George R. and Barbara H. Burrus - Page 38

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                    7.  Occasional Profits                                            
               The amount of any occasional profits, if large in relation             
          to losses incurred or the taxpayer's investment, may indicate a             
          profit objective.  Sec. 1.183-2(b)(7), Income Tax Regs.  The                
          possibility of a substantial profit in a highly speculative                 
          venture may indicate a profit objective even where profits are              
          occasional and small or nonexistent.  Id.                                   
               As petitioners have shown no profit during any year of the             
          Maple Row cattle activity, this factor is neutral.                          
                    8.  Taxpayer’s Financial Status                                   
               Substantial income from sources other than the activity                
          (particularly if the losses from the activity generate                      
          substantial tax benefits) may indicate that the activity is not             
          engaged in for profit, especially if there are personal or                  
          recreational elements involved.  Sec. 1.183-2(b)(8), Income Tax             
          Regs.                                                                       
               During each of the years in issue, Dr. Burrus earned                   
          substantial income from his medical practice, which obviously               
          made it possible for petitioners to bear the losses incurred in             
          connection with the cattle activity.  However, recreational                 
          elements, which “especially” suggest the absence of a profit                


               15(...continued)                                                       
          years.                                                                      




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