Us Code § 985 - Functional currency

Full text of Us Code United States Code § 985 — Functional currency, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 985. Functional currency

(a) In general

Unless otherwise provided in regulations, all determinations under this subtitle shall be made in the taxpayer's functional currency.

(b) Functional currency

(1) In general

For purposes of this subtitle, the term "functional currency" means—

(A) except as provided in subparagraph (B), the dollar, or

(B) in the case of a qualified business unit, the currency of the economic environment in which a significant part of such unit's activities are conducted and which is used by such unit in keeping its books and records.

(2) Functional currency where activities primarily conducted in dollars

The functional currency of any qualified business unit shall be the dollar if activities of such unit are primarily conducted in dollars.

(3) Election

To the extent provided in regulations, the taxpayer may elect to use the dollar as the functional currency for any qualified business unit if—

(A) such unit keeps its books and records in dollars, or

(B) the taxpayer uses a method of accounting that approximates a separate transactions method.


Any such election shall apply to the taxable year for which made and all subsequent taxable years unless revoked with the consent of the Secretary.

(4) Change in functional currency treated as a change in method of accounting

Any change in the functional currency shall be treated as a change in the taxpayer's method of accounting for purposes of section 481 under procedures to be established by the Secretary.

(Added Pub. L. 99–514, title XII, §1261(a), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2585.)


Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 99–514, title XII, §1261(e), Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2591, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Except as provided in paragraph (2), the amendments made by this section [enacting this subpart and amending sections 1092 and 1256 of this title] shall apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 1986.

"(2) Special rules for purposes of sections 902 and 960.—For purposes of applying sections [former] 902 and 960 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, the amendments made by this section shall apply to—

"(A) earnings and profits of the foreign corporation for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1986, and

"(B) foreign taxes paid or accrued by the foreign corporation with respect to such earnings and profits."

About This Section

26 U.S.C. § 985 is part of Title 26 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 26 U.S.C. § 985. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions About Us Code § 985

What does United States Code § 985 cover?

Section 985 ("Functional currency") is part of the United States Code, the codified statutory law of Us Code. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Us Code § 985?

A common citation format is "United States Code § 985" (Us Code). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Us Code law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Us Code official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

How does Us Code § 985 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Us Code can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Us Code.