September 2020

There’s Always Certainty in Taxes: IRS Issues Tax Guidance for the Marijuana Industry


During these unpredictable times, there is certainty in taxes. This month the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) posted a dedicated marijuana-industry specific webpage providing general tax guidance and FAQs for the predominantly cash-based industry.  The guidance does not signify a change to the existing law but rather reminds marijuana business owners of their responsibility to pay federal taxes.

This IRS guidance is on the heels of a report from earlier this year by the Treasurer Inspector General for Tax Administration (“TIGTA”), aptly titled “The Growth of the Marijuana Industry Warrants Tax Compliance Efforts and Additional Guidance.” In the report, TIGTA recommended that the IRS develop educational guidance to assist marijuana businesses in understanding their tax obligations.

In the recent tax guidance, the IRS confirms that marijuana businesses are subject to the limitations of Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 280E explicitly disallows tax deductions or credits for businesses that traffic a Schedule 1 or controlled substance. Although marijuana may be state-legal, on the federal level it is still considered a controlled substance classified as a Schedule 1.  Section 280E greatly impacts the profitability of marijuana businesses, because they are not able to make the same tax deductions or … Keep reading

Changes to the Accredited Investor Definition


Marijuana-related businesses (“MRBs”) planning to raise money in private offerings should be aware of recent changes to the “accredited investor” definition under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”). The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) recently adopted a final rule (the “Final Rule”) amending Rule 501(a) of Regulation D promulgated under the Securities Act, which expands the definition of “accredited investor.”

Topline conclusion: These changes establish additional investor eligibility qualifications, thereby increasing the available pool of potential investors who may participate in private securities offerings. This is good news for MRBs hoping to raise money, particularly under Rule 506(b) or Rule 506(c).

When will these changes become effective?  The Final Rule will become effective sixty (60) days following its publication in the Federal Register. It is anticipated that the effective date will be sometime in early November 2020.

Will the Final Rule change the income and net worth standards required for individuals?  No. The income and net worth thresholds for individuals remain the same.  That is, individuals must still have an annual income of at least $200,000 (or $300,000, together with his/her spouse) or a net worth of more than $1 million (excluding the … Keep reading