusing on the differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities recognized for financial reporting. This introduction to accounting for income taxes discusses the objectives and basic principles of accounting for income taxes and the general concepts for accounting for the differences between tax accounting (taxes payable governed by U.S. federal, state, and foreign taxing authorities) and financial statement accounting for income taxes.

1.001 Scope. ASC Topic 740 applies to domestic and foreign entities in preparing financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, including not-for-profit entities with activities that are subject to income taxes. These entities are required to recognize and disclose the income tax consequences of:

• Revenues, expenses, gains and losses that are included in taxable income of an earlier or later year than the year in which they are recognized for financial statement reporting.

• Other events that create differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their amounts for financial reporting.

• Operating loss or tax credit carrybacks for refunds of taxes paid in prior years and carryforwards to reduce taxes payable in future years. ASC paragraph 740-10-05-1

All domestic federal income taxes and foreign, state and local (including franchise) taxes based on income must be included when accounting for income taxes. All of an entity’s operations which are consolidated, combined, or accounted for under the equity method, both foreign and domestic, should apply the provisions of ASC Topic 740. ASC paragraphs 740-10-15-2 and 15-3

1.002 State, foreign and local taxes and excise taxes may be based on various measures that raise questions about applying the provisions of ASC Topic 740. For example, state taxes may be based on adjusted operating results, revenues or gross receipts, or the greater of a capital tax or income tax, and excise taxes on not-for-profits may be based on foundation investment income. ASC paragraph 740-10-15-3 states that the Income Taxes Topic applies to “[d]omestic federal (national) income taxes (U.S. federal income taxes for U.S. entities) and foreign, state, and local (including franchise) taxes based on income,” and accordingly, those taxes that are assessed on an income-based measure generally are accounted for under ASC Topic 740. ASC Topic 740 defines taxable income as “the excess of taxable revenues over tax deductible expenses and exemptions for the year as defined by the governmental taxing authority.” Thus, inherent in ASC Topic 740 is the concept that taxes on income are determined after deducting allowable expenses and losses from gross revenues and gains. See the discussion beginning in Paragraph 9.134 for specific state tax application matters and Section 7, Foreign Operations, for specific foreign tax application matters.



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Example 1.1: Taxes Based on Tonnage

The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (the Act) permits qualifying corporations to elect to be taxed under a tonnage tax regime on their taxable income from certain shipping activities in lieu of the U.S. corporate income tax or, for foreign corporations, the gross transportation tax. The tonnage tax is calculated by multiplying the maximum corporate tax rate (35%) by the notional shipping income for the year. Notional shipping income is based on the weight (net tonnage) of each qualifying vessel and the number of days that the vessel was operated as a qualifying vessel during the year in U.S. foreign trade. Accordingly, an electing entity's total tax for the year would be equal to the tonnage tax plus the income tax on nonqualifying activities. No deductions are allowed against the notional shipping income of an electing entity, and no credit is allowed against the tax imposed. Therefore, an entity in a loss position will still owe the tonnage tax. Qualifying entities may switch to this method of taxation by filing an election with the IRS. Under the tonnage tax regime an entity is required to include in determining its income taxes any gains associated with vessel dispositions unless replaced with a qualifying vessel within three years (any deferred gain for tax purposes reduces the tax basis in the replaced vessel). The tax basis of a vessel is based on the purchase price of the vessel reduced by depreciation as if the vessel was being depreciated for income tax purposes.

Because the tax calculation is based on the tonnage of an entity's qualifying vessels and is not directly tied to the income of the entity, the tonnage tax should be accounted for as a non-income-based tax. Therefore, the tonnage tax should not be classified as income taxes in the financial statements.

For purposes of measuring future tax consequences, ASC paragraph 740-10-25-20 makes an initial assumption that assets will be recovered and liabilities will be settled at their financial statement carrying amounts. Based on this assumption, expected future tax consequences are the tax effects of differences between the tax bases and financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities. In this situation, if the vessels were sold at their book carrying amounts there would be taxable gain and a deferred tax liability should be established (the fact that the taxable gain can be deferred does not change this conclusion). The deferred taxes on the basis differences in the vessels and current taxes on vessel dispositions are related to taxable income as used in ASC Topic 740 and should be classified as income taxes in the financial statements. See the discussion beginning at Paragraph 2.002 for additional information on temporary differences.



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Example 1.2: Taxes Based on Net Revenue (Oklahoma Business Activity Tax)

The Oklahoma Business Activity Tax (BAT) was enacted beginning in tax year 2010 and was based on 1% of net revenues derived from business activity in Oklahoma. However, for tax years 2010-2012, although corporate entities were required to report what their tax liabilities would be based on net revenues, the amount required to be remitted was equal to $25 plus the amount of Oklahoma franchise tax paid in 2010 for the 2009 tax year. BAT net revenues were revenues reportable on an entity’s federal tax return, excluding interest, dividends, and distributions received; less all ordinary trade or business expenses other than interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization. The BAT was scheduled to sunset beginning in tax year 2013, so absent further legislative action to extend the BAT past tax year 2012, taxpayers would never remit BAT based on net revenues.

While the BAT required taxpayers to report what their tax liabilities would be based on net revenues (which is an income-based measure, making the resulting tax subject to ASC Topic 740), because the enacted tax law would never, absent additional legislative action, require taxpayers to remit the BAT on that basis (i.e., the amount of BAT payable for tax years 2010-2012 was based on the Oklahoma franchise tax paid in 2010 and the Oklahoma franchise tax is not considered to be an income tax), the BAT regime was not considered to be an income tax subject to ASC Topic 740. The Oklahoma BAT sunset as scheduled for tax years beginning after December 31, 2012 and the Oklahoma franchise tax was reinstated.

Example 1.3: Taxes Based on Sales Volumes (French Contribution Economique Territorial)

France's business tax regime, Contribution Economique Territorial (CET or local economic contribution), includes elements based on enterprise land value and enterprise value. The enterprise value component is based on a sliding tax rate of up to 1.5% (based on sales volumes) applied to an amount that is determined using defined elements of revenues and expenses. There are limitations on the total tax that may result in capping the total CET at 3% of the enterprise value component and additional transitional relief measures related to the CET.

As the enterprise value component is based on elements of revenues and expenses, it is considered to be an income tax under ASC Topic 740. The enterprise land value component is accounted for as a non-income tax included in operating results.



