Many solos or small firm consumer attorneys are concerned about the expenses of providing legal services to a potetial client with some type of disability, such as the loss of hearing. Such services must be provided in order to avoid liability under the American for Disabilities Act. However, many lawyers are not aware that they can claim Tax credits and deductions for these expenses. To assist businesses with complying with the ADA, Section 44 of the IRS Code allows a tax credit for small businesses and Section 190 of the IRS Code allows a tax deduction for all businesses. The tax credit is available to businesses that have total revenues of $1,000,000 or less in the previous tax year or 30 or fewer full-time employees. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in a year up to $10,250 (maximum credit of $5000). The tax credit can be used to offset the cost of undertaking barrier removal and alterations to improve accessibility; providing accessible formats such as Braille, large print and audio tape; making available a sign language interpreter or a reader for customers or employees, and for purchasing certain adaptive equipment.
The tax deduction is available to all businesses with a maximum deduction of $15,000 per year. The tax deduction can be claimed for expenses incurred in barrier removal and alterations.
To learn more about the tax credit and tax deduction provisions, contact the DOJ ADA Information Line.
