




What is a CSSI Study?
A CSSI Study is an engineering analysis that reclassifies or segregates real estate components and improvements between real and personal property in order to accelerate the depreciation periods from 39 or 27.5 years to 15, 7, or 5 years.
Why haven't I heard of cost segregation?
Cost segregation was first applied and performed by
major accounting firms with in-house cost segregation departments on the largest
properties of their most significant clients. One study originally cost upwards
of $100,000.
CSSI developed the methods and protocols to deliver this
same service to commercial property owners at very affordable rates. This means
you can take advantage of this tax savings that was once only enjoyed by the
owners of exceptionally large properties.
Does my property qualify?
Yes, if you:
1.) Purchased, constructed, or remodeled
property after Jan. 1, 1986
and
2.) Anticipate holding the
property for at least a few years
Can I benefit from a CSSI Study?
Yes. Let us provide the necessary data to your advisors to determine
potential tax benefits.
When should a study be done?
It is best to have a study completed for the year the building or
improvements are placed in service. However, IRS Revenue Procedures allow
taxpayers to "catch up" on the depreciation that was not claimed from the first
day the property was placed in service without amending prior years' tax
returns. Furthermore, the IRS recently allowed for the "catch up" period all in
the first year rather than over four years, when the Revenue Procedure 99-49 was
first introduced. A cost segregation study can be performed on any property
constructed, acquired or remodeled since Jan. 1, 1986.
What information will be needed to complete a CSSI
Study?
While each study differs, we generally
request the following information, if available:
1.) A current tax
schedule
2.) Building cost information
3.) Change orders
We can assist you in gathering the necessary data.
How does a CSSI Study work?
Building costs are generally classified for federal income tax
purposes into three categories; (1) Tangible Personal Property, (2) Land
Improvements, and (3) Real Property. Each has a different recovery period and
method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). Our
qualified engineering-based analysis is performed by professional personnel with
in-depth knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building components
can perform a detailed analysis to properly identify the building components and
improvements that will be reclassified to take advantage of accelerated
depreciation.
Why should I perform a CSSI Study?
Without a CSSI Study your accountant will only be able
to use straight line depreciation, 39 or 27.5 years. A CSSI Study provides your
accountant with accurate information to establish 5, 7, 15, and 27.5 or 39-year
depreciation schedules, which substantially increases tax savings in the earlier
years of owning your property.
How long does a CSSI Study take?
A CSSI Study normally takes about 4 to 6 weeks from the time we
receive all the appropriate documentation.
Will a CSSI Study trigger an audit?
No. A CSSI Study strictly adheres to the IRS Cost
Segregation Audit Technique Guidelines.
If the CSSI Study comes into
question, a engineering-based cost segregation study professional from CSSI will
attend the audit without any charge.
Can a CSSI Study apply to buildings not yet
constructed?
No. However, for projects not yet
constructed, CSSI can provide estimates on tax savings from your construction
budgets. A CSSI Study will be delivered when construction is
complete.
Why should I choose CSSI?
CSSI's engineering-based cost segregation study professional
personnel have the expertise in tax laws, cases, and ruling on cost segregation,
along with real estate development and construction experience to maximize your
tax savings. Only exceptionally large accounting firms have in-house engineers
who can perform a cost segregation study at substantial fees. Our company will
work with your advisors to help you take advantage of this extremely viable tax
savings solution.
Request your complimentary CSSI property analysis...Insert info here!