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1.003 ASC Topic 740 also specifically excludes:

• Franchise tax to the extent it is based on capital and there is no additional taxbased on income. If there is an additional tax based on income, that excess isconsidered an income tax and is subject to the guidance in ASC Topic 740. InSeptember 2019, the FASB decided that an entity that pays a franchise taxpartially based on income will first account for the income tax componentunder ASC Topic 740 and then account for any incremental non-income-based tax as incurred (see Paragraph 1.018a for additional discussion of theforthcoming ASU);

• Withholding tax for the benefit of the recipients of a dividend. See Paragraph7.025 for additional discussion of withholding taxes. ASC paragraph 740-10-15-4

1.004 Objective and Basic Principles of Accounting for Income Taxes. The objectives of accounting for income taxes are (1) to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for current-year operations and (2) to recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the financial statements or tax returns. These objectives are met through ASC Topic 740’s basic principles:

(a) Recognize a current tax liability or asset for the estimated taxes payable orrefundable for the current year based on the provisions of the tax law.

(b) Recognize deferred tax assets for the tax effects of tax carryforwards anddeferred tax liabilities and assets for the estimated future tax effects oftemporary differences between the financial statement carrying amount ofassets and liabilities and their tax bases.

(c) Measure current and deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the provisionsof enacted tax law.

(d) Recognize a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets that are not expectedto be realized based on the more likely than not (a likelihood of more than50%) criterion. ASC paragraphs 740-10-25-2, 30-2

The remainder of this section discusses the general principles of accounting for income taxes. The sequence is the same as the sequence of the other sections in this book, which is designed to present more fundamental concepts first and then build upon them.

1.005 Temporary Differences. Temporary differences are differences between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its reported amount in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years when the amount reported in the financial statements is recovered or settled. Temporary differences are identified as taxable temporary differences (differences that will result in future taxable amounts) and deductible temporary differences (differences that will result in future deductible amounts). Identifying temporary differences generally requires developing a tax-basis balance sheet to compare to the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and



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liabilities. ASC Topic 740 prohibits discounting deferred tax assets and liabilities. ASC paragraphs 740-10-25-23, 30-8

1.006 Tax Calculation. ASC Topic 740 requires the reporting entity to recognize (a) taxes payable or refundable for current year taxable income and (b) deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the entity’s financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences and are calculated by multiplying temporary differences by the applicable enacted tax rate. Deferred tax assets also are recognized for the potential tax benefits of existing operating loss and other carryforwards for tax purposes.

1.007 Current tax expense or benefit is the amount of income taxes payable or receivable for the current year as determined by applying the provisions of the tax law to taxable income or loss for the year. Deferred tax expense or benefit generally is the change in the sum of the deferred tax assets, net of any valuation allowance (see Section 4, Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets), and deferred tax liabilities during the year. Total tax expense is the sum of current tax expense or benefit plus deferred tax expense or benefit. Total tax expense, both current and deferred, generally must be calculated for each tax-paying component of the entity in each tax jurisdiction. ASC paragraph 740-10-10-1

Total tax expense = current tax expense (benefit) + deferred tax expense (benefit)

1.008 The applicable enacted tax rate for current taxes is the tax rate dictated by the provisions of current tax law. The applicable enacted tax rate for deferred taxes is the enacted rate under current law that is applicable for the periods in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. In many cases, the applicable tax rate will be a single flat rate. For example, under U.S. federal tax law after the reforms enacted in 2017, taxable income generally is taxed at a flat rate of 21%. However, there are some jurisdictions in which graduated rates are expected to apply in future years. In those jurisdictions, entities will measure deferred taxes based on the enacted tax rate expected to apply when those temporary differences reverse. Entities will also need to consider other provisions of enacted tax law in the tax calculation, such as the character of the income (e.g., different tax rates on ordinary income versus capital gains). ASC paragraphs 740-10-30-8 and 30-9

1.009 As discussed, current and deferred tax expense or benefit is determined by applying the provisions of the tax law. While an entity may have a high degree of confidence that a tax position will be sustained for some positions, it may have a lower degree of confidence with respect to other positions where the tax law is subject to varied interpretation. An entity should include the current and deferred tax benefit of all its tax positions in the financial statements only when it is more likely than not that such positions will be sustained by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of those positions. The current and deferred tax benefit is equal to the largest amount, considering possible settlement outcomes, that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement with the taxing authorities. ASC paragraphs 740-10-25-6, 30-7



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1.010 Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets. A valuation allowance is required to be recognized to reduce the recorded deferred tax asset to the amount that will more likely than not (a likelihood of more than 50%) be realized. ASC subparagraph 740-10-30-5(e)

1.011 Future realization of deferred tax assets (the tax benefits of deductible temporary differences and tax operating loss and credit carryforwards) depends on sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character (for example, ordinary income vs. capital gains) in the periods in which the deductible temporary differences are expected to be recovered (or within the carryback and carryforward periods, if any) under the tax law. Sources of taxable income include (1) taxable income in the current year or prior years that is available through carryback, if carryback is permitted (potential recovery of taxes paid for the current year or prior years), (2) future taxable income that will result from the reversal of existing temporary differences for which deferred tax liabilities are recognized, and (3) future taxable income that is generated by future operations. In addition, tax-planning strategies may be available to accelerate taxable income or deductions, change the character of taxable income or deductions, or affect the amount of future taxable income that will be available to realize deferred tax assets. All available evidence, both positive and negative, should be considered when evaluating whether a valuation allowance is needed. ASC paragraphs 740-10-30-17 and 30-18

1.012 The amount of the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets can range from zero to the total amount of the deferred tax assets, not just the net deferred tax asset (net of any deferred tax liability). When determining the valuation allowance, an entity should consider whether it is possible to offset deductible temporary differences against taxable temporary differences. However, offsetting deferred tax liabilities does not justify recognizing a deferred tax asset (not recognizing a valuation allowance) if the future taxable and deductible amounts cannot be offset under applicable tax law. Accordingly, an analysis of the expected timing of reversals of temporary differences may be necessary.

