Schedule C - Cost of Goods Sold
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) is a critical component when reporting business income on Schedule C (Form 1040). It represents the direct costs attributable to the production or purchase of goods sold during the tax year. Properly calculating COGS ensures accurate reporting of net profit or loss from your business.
When to Report COGS
- COGS must be reported if your business involves the production, purchase, or sale of merchandise as an income-producing factor.
- It is required for businesses that maintain inventories at the beginning and end of the tax year.
- COGS is reported in Part II of Schedule C, specifically in the section titled "Cost of Goods Sold."
How to Calculate COGS
The calculation of COGS typically follows this formula:
COGS = Beginning Inventory + Purchases + Direct Costs - Ending Inventory
Direct costs may include materials, labor, and other expenses directly tied to producing or acquiring goods for resale.
Reporting Requirements
- Enter the total COGS on line 26 of Schedule C.
- Ensure that all expenses related to producing or acquiring goods are included and properly allocated.
- Do not include indirect expenses such as advertising, wages, or supplies unless they are directly tied to production.
Special Considerations
- If you capitalize certain costs (e.g., direct and indirect costs of producing property), reduce the amounts on lines 8 through 27a and Part V accordingly.
- Refer to Publication 538 for guidance on uniform capitalization rules.
- For detailed instructions on inventory accounting methods, consult the IRS guidelines for Schedule C.
Source:
Schedule C (Form 1040) Instructions
Disclaimer: Always verify details with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.