Which scenario describes a deferred tax asset?

• A. A tax is paid in cash but not yet expensed
• B. A tax expense is reported but not paid
• C. A loss is anticipated in future periods
• D. Tax benefits are recognized immediately

Answer: (A)

A deferred tax asset arises when a company pays taxes but does not yet recognize that expense on its financial statements. This situation often occurs due to timing differences between when a tax is paid and when it is reported in the income statement. For instance, a company may pay taxes upfront but carry the associated expense over to future periods, creating a scenario where there is an asset reflecting future tax benefits.

In contrast, a scenario where a tax expense is reported but not paid represents a deferred tax liability, not an asset. Anticipating a loss in future periods typically relates to carryforwards and could lead to a deferred tax asset, but it doesn’t capture the essence of immediate cash payment leading to future benefits. Recognizing tax benefits immediately does not align with the concept of deferred tax assets, which inherently deals with timing differences that create future tax advantages.