1.013 Changes in Tax Laws, Rates, or Status. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted to reflect the effects of enacted changes in tax rates, changes in other provisions of the tax law, and changes in tax status. Future changes in tax laws, rates, or status are not anticipated. The effects of enacted changes in tax laws or rates are charged or credited to income from continuing operations as part of tax expense or benefit in the period in which the changes are enacted. The tax effect of a change in tax status generally is recognized on the date the election is approved by the taxing authority or, if taxing authority approval is not required, the date the election is filed and also is included in income from continuing operations. ASC paragraphs 740-10-25-32 and 25-33, 35-4, 40-6, 45-15

1.014 Business Combinations. ASC Subtopic 805-740, Business Combinations - Income Taxes, requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized on differences between the recognized financial statement amounts and tax bases of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations, except for temporary differences related to the portion of goodwill for which amortization is not deductible for tax purposes, leveraged leases1, and certain specific acquired temporary differences identified in ASC



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subparagraph 740-10-25-3a. Tax benefits are recognized at the date of acquisition for acquired deductible temporary differences and acquired carryforwards if realization is more likely than not. If a valuation allowance is recognized for acquired deductible temporary differences or acquired operating loss or tax credit carryforwards at the acquisition date, those tax benefits, when initially recognized, are recognized as a reduction to income tax expense. ASC paragraphs 805-740-25-3 and 25-4

1.015 Foreign Operations. The provisions of ASC Topic 740 apply to all foreign operations. In a foreign tax jurisdiction and for purposes of the consolidated financial statements, temporary differences may arise as a consequence of differences between the foreign currency financial statement amounts and the foreign currency tax bases of a subsidiary’s assets and liabilities. Deferred taxes should be recognized for the future tax consequences of the temporary differences in the foreign tax jurisdiction. However, ASC Topic 740 excludes some foreign temporary differences and retains the exception to recognizing deferred tax liabilities for investments in foreign subsidiaries if that difference meets the indefinite reversal criterion of ASC Subtopic 740-30, Income Taxes - Other Considerations or Special Areas (APB Opinion No. 23, Accounting for IncomeTaxes – Special Areas). ASC paragraphs 740-10-15-2 and 15-3 and 25-3

1.016 Financial Statement Presentation and Disclosures. ASC Topic 740 provides guidance about classifying deferred tax assets and liabilities within an entity’s balance sheet, allocating income tax expense to components of an income statement and equity, and footnote disclosures.

• An entity with a classified balance sheet should present all deferred tax assetsand liabilities as noncurrent.

• An entity’s total tax expense generally is allocated to continuing operations,discontinued operations, other comprehensive income, and other items inshareholders’ equity. Income tax expense is allocated to continuing operationsgenerally assuming continuing operations is the only source of taxableincome. However, certain tax effects are always included in income fromcontinuing operations such as changes in judgment as to the realization ofdeferred tax assets in future years, changes in tax laws or rates, changes in taxstatus, and noncompensation related tax-deductible dividends paid toshareholders. The remaining tax expense or benefit is allocated among theother items in proportion to their individual effects on income tax expense orbenefit for the year. ASC paragraphs 740-20-45-2 and 45-8

• Disclosures are required about current and deferred tax expense, differencesbetween actual tax expense and expected tax expense based on statutory rates,temporary differences and carryforwards, taxable temporary differences forwhich deferred tax liabilities are not recognized based on the limitedexceptions in ASC Topic 740, and information about tax uncertainties. Alsosee Paragraph 1.018. ASC paragraphs 740-10-50-2 and 50-3, and 50-6through 50-15A



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1.017 Other Considerations. Section 10, Other Considerations, of this publication provides guidance on accounting for income taxes in more specialized circumstances than those included in prior sections. The subjects covered are temporary differences acquired other than in a business combination, equity method investments, goodwill impairment calculations, intercorporate tax allocations, interim period tax calculations, pass-through subsidiaries, cooperatives, registered investment companies and real estate investment trusts, regulated entities, reorganizations and quasi-reorganizations, tax credits and government grants, and transactions among or with shareholders.

1.018 Current Standard Setting Activity. As part of its broader disclosure framework project, in March 2019, the FASB issued a proposed ASU, Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Income Taxes, which includes new disclosure requirements and modifications to existing disclosure requirements. The proposed ASU would require greater disclosure than is required by current U.S. GAAP including:

• The amounts of federal, state and foreign pretax income (loss), income taxexpense (benefit) and income taxes paid;

• The balance sheet classification and amount of unrecognized tax benefits;

• The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that reduce deferred tax assets forcarryforwards on the balance sheet;

• For public business entities, the tax-effected amounts of federal, state andforeign carryforwards by time period of expiration and related valuationallowance, if any;

• For other entities, the amounts of federal, state and foreign loss and creditcarryforwards and their expiration dates;

• For public business entities, the nature and amounts of valuation allowancesrecognized and released; and

• For public business entities, greater specificity in the rate reconciliation,including an explanation of year-to-year changes in the reconciling items.

The proposed ASU also would remove the requirements to disclose the (a) nature and estimate of possible changes in unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months, and (b) cumulative amount of each type of temporary difference for which deferred taxes have not been recognized (due to the exception to recognizing deferred taxes related to subsidiaries and corporate joint ventures).

The timing of a final ASU is unknown. See guidance on existing disclosure requirements beginning in Paragraph 9.077.

1.018a In September 2019, the FASB decided to issue an ASU that will make the following changes to ASC Topic 740.

• When allocating total income tax expense or benefit to a loss in continuingoperations, entities will no longer consider gains reflected outside continuing



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operations (for example, discontinued operations or other comprehensive income).

• Entities that pay a franchise tax that is partially based on income will first account for the income tax component under ASC Topic 740, including recognizing deferred taxes, and then account for any incremental non-income-based tax as incurred.

• Interim period calculations will be simplified by requiring companies to (1) reflect the effects of a change in tax law or rate in the estimated annual effective tax rate in the period of enactment, and (2) recognize the tax benefit of a year-to-date loss based on the estimated annual effective tax rate regardless of whether the benefit exceeds the anticipated annual benefit.

• An entity that has not recognized a deferred tax liability related to an investment in a foreign subsidiary because it has applied the indefinite reversal criterion will be required to recognize a deferred tax liability related to the remaining investment on transition to the equity method.

• An entity that has recognized a deferred tax liability related to a foreign equity method investment will derecognize it on transition from the equity method to consolidation if it meets the indefinite reversal criterion for the subsidiary.

• An entity will not be required to allocate consolidated income taxes to a legal entity that is not subject to tax for purposes of that legal entity's separate financial statements. However, an entity may elect to allocate consolidated income taxes to a legal entity if it (a) is not subject to income tax and (b) is disregarded by the taxing authority. The election can be made on an entity-by-entity basis.

