Exploring the ins and outs of NOLs

Description

Abstract: A net operating loss, or NOL, occurs when a business’s operating expenses and other deductions for the year exceed its revenues. And, although the name would seem to indicate that operating in a “loss” situation is negative, some benefit actually can come from a year in which there’s an NOL: a tax deduction. This article shows how an NOL can be carried back or forward and discusses the benefits that either method provides, depending on one’s particular situation.