Final answer:
Brittany's amortization expense for the second year is focused on the goodwill, which is amortized over 15 years. The annual amortization of the goodwill is $1,667, while the non-compete agreement would have been completely amortized in the first year, contributing $0 in the second year. Thus, the correct amortization expense for the second year is $1,667.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate Brittany's amortization expense for the second year for the intangible assets, we need to understand the nature of § 197 intangibles. According to IRS regulations, the cost of certain intangible assets acquired in connection with the purchase of a business must be amortized (deducted) over a 15-year period, which applies to assets like goodwill and going-concern value. However, if an asset has a definite life (such as a 1-year non-compete agreement), it must be amortized over its useful life.
In Brittany's case, $50,000 has been allocated equally to two § 197 intangible assets. This means that $25,000 is allocated to the goodwill and another $25,000 to the non-compete agreement. Goodwill can be amortized over the IRS stipulated 15-year period, which would make its annual amortization expense $1,667 (rounded to the nearest whole number). The non-compete agreement with a life of one year would typically be amortized completely in the first year, which is the year of acquisition. Hence, its amortization expense in the second year would be $0.
Since the question asks for the amortization expense in the second year and considering the non-compete agreement would be fully amortized in year 1, we focus only on the goodwill. Therefore, the correct answer for the amortization expense in the second year is $1,667, which means that option B is the correct choice.