• An entity will be required to consider certain factors when determining whether an increase in tax goodwill after the business combination date should be accounted for as part of the business combination or as a separate transaction.

• An equity method investor in a qualified affordable housing project will be required to measure other-than-temporary impairment under ASC Topic 323 in the period in which projections of future operating results indicate that a net loss will be recognized over the remaining term of the investment.

• An entity will classify tax benefits associated with employee stock ownership plans in income from continuing operations.

Entities will apply the amendments related to:

• Franchise taxes on either a retrospective or modified retrospective basis;

• The election to forgo the allocation of consolidated taxes to legal entities that are not subject to tax on a retrospective basis;



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• The recognition or derecognition of a deferred tax liability related to equity method investments or subsidiaries on changes in ownership on a modified retrospective basis;

• The other issues on a prospective basis.

The new guidance will be effective for public business entities for annual and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. For other entities, it will be effective for annual periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, and for interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022. Early adoption will be permitted. The timing of a final ASU is unknown.

1.019 2017 United States Tax Reform. H.R. 1, originally known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Act), was enacted on December 22, 2017 and has significantly impacted entities' accounting for and reporting of income taxes, and the related processes and controls.

1.020 Not used.

1.021 The primary sections of this book provide guidance about ongoing accounting questions that may arise after tax reform.

1 In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases. The new standard eliminates leveraged lease accounting for all leases that commence on or after the effective date of the new guidance. A lessor with a leveraged lease that commences before the effective date of the new standard will continue to apply leveraged lease accounting to that lease unless it is modified on or after the effective date. ASU 2016-02 is effective for public business entities (and not-for-profits that have issued or are conduit bond obligors for securities that are traded, listed, or quoted on an exchange or an over-the-counter market and employee benefit plans that file or furnish financial statements with or to the SEC) for annual and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018 (i.e., January 1, 2019 for public companies with a calendar year end). For all other entities, it is effective for annual periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. All entities may early adopt the new guidance.


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Section 2 - Temporary Differences

Detailed Contents

Basic Principles for Identifying Temporary Differences Example 2.1: Future Tax Consequence of Basis Differences Example 2.2: Recovery of Asset Through Use in Operations

Identifying Temporary Differences Basis Differences That Are Not Temporary Differences Because There Are No Future Tax Consequences Exceptions to Recognition of Deferred Taxes Exceptions to Recognition of Deferred Taxes – Investments in Subsidiaries and Other Investments

Example 2.3: Tiered Subsidiaries Exceptions to Recognition of Deferred Taxes – Intercompany Transactions

Example 2.4: Intercompany Transfer of Depreciable Asset (Before the Adoption of ASU 2016-16) Example 2.5: Inventory Transfer between Consolidated Companies Example 2.5a: Intercompany Transfer of an Intangible Asset to a Foreign Subsidiary Subject to IRC §367(d) Example 2.6: Allocating Changes in Tax Basis Subsequent to Transfer (Before the Adoption of ASU 2016-16) Example 2.7: Establishing a Valuation Allowance as a Consequence of an Intercompany Transfer (Before the Adoption of ASU 2016-16) Example 2.8: Intercompany Sale of Corporate Investment (Before the Adoption of ASU 2016-16) Example 2.9: Change in Intent for Intercompany Sale of Foreign Subsidiary

Exceptions to Recognition of Deferred Taxes – Other Exceptions Example 2.10: Temporary Differences Related to Bad Debt Reserves Example 2.11: Unfilled Base-Year Reserve

Temporary Differences – Specific Application Matters Example 2.12: Convertible Note with Separation of a Call Option as a Liability

2. Temporary Differences


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2.000 One of the basic principles in accounting for income taxes is to recognize deferred taxes for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the financial statements or tax returns. Such future tax consequences result from differences between the tax basis and the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, or temporary differences. This section provides information to assist in identifying temporary differences and evaluating whether deferred taxes should be recognized for those temporary differences. Section 3, Tax Calculation, discusses the measurement of deferred taxes. ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, defines a temporary difference as:

A difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability computed pursuant to Subtopic 740-10 for tax positions, and its reported amount in the financial statements that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years when the reported amount of the asset or liability is recovered or settled, respectively…Some temporary differences cannot be identified with a particular asset or liability for financial reporting…, but those temporary differences do meet both of the following conditions: (a) Result from events that have been recognized in the financial statements (b) Will result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years based on provisions of the tax law. Some events recognized in financial statements do not have tax consequences. Certain revenues are exempt from taxation and certain expenses are not deductible. Events that do not have tax consequences do not give rise to temporary differences. ASC Section 740-10-20

2.001 This temporary difference definition is fundamental when accounting for income taxes. Identifying temporary differences for which deferred taxes are recognized is one of the first steps in accounting for income taxes.

BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR IDENTIFYING TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES

2.002 Accounting for income taxes focuses on the balance sheet of an entity with the objective of recognizing deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the financial statements or in the tax returns. To measure those future tax consequences, ASC Topic 740 makes an initial assumption that assets will be recovered and liabilities will be settled at their financial statement carrying amounts. This assumption is a fundamental principle of ASC Topic 740 and is the basis for many aspects of accounting for income taxes. ASC paragraphs 740-10-10-1, 25-20

2.003 Based on this assumption, expected future tax consequences are the tax effects of differences between the tax bases and financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities. These differences are basis differences (the majority of which are also temporary differences) and arise because the recognition and measurement of assets and liabilities under the tax law may differ from recognition and measurement under



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generally accepted accounting principles. The following is a summary of certain events identified in ASC Topic 740 that typically create basis differences because the results of the events are recognized or measured under generally accepted accounting principles differently than under income tax laws. ASC paragraph 740-10-25-20

(1) Revenues or Gains That Are Recognized for Financial Statement Purposes Before They Are Taxable. Examples include undistributed earnings of investees accounted for under the equity method for financial statement purposes. These temporary differences can also arise when an entity uses one accounting method for revenue or gain recognition in its financial statements and another for income recognition on its tax return.

(2) Expenses or Losses That Are Recognized for Financial Statement Purposes Before They Are Deductible for Tax Purposes. Examples include product warranty liabilities, deferred compensation, allowances for doubtful accounts1, and inventory valuation reserves.

(3) Revenues or Gains That Are Taxable Before They Are Recognized for Financial Statement Purposes. Examples include deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions,2 advance payments and loan fees.

