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Tangible Property Regulations Study FAQs

Your TPR questions, answered.

What are Tangible Property Regulations (TPR)?

Tangible Property Regulations are IRS rules that determine how businesses must classify and expense costs related to acquiring, improving, maintaining, or disposing of tangible property. They provide guidance on whether costs should be capitalized and depreciated or deducted as repairs.

Who needs a Tangible Property Regulation (TPR) study?

Any business or real estate owner that regularly incurs expenses for building improvements, renovations, or equipment replacements can benefit from a TPR study. It helps ensure compliance and identify deductible repair and maintenance costs that may provide immediate tax savings.

What is the purpose of a TPR study?

A TPR study analyzes a property owner’s expenditures to determine whether they should be capitalized or expensed, and calculates any Partial Asset Dispositions (PAD) for assets removed during renovations or upgrades.

How do the Tangible Property Regulations impact taxes?

TPR rules can significantly reduce taxable income by allowing certain costs to be deducted immediately as repairs, rather than depreciated over many years. They also allow taxpayers to write off the remaining value of assets that are no longer in service.

What is a Partial Asset Disposition (PAD) under TPR?

A PAD occurs when a portion of a property—such as a roof, HVAC system, or window set—is replaced. TPR rules allow you to deduct the remaining undepreciated value of the removed asset in the year it’s disposed of.

Can a TPR study be applied retroactively?

Yes. In many cases, taxpayers can apply TPR principles to prior years through a change in accounting method (Form 3115) to capture missed deductions and adjust depreciation schedules.

Are Tangible Property Regulations mandatory?

Yes. TPR rules are not optional—businesses must follow them when determining the proper treatment of costs related to tangible property, whether they result in capitalization or deduction.

How do TPR studies work with cost segregation studies?

TPR studies often complement cost segregation studies. While cost segregation focuses on reclassifying building components for accelerated depreciation, a TPR study identifies repair deductions and PAD opportunities for assets no longer in service.

How can I ensure my business is compliant with TPR?

Working with experienced tax professionals who specialize in TPR studies is the best way to ensure compliance, maximize deductions, and reduce audit risk. They can review past expenditures, implement proper accounting methods, and prepare necessary IRS documentation.

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