Final answer:
The tax cost recovery method that limits the amount a taxpayer can deduct each year is the § 179 expense, as it has a specific annual cap on deductions set by the tax code.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about which tax cost recovery methods limit the amount a taxpayer can deduct each year. The answer is that the § 179 expense allows for an immediate deduction of the cost of qualifying property; however, it is subject to limitations based on the amount of qualifying property placed in service during the tax year and taxable income. It's important to note that while MACRS depreciation, straight-line depreciation, and first-year bonus depreciation each have their own rules and limitations, § 179 expense specifically imposes a cap on the annual deduction. Here is a brief overview:
MACRS depreciation uses accelerated methods allowing for larger deductions in the earlier years of an asset's life.
Straight-line depreciation spreads the deduction evenly over the asset's useful life.
§ 179 expense permits a substantial immediate deduction, but with an annual limit set by the tax code.
First-year bonus depreciation allows for an additional deduction in the first year, without an annual limit, subject to certain conditions.
Therefore, the § 179 expense is the cost recovery method that has a direct annual limitation on the amount a taxpayer can deduct.