- 14 - collateral in consideration for these “advances”. Bruecher Foundation did not ask for or charge Mr. Bruecher interest and did not require a repayment schedule for such “advances”. Bruecher Foundation did report the “advances” as a liability on each of its Forms 1120 for the fiscal tax years 1998 and 1999. As previously noted, in the notice of deficiency issued to Mr. Bruecher, respondent determined for tax years 1998 and 1999 that he received constructive dividends in the amounts of $33,082 and $48,112, respectively. The computation of these amounts was previously explained. Furthermore, Mr. Bruecher did not argue that such amounts were inaccurate. Mr. Bruecher argues that he intended, in good faith, to create a debtor/creditor relationship with Bruecher Foundation and that he did have the intent of repaying these “advances”. However, the only evidence presented by Mr. Bruecher which would indicate that these “advances” were loans was the corporate income tax returns (Forms 1120) and Mr. Bruecher’s self-serving testimony. However, while this evidence is to be considered, it is not controlling. “Book entries and records may not be used to conceal a situation which is not in reality what it is made to appear.” Fenn v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo. 1980-229. Based upon the objective circumstances, we must reject Mr. Bruecher’s contention that the “advances” at issue were bona fide loans. We conclude that such amounts were constructive dividendsPage: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Next
Last modified: May 25, 2011