(4) Expenses or Losses That Are Deductible for Tax Purposes Before They Are Recognized for Financial Statement Purposes. Examples include depreciable assets when accelerated methods of depreciation are used for tax purposes, certain computer software costs and sales commissions paid to employees that are capitalized as incremental costs to obtain a contract.

(5) A Reduction in the Tax Basis of Depreciable Assets Because of Tax Credits. In certain jurisdictions that provide investment tax credits for acquisitions of depreciable assets, the tax basis of the depreciable asset may be reduced by the amount of the credit. This reduction would result in a difference between the financial statement carrying amount and the tax basis of the asset.

(6) Investment Tax Credits Accounted for By the Deferral Method. Investment tax credits accounted for by the deferred method are viewed as reductions of the financial statement carrying amount of the related assets for determining basis differences even though the credits may be reported as deferred income for financial statement purposes. In these cases, the carrying amount of the asset for financial statement purposes would be less than the tax basis of the asset.

(7) An Increase in the Tax Basis of Assets Because of Indexing for the Effects of Inflation When the Local Currency Is the Functional Currency. Tax laws in certain foreign tax jurisdictions might require adjustment of the tax basis of assets for the effects of inflation. The index-adjusted tax basis of the asset is used to compute the taxable gain or loss on the sale of the asset. When the local currency in the foreign tax jurisdiction is the functional currency for financial statement purposes, the indexing adjustment of the tax basis of the asset creates a basis difference.



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(8) Business Combinations and Combinations Accounted for by Not-for-Profit Entities. Differences often arise between the amounts assigned for financial statement purposes and the tax bases of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. Differences also arise between the tax bases and the recognized values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed (or carried over to the new entity in the case of a new entity formed by a merger of not-for-profit entities) in an acquisition by a not-for-profit entity.

(9) Intra-entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory. Intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory may result in a difference between the tax basis of the asset in the buyer's jurisdiction and the carrying amount in the consolidated financial statements. This difference results because the new tax basis in the buyer's jurisdiction generally is based on the selling price between the entities in the same consolidated group, while the carrying amount in the consolidated financial statements does not change.

2.003a Recent Changes to Revenue Guidance. The tax reform enacted in the United States in 2017 amended section 451, which addresses the interaction between financial reporting revenue or gain and taxable income. Section 451 generally requires accrual method taxpayers to recognize taxable income no later than the tax year in which the item is recognized as revenue in their financial statements (i.e., that the all events test is satisfied no later than the year in which the revenue is recognized for financial reporting purposes). This book conformity requirement has some exceptions and leaves in place certain other provisions of the code.

2.003b In addition, revenue and profit recognition for financial reporting purposes may change as a result of an entity adopting ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and ASU 2017-05, Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets (and related amendments). The ASUs provide a framework that replaces existing revenue and profit recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP and moves away from industry- and transaction-specific requirements. Entities will apply a five-step model to determine when to recognize revenue (or profit), and at what amount. The model specifies that revenue (or profit) is recognized when or as an entity transfers control of goods or services at the amount to which the entity expects to be entitled. For an entity that has adopted the new guidance, new section 451 requires it to allocate the 'transaction price' to each 'performance obligation' the same way it does for financial reporting purposes and, as discussed previously, to recognize taxable income no later than when it recognizes revenue for financial reporting purposes (subject to the limited one-year deferral that was previously provided by Rev. Proc. 2004-34 (now codified in section 451(c)).

2.003c ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2017-05 (and related amendments) were effective for public business entities (and not-for-profits that have issued or are conduit bond obligors for securities that are traded, listed, or quoted on an exchange or an over-the-counter market) for annual and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 (i.e., January 1, 2018 for public companies with a calendar year-end). For all other entities, the guidance is effective for annual periods in fiscal years beginning after



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December 15, 2018, and interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019.

2.004 The types of transactions and events noted above are specifically described in ASC Topic 740. Although not specifically identified by ASC Topic 740, other types of transactions or events also may create temporary differences. For example, the financial statement carrying amount of an acquired asset (that was not acquired in a business combination) may differ from its tax basis at acquisition due to provisions of the tax law. ASC paragraphs 740-10-25-50 through 25-523 provide detailed guidance on how to account for these transactions (see Paragraphs 2.095 and 10.001 for additional discussion). The difference between the tax basis of an asset or liability and its financial statement carrying amount that would result in taxable or deductible amounts when the financial statement carrying amount is recovered or settled represents a temporary difference under ASC Topic 740 without regard to how that difference arose.

2.005 Basis differences generally result in either future taxable amounts or future deductible amounts when the related asset is recovered or liability is settled, depending on the relationship between the financial statement carrying amount and the tax basis of an asset or liability. Basis differences that have future tax consequences are either taxable temporary differences – differences that will result in future taxable amounts, or deductible temporary differences – differences that will result in future deductible amounts. Certain basis differences are not temporary differences because they do not result in a tax consequence when the asset is recovered or the liability settled (see Paragraph 2.022 for additional discussion). Furthermore, ASC Topic 740 includes certain exceptions to the recognition of the tax effects of certain temporary differences (see Paragraph 2.031 for additional discussion). However, those specific exceptions are limited and they cannot be applied by analogy to other basis differences. ASC paragraph 740-10-25-3, 25-20 through 25-26, 25-30

2.006 Deferred taxes are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences, tax operating losses and other carryforwards, and deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences. The deferred tax asset for a deductible temporary difference or the deferred tax liability for a taxable temporary difference is determined based on the assumption that the related asset will be recovered at its financial statement carrying amount or the related liability will be settled at its financial statement carrying amount. The future tax consequences of recovering an asset or settling a liability at amounts different from the financial statement carrying amount are recognized in the future period in which the related financial statement gain or loss is recognized. ASC paragraph 740-10-25-20



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Example 2.1: Future Tax Consequence of Basis Differences

Taxable Temporary Difference

ABC Corp. has a depreciable asset with a financial statement carrying amount of $100 and a tax basis of $80. This $20 basis difference results from the use of an accelerated depreciation method for tax purposes but a straight-line method for financial statement purposes. If the asset were sold for its financial statement carrying amount of $100, ABC would report no financial statement income and $20 of taxable income on its tax return ($100 sales price less $80 tax basis). Accordingly, a deferred tax liability is recognized for this future tax consequence of the existing taxable temporary difference.

