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Multiple Choice
Which statement is NOT true about a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)?
A
REITs are exempt from paying any federal income taxes on their earnings.
B
A REIT must distribute at least 90% of its taxable income to shareholders annually.
C
REITs allow individual investors to earn a share of the income produced through commercial real estate ownership.
D
REITs are required to invest primarily in real estate assets.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). A REIT is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-generating real estate. It allows individual investors to earn a share of the income produced through commercial real estate ownership without directly owning the properties.
Step 2: Review the tax treatment of REITs. REITs are generally exempt from paying federal income taxes on their earnings, provided they meet certain requirements, such as distributing at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders annually.
Step 3: Analyze the requirement for income distribution. A REIT must distribute at least 90% of its taxable income to shareholders annually to maintain its tax-exempt status. This is a key characteristic of REITs.
Step 4: Examine the investment focus of REITs. REITs are required to invest primarily in real estate assets, such as commercial properties, residential properties, or mortgages. This is a fundamental aspect of their operations.
Step 5: Identify the statement that is NOT true. Based on the above analysis, determine which statement contradicts the characteristics or requirements of a REIT. Focus on the statement about federal income taxes and verify its accuracy.