Question

4. Firm E must choose between two alternative transactions. Transaction 1 requires a cash outlay of $9,000; this expense would be non-deductible in the computation of the firm’s taxable income. Transaction 2 requires a cash outlay of $13,500, all of which would be a deductible expense. Determine which transaction has the lesser after-tax cost, assuming: a) Firm E’s marginal tax rate is 20 percent. b) Firm E’s marginal tax rate is 40 percent.

Answer 1

a. Transaction 1

It is not deductible so the Taxable income is $9,000

Transaction 2

It is deductible, taxable income would be;

= 13,500 * ( 1 - Tax)

= 13,500 * ( 1 - 20%)

= $10,800

b. Transaction 1

It is not deductible so the Taxable income is $9,000

Transaction 2

It is deductible, taxable income would be;

= 13,500 * ( 1 - Tax)

= 13,500 * ( 1 - 40%)

= $8,100