Final Answer:
c. Reduces taxes by $7,410 because The work opportunity credit of $11,400 (40% of $26,000 + 25% of $4,000) reduces the company's taxes by $7,410 (35% of $11,400), resulting in a net tax reduction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The work opportunity credit is a tax incentive designed to encourage employers to hire individuals from certain targeted groups facing barriers to employment. In this case, the company paid eligible employees $30,000, with $26,000 eligible for a 40% tax credit and the remaining $4,000 eligible for a 25% tax credit.
For the $26,000 eligible for a 40% tax credit, the credit amount is $10,400 (40% of $26,000). For the remaining $4,000 eligible for a 25% tax credit, the credit amount is $1,000 (25% of $4,000). The total tax credit is $11,400 ($10,400 + $1,000).
Given that the company's marginal tax rate is 35%, the tax liability is reduced by $7,410 ($11,400 * 35%). Therefore, the correct answer is (c) Reduces taxes by $7,410. The work opportunity credit effectively lowers the company's tax burden, providing a financial incentive for hiring individuals from specified target groups.
So, the answer is c. Reduces taxes by $7,410