Tax Terminology

Tax Terminology

Here at PSVS we are in the trenches every day helping you navigate your way through the various complexities of your accounting-related activities. It is easy to forget that not everyone knows all the accounting-specific terminology we use daily.

We have created this fairly comprehensive glossary to supplement your knowledge and understanding and hopefully answer some of your questions.

Of course, if you have any questions send us an email or give us a call: (650) 578-1200.

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Unadjusted Basis

The basis of property for purposes of calculating gain on a sale without taking into account any depreciation taken in earlier years but with adjustments for the section 179 deduction and any special depreciation allowance.

Underpayment of Tax

The amount of tax that has not been paid by either withholding or estimated payments but that has been properly reported on the tax return.

Underpayment Penalty

A penalty assessed for not paying enough tax through withholding or because estimated tax payments were not made in a timely manner.

Understatement of Tax

The difference between the tax that should have been reported on the tax return (if all the income had been properly included and all the deductions correctly reported) and the lower tax that was actually reported on the return.

Unearned Income

Investment income (such as interest, dividends, and capital gains) and other income that is not generated by personal service (such as unemployment compensation, taxable Social Security benefits, pensions, annuities, and alimony).

Unmarried Individual

A person who is unmarried or legally separated from their spouse under a divorce or separate maintenance decree. State law governs whether a taxpayer is married or legally separated under a divorce or separate maintenance decree. A taxpayer is considered unmarried for the entire year if they can be considered unmarried as of the last day of the tax year.

Unrecognized Gain or Loss

The difference between realized gain or loss and recognized gain or loss.

Unstated Interest

The part of the stated principal amount of an installment sale contract that is treated as interest when the contract does not provide for adequate stated interest.

Useful Life

The estimated length of time it takes for property to wear out, decay, get used up, become obsolete, or lose its value from natural causes.

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