Business Commons^™

Setting Up The Books: A Forest Owner's Guide To Capital Accounts And Record-Keeping For Federal Income, The University Of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service

Financial Management

Forest owners have a number of federal income tax incentives available to them. Growing timber can 2 be an income-producing activity, with the trees being considered a capital asset. Income from sales or other disposition of capital assets is then taxed at capital gains rates, as opposed to ordinary income tax rates. Investments in timber can be recovered through depletion deductions and reforestation expenses, qualifying for a tax credit. These provisions and others in the tax code encourage timber production, which is generally considered to be good for both the ecology and the economy. This publication will assist you …