Assume that the tax law allows individuals to claim an itemized deduction for the cost of music lessons for the taxpayer or any member of his family. Instead of this deduction, individuals may claim the first $1,000 of the cost as a nonrefundable tax credit (no carry forward or carry back of any excess credit). In each of the following