- 12 - In summary, petitioner has failed to demonstrate that he undertook the minority education business with the actual and honest objective of making a profit. Accordingly, we find on the basis of the facts and circumstances of this case that peti- tioner's activity with respect to the minority education business is not an activity engaged in for profit and is therefore subject to the limitations imposed by section 183. The second issue for decision is whether payments of $2,400 to petitioner's former wife constitute deductible alimony. Peti- tioner deducted $2,400 for monthly payments made to his former wife pursuant to their separation agreement. Respondent dis- allowed this deduction in the notice of deficiency. Section 215(a) permits a deduction for the payment of alimony during a taxable year. Section 215(b) defines alimony by reference to section 71(b). Section 71(b)(1) defines alimony as any cash payment meeting the four criteria provided in subpara- graphs (A) through (D) of that section. Accordingly, if any portion of the payments made by petitioner fails to meet the four enumerated criteria, that portion is not alimony and is not deductible by petitioner. Neither of the parties argues that the requirements of sub- paragraphs (A), (B), and (C) of section 71(b)(1) have not been satisfied. Their disagreement focuses on the provisions of subparagraph (D). Section 71(b)(1)(D) requires that the payorPage: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Next
Last modified: May 25, 2011