ANALYSIS OF THE GUIDELINES FOR CLASSIFICATION OFADVERTISING COSTS IN TAXATION

Abstract

Advertising plays a distinct role in economies around the world. Previous studieshave not resolved the question related to the classification of advertising as anexpense or capital asset. Understanding the principles set out in TheIncome TaxAct 58 of 1962, with regard to the classification of advertising cost as capital orrevenue of nature is important, since the incorrect interpretation of principles willhave a direct impact on tax liability. The focus of this study is the classification ofadvertising costs for tax purposes. Research questions posed in this paper areanswered through the development of a classification process that may assist withthe classification of advertising costs for the purpose of taxation. Guidelines forthe classification of advertising costs as capital or revenue of nature are needed tocorrectly classify advertising costs for tax purposes. Furthermore, thedetermination of when advertising costs will be regarded as capital of nature isalso determined. A qualitative research approach is applied, including a literaturereview of case law and income tax acts. The contribution of this study is found inthe guidelines set for the classification of advertising costs for tax purposes byusing principles from national and international case law