The asset also could be recovered through its use in operations. In that case, it is assumed that ABC will recover the asset at its financial statement carrying amount by earning $100, which will offset the financial statement depreciation of $100 resulting in $0 book income. However, for tax purposes, the $100 of income will be offset by only $80 of tax depreciation resulting in $20 of taxable income.

Deductible Temporary Difference

ABC establishes a $50 financial statement liability for warranty costs. A tax deduction is not allowed until the obligation is paid. Settlement of the liability at its financial statement carrying amount of $50 would result in a tax deduction of $50. A deferred tax asset is recognized for the tax effect of the future tax deduction that would be obtained when the $50 warranty liability is paid.

2.007 The following chart describes the future tax consequences of differences between the financial statement carrying amount and the tax basis of assets and liabilities.

Assets Liabilities

Taxable in the future (deferred tax liability)

Financial statement carrying amount exceeds tax basis

Example: Fixed asset with financial statement carrying amount in excess of tax basis due to accelerated depreciation method used for tax purposes

Tax basis exceeds financial statement carrying amount

Example: Convertible debt with a financial statement carrying amount less than its tax basis because it was issued with a beneficial conversion feature to which proceeds have been allocated through an adjustment to equity



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Book Tax Taxable

Temporary Difference

Book Tax Taxable


Fixed Asset 115 25 90

Convert-ible Debt 100 140 40

Assets Liabilities

Deductible in the future (deferred tax asset)

Tax basis exceeds financial statement carrying amount

Example: Organization costs capitalized and amortized for tax purposes but expensed when incurred for financial statement purposes

Financial statement carrying amount exceeds tax basis

Example: Deferred compensation expensed for financial statement purposes but not deductible for tax purposes until paid

Book Tax Deductible


Book Tax Deductible Temporary Difference

Organization Costs

— 75 75

Deferred Compen-

sation 85 — 85

2.008 Recovery of Assets and Settlement of Liabilities. Many temporary differences may arise or continue to exist in periods in which no activity related to that item has been reported on the tax return. For example, deferred taxes should be recognized for the excess of the financial statement carrying amount of a depreciable asset over its tax basis even after the tax asset ceases to be reported on the tax return as a result of becoming fully depreciated for tax purposes. Those deferred taxes reflect the tax effects of the reversals of temporary differences resulting from recovery or settlement of the related asset or liability in a discrete transaction (such as the sale of an asset or payment of a liability) or through operations (using an asset until the asset becomes fully depreciated or incurring costs for providing future services to satisfy a liability). ASC paragraph 740-10-25-20

Example 2.2: Recovery of Asset Through Use in Operations

ABC Corp. is a manufacturer of bicycles. As part of its manufacturing plant, ABC has a paint machine with a financial statement carrying amount of $150 and a tax basis of $110. Accordingly, ABC has recorded a deferred tax liability for the tax effect of the $40 ($150 - $110) temporary difference. ABC plans on retaining and using the paint machine



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in operations. The paint machine is depreciated for both financial statement and tax purposes over its remaining useful life of five years. Accordingly, assuming straight-line depreciation is applied for both financial statement and tax purposes for the remaining life of the asset, the annual financial statement and tax depreciation would be $30 ($150 ÷ 5 years) and $22 ($110 ÷ 5 years), respectively.

The temporary difference of $40 would reverse $8 ($30 - $22) per year for five years. In each of those years, the tax deduction would be $8 less than book expense, which will result in additional taxable income in each of the next five years.

2.009 A deferred gain or unearned revenue (or contract or deposit liability after the adoption of the new revenue recognition and other income standards - see below) for financial statement purposes is another example of a temporary difference if the tax law requires that the gain be included in taxable income in the year of the sale. In those circumstances, the financial statement liability would give rise to a deductible temporary difference – a financial statement liability in excess of its tax basis. Similarly, a deductible temporary difference arises when an entity reduces its revenue for estimated volume discounts and product returns.

2.009a Although the amounts may be expected to result in financial statement income in the future, it is assumed under ASC Topic 740 that the liability for the deferred gain or unearned revenue will be settled at its financial statement carrying amount. As a result, those deferred gains and unearned revenue (or contract liability) represent deductible temporary differences. The model assumes that the entity will incur future costs to earn the related revenue that are equal in amount to the financial statement carrying amount of the liability. Those costs would result in future deductible amounts – a deductible temporary difference.

2.009b As discussed previously, revenue and profit recognition for financial reporting purposes may change as a result of an entity adopting ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and ASU 2017-05, Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets (and related amendments). See Paragraph 2.003a for additional discussion.

2.010 Tax Uncertainties. Due to uncertainties under the tax law, positions taken on tax returns may be challenged and ultimately disallowed by taxing authorities. Accordingly, it may not be appropriate to reflect a position taken on the tax return when the outcome of that tax position is uncertain. As discussed in more detail in Section 3, the tax effects of temporary differences arising from tax benefits of tax positions with uncertainty generally should not be recognized as deferred tax assets (or reductions of deferred tax liabilities) for financial statement purposes unless it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained with the taxing authority (see Paragraph 9.016 for discussion of application of this guidance to net operating loss carryforwards). If an entity takes a tax position with uncertainty on its tax return, the tax benefit should not necessarily be recognized for financial statement purposes just because the position is taken in the tax



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return. ASC Subtopic 740-10, Income Taxes – Overall, (FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FIN 48))

2.011 Assuming disallowance of a tax position (and thus not recognizing it for financial statement purposes) may involve several interrelated accounting consequences, such as recognition of a reserve to offset the current deduction taken on the tax return, adjustment or establishment of deferred taxes, accrual of interest and a related temporary difference (if interest is deductible for tax purposes when settled with the taxing authorities), and accrual of penalties (note that no deduction is available for federal tax penalties and therefore no temporary difference will arise from recognition of a liability for possible future penalties).

