Investments in oil and gas have potential for both income and tax benefits.
Some are risky in the "wildcat" style, while others pose much smaller risks for investors. Some have the potential for a rags-to-riches story, too, although a stable income and substantial tax advantages are more likely. Much depends on the type of investment.
Intangible Drilling Costs
One of the tax benefits of oil and gas investments is the ability to deduct intangible drilling costs, or IDCs. IDCs are expenses connected with drilling and preparing wells for production. Included are such items as wages, fuel, repairs, hauling charges and supplies. Initially, as much as three-fourths of an investment can go to pay for these intangibles, allowing a large deduction early into the investment.
