Should a business which buys a computer record the whole cost as an expense for that one period?

Answer 1

Elise,

So long as you do not exceed the maximum amount (which is more than $100,000 per year, you should expense this purchase as a Section 172 expense on your tax return.

Good luck,
Dana B.

Answer 2

In America you cannot charge off the entire cost of the computer, or any programs you buy, in one year. These expenses are considered "depreciable" and are allocated over a number of years. Unless the purchase qualifies for Section 10 ( I believe) depreciation.

Answer 3

There are limits on the amounts, but a computer can be fully depreciated in a single year. IRS rules do allow a business to do that.