2.012 Different Tax Jurisdictions. ASC Topic 740 generally requires separate identification of temporary differences for each tax-paying component of an entity in each tax jurisdiction, including U.S. federal, state, local, and foreign tax jurisdictions. Accordingly, an entity should identify temporary differences for each tax jurisdiction in which the entity operates by considering applicable tax legislation in that jurisdiction. In some situations, a single component may have basis differences that represent temporary differences in more than one tax jurisdiction. For example, a basis difference in the United States may be subject to U.S. federal taxes and state taxes. Similarly, a foreign branch of a U.S. company or a foreign subsidiary that generates Subpart F income or global intangible low-taxed income (GILTI) may be subject to U.S. federal taxes and foreign local taxes. See Section 3 for additional discussion on performing tax calculations for multiple tax jurisdictions and Section 7, Foreign Operations, for additional discussion on foreign operations. ASC paragraph 740-10-30-5

2.013 In certain situations, entities may be able to combine the deferred tax calculations for different tax jurisdictions, such as combining U.S. federal and state calculations when the temporary differences are the same for U.S. federal and state tax purposes, or combining deferred tax calculations for certain states when the temporary differences are the same in those state jurisdictions. Additionally, a single entity using an apportionment factor to allocate current taxable income to each state may apply a similar apportionment factor when calculating deferred taxes to the extent its expectations of future operations are consistent with such factors (see Paragraph 3.055). However, companies generally should separately identify all temporary differences for each tax jurisdiction to determine whether combined calculations would be appropriate. Although state income tax laws generally follow U.S. federal income tax laws, some states differ significantly from U.S. federal tax law. The differences may result in different bases of assets and liabilities for state tax purposes resulting in different measurements of the temporary difference. Those differences must be identified and considered in determining whether combined U.S. federal and state deferred tax calculations are appropriate. ASC paragraph 740-10-55-25

2.014 The financial statement carrying amount of a deferred state income tax asset or liability represents a temporary difference for the purposes of the U.S. federal deferred tax calculation because state taxes are deductible for U.S. federal tax. If a combined calculation of U.S. federal and state deferred taxes is performed, the effect of the



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deductibility of state taxes on U.S. federal taxes should be considered. See Paragraph 3.008 for additional discussion. ASC paragraph 740-10-55-20

2.015 Because of differences in tax laws and different tax-paying components of the entity, separate deferred tax calculations for foreign tax jurisdictions generally will be required.

2.016 Alternative Tax Systems; BEAT in the United States. Deferred taxes in the U.S. federal tax jurisdiction are identified and measured based on the regular tax system. As a result, separate identification of temporary differences under the Base erosion and anti-abuse tax (BEAT) generally is not necessary. See Paragraph 3.069 for additional discussion. ASC paragraphs 740-10-30-10 through 11

2.017 Other types of alternative tax systems may exist in foreign tax jurisdictions. It may be necessary to identify and consider temporary differences under both the regular tax and alternative tax systems in those situations. ASC paragraph 740-10-30-12

2.017a In certain situations, it may be appropriate to consider the effects of alternative minimum tax systems in the evaluation of the need for a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets. See Paragraph 4.109a for additional discussion.

IDENTIFYING TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES

2.018 The remainder of this section discusses (1) a process for identifying temporary differences, (2) basis differences that are not temporary differences, (3) exceptions to the recognition of deferred taxes for temporary differences, and (4) more complex matters that should be considered when identifying temporary differences.

2.019 The first step in identifying temporary differences is to determine the tax bases of assets and liabilities for each tax-paying component of an entity in each tax jurisdiction. Then, the financial statement carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities are compared to their tax bases. The chart presented on the following pages provides an overview of typical temporary differences that may arise for U.S. federal income tax purposes. When identifying temporary differences, consideration should be given to assets and liabilities that may not exist for financial statement purposes and to assets and liabilities that have no tax basis. Consideration should also be given to whether the tax basis, as reflected in the tax return, is more likely than not of being sustained, as deferred taxes generally should be calculated based on the difference between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the tax bases of those assets and liabilities as determined using the recognition and measurement guidance for uncertainty in income taxes. ASC Subtopic 740-10 (FIN 48). See Section 3 for additional discussion of accounting for uncertainty in income taxes.

2.020 A tax-basis balance sheet generally should be constructed to identify temporary differences in each tax jurisdiction. A review of items reported on Schedule M of the U.S. federal income tax return, which identifies items that cause differences between income for financial statement purposes and taxable income reported for the year, may be helpful



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when constructing a tax basis balance sheet. Prior years’ tax returns may need to be reviewed to ensure that all assets and liabilities for income tax purposes have been identified. In addition, a review of tax records (such as tax basis fixed asset subledgers), revenue agents’ reports, and settlements reached with the taxing authorities may be necessary.

2.021 Typical Temporary Differences. The following list identifies many typical temporary differences.

Account Potential Temporary Differences Taxable or Deductible

Cash Generally the same for financial statement and tax purposes

—

Securities Securities recorded at fair value for financial statement purposes

Taxable or Deductible

Accounts receivable Cash method used for tax purposes Taxable

Allowance for doubtful accounts

Allowance not allowed for tax purposes Deductible

Allowance for tax purposes, if permitted, generally different from the financial statement allowance


Prepaid assets Amounts expensed for financial statement purposes but recorded as prepaid assets for tax purposes

Deductible

Amounts deductible when paid for tax purposes but recorded as prepaid assets for financial statement purposes

Taxable

Inventory Valuation reserves for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Basis differences from business combinations


Additional costs capitalized for tax purposes under the uniform capitalization rules

Deductible

Notes receivable (net of discount/premium)

Discount or premium for financial statement purposes resulting from imputing interest, initial direct costs/fees, embedded derivatives, etc.




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Cash surrender value of life insurance

Cash surrender value in excess of cumulative premiums paid (assuming amounts will be taxable on surrender of the policy) See Paragraph 2.023

Taxable

Property, plant, and equipment

Different depreciation lives or methods for financial statement and tax purposes




Reduction in tax basis for investment tax credit, IRC section 179 expensing, or bonus depreciation

Taxable

Costs capitalized for financial statement purposes but not for tax purposes

Taxable

Differences in capitalized interest for financial statement and tax purposes


Change to tax basis due to the introduction of new tax legislation


Impairment write downs for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Intangible assets Assets that exist for tax purposes but not for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Assets that exist for financial statement purposes but not for tax purposes

Taxable

Different amortization lives or methods for financial statement and tax purposes


Assets that are not amortized for financial statement purposes

Taxable



Impairment write-downs recognized for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Investments in other entities

Cost method used for tax purposes and equity method used for financial statement purposes




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Other than temporary impairments of cost method investments (before the adoption of ASU 2016-01, Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities4) for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Investments in partnerships

Basis difference related to original acquisition of investment


Basis difference in the underlying assets and liabilities of the partnership that result in a difference in the investment in the partnership


Different methods used to account for investment for financial statement and tax purposes


Investments in stock of subsidiaries

Undistributed earnings recognized for financial statement purposes but not for tax purposes

