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contrary evidence were submitted’”.2 Baker v. Commissioner, 122
T.C. 143, 168 (2004) (quoting Higbee v. Commissioner, 116 T.C.
438, 442 (2001)). Section 7491(a)(1) applies only if the
taxpayer complies with substantiation requirements, maintains all
required records, and cooperates with the Commissioner for
witnesses, information, documents, meetings, and interviews.
Sec. 7491(a)(2). Although neither party alleges the
applicability of section 7491(a), we conclude that the burden of
proof has not shifted to respondent with respect to any of the
issues in the case at bar.
Moreover, deductions are a matter of legislative grace and
are allowed only as specifically provided by statute. INDOPCO,
Inc. v. Commissioner, 503 U.S. 79, 84 (1992); New Colonial Ice
Co. v. Helvering, 292 U.S. 435, 440 (1934).
1. Deduction for Dependency Exemption
Section 151 allows deductions for exemptions for dependents
of the taxpayer. See sec. 151(c). Section 152(a) defines the
term “dependent”, in pertinent part, to include “An individual *
* * who, for the taxable year of the taxpayer, has as his
principal place of abode the home of the taxpayer and is a member
of the taxpayer’s household * * * over half of whose support, for
2We interpret the quoted language as requiring the
taxpayer’s evidence pertaining to any factual issue to be
evidence the Court would find sufficient upon which to base a
decision on the issue in favor of the taxpayer. See Bernardo v.
Commissioner, T.C. Memo. 2004-199.
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