Section 1231 Property: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

Section 1231 property refers to specific types of assets used in a trade or business that have depreciable value. This includes items such as equipment, vehicles, and rental real estate. When these assets are held for a certain period, they may qualify for capital gain treatment, allowing for a deductible ordinary loss if sold at a loss.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A landscaping company purchases a truck for business use. After using it for several years, the company sells the truck at a loss. Since the truck is Section 1231 property, the company can deduct the loss on its tax return.

Example 2: A real estate investor owns a rental property for over a year. Upon selling the property, the investor incurs a loss. This loss can be treated as a capital loss under Section 1231. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Section 1231 Property Assets used in a trade or business that have depreciable value. Qualifies for capital gain treatment if held long-term.
Capital Assets Property owned for investment purposes. Does not include business-use assets; taxed differently.
Ordinary Income Property Property that, when sold, results in ordinary income. Taxed at ordinary income rates, unlike Section 1231 gains.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you own Section 1231 property and are considering selling it, consult a tax professional to understand the implications. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates related to the sale of business assets and tax documentation.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Type of Property Depreciable assets used in a trade or business
Holding Period More than one year
Tax Treatment Capital gain treatment available for long-term assets

Key takeaways