Taxable

Operating losses recognized for financial statement purposes but not tax purposes

Deductible



Accounts payable Cash method used for tax purposes Deductible

Accrued compensation

Accruals not permitted for tax purposes Deductible

Accrual for tax purposes, if permitted, different from financial statement accrual


Pension liability (or asset)

Tax basis generally will differ from financial statement carrying amounts


Postretirement benefit obligations

Generally not deductible until paid Deductible

Other accruals Tax rules generally prohibit accrual of expenses for items such as plant shutdowns, litigation, warranties, estimated volume discounts, and product returns

Deductible



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State tax accruals, including deferred state income taxes

Liabilities recorded for state income taxes may differ for financial statement and tax purposes, creating temporary differences in U.S. federal jurisdiction


Self-insurance reserves

Self-insurance reserves generally not deductible for tax purposes

Deductible

Deferred income/Contract liability/Deposit liability

Income may be taxable but deferred for financial statement purposes

(See discussion of U.S. federal income tax and GAAP changes to income/revenue recognition beginning in Paragraph 2.003a.)

Deductible

Gains on sales of assets recognized immediately for tax purposes but not for financial reporting purposes

Deductible

Debt obligations Discount or premium for financial statement purposes resulting from imputing interest, initial direct costs/fees, separation of beneficial conversion features, embedded derivatives, etc.


Excess interest deductions on certain convertible debt for tax purposes (deduction based on higher interest rate than for financial statement purposes)

Taxable

Deferred investment tax credits

Deferred method used for financial statement purposes

Deductible

Deferred cumulative catch-up adjustments for tax method changes (not recognized in financial statements)

Section 481 unamortized adjustment for change in tax accounting method

Taxable or deductible

BASIS DIFFERENCES THAT ARE NOT TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES BECAUSE THERE ARE NO FUTURE TAX CONSEQUENCES

2.022 Basis differences that will not result in future taxable or deductible amounts on recovery of the related asset or settlement of the related liability are not temporary



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differences because there are no future tax consequences. Accordingly, deferred taxes are not recognized on such differences. The following paragraphs discuss common basis differences that are not temporary differences because the differences will not result in taxable or deductible amounts. ASC paragraph 740-10-25-30

2.023 Life Insurance Policies. Under current U.S. tax law, proceeds received on a life insurance policy on the death of the insured are not taxable provided the insured party meets certain criteria as defined in the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (the Pension Act) or the policy has been grandfathered by the Pension Act. Accordingly, in those situations, the excess of the financial statement carrying amount (the amount that could be realized under the insurance contract under ASC Subtopic 325-30, Investments--Other - Investments in Insurance Contracts), over cumulative premiums paid (the tax basis) for a life insurance policy will not result in a taxable amount if the entity holds the policy until the death of the insured. Deferred taxes therefore would not be recognized on the excess financial statement carrying amount if the entity expects to recover the asset by holding the policy until the death of the insured (provided the insured party meets the criteria under the Pension Act to qualify for the tax benefit or the policy has been grandfathered). However, if the policy is surrendered before the death of the insured or if the policy is not eligible for the tax benefit under the Pension Act, that basis difference, when realized, would be subject to tax. Accordingly, in those circumstances, the excess of the financial statement carrying amount over the cumulative premiums paid does represent a temporary difference and a deferred tax liability should be recognized on that taxable temporary difference. ASC paragraph 740-10-25-30

2.024 If deferred taxes previously had not been recognized on life insurance policies based on the expectation that the proceeds would not be taxable, a change in those expectations requires deferred taxes to be recognized for the excess financial statement carrying amount over the cumulative premiums paid. Those deferred taxes should be recognized when the entity changes its expectation with respect to the policies. It is not appropriate to delay recognition of the tax effects of the change in expectations until the policies are actually surrendered. See the additional discussion concerning possible tax planning strategies in Paragraph 4.061.

2.025 In some situations, an employer will endorse all or a portion of the death benefit of a life insurance policy to the employee’s beneficiary (commonly referred to as endorsement split-dollar life insurance arrangements). While the employer accrues an obligation over the service period of the employee under ASC Topic 715, Compensation--Retirement Benefits (ASC paragraphs 715-60-35-177 through 35-185), the settlement of the liability through payment of the benefit (either by the insurer or the employer) will not always result in a tax deduction for the employer. In those circumstances, the basis difference between the financial statement carrying amount of the liability and its tax basis (typically zero) is not a temporary difference and no related deferred tax asset would be recognized. Similar issues may arise in collateral assignment split-dollar life insurance arrangements. Entities should carefully consider the terms of these arrangements.



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2.026 Net Unrealized Built-in Gain. After conversion from C Corporation status to S Corporation status under U.S. federal tax law, an entity may be subject to a corporate-level tax on the net unrealized built-in gain (excess of fair value over tax basis at the date of conversion) that is realized during the five-year period after the conversion. In accordance with the tax law, that unrealized built-in gain will result in future taxable amounts under the built-in gain system only if the related asset is sold, or otherwise disposed of, during the five-year period after conversion to S Corporation status. If the entity expects to dispose of the asset within the five-year period, deferred taxes would be recognized on the lesser of (i) the excess of the financial statement carrying amount at the date of the deferred tax calculation over its tax basis at the date of conversion, or (ii) the excess of the fair value of the asset at the date of conversion over the tax basis at the date of conversion. If it is expected that the related assets would not be sold during the five-year period, basis differences are not temporary differences for which deferred taxes are recognized under the built-in gain system. See Section 5, Changes in Tax Laws, Rates, or Status, for additional guidance on changes in tax status and specifically discussion on unrealized built-in gains beginning in Paragraph 5.030. ASC paragraphs 740-10-55-64 and 55-65, 55-168 and 55-169

2.027 Accrued Tax-Exempt Interest. In the U.S. federal tax jurisdiction, accrued interest receivable recognized in the financial statements on investments that generate tax-exempt income also may give rise to basis differences. However, because these basis differences do not result in future taxable amounts when received, they are not temporary differences and deferred taxes would not be recognized on those basis differences for U.S. federal tax purposes; however, if such basis differences do result in future taxable income in individual states or in foreign jurisdictions, deferred taxes should be recorded for those jurisdictions.

2.028 Accrued Nondeductible Expenses. Certain expenses (e.g., pen

Documents

Handbook: Accounting for income taxes - KPMG · introduction to accounting for income taxes discusses the objectives and basic principles of accounting for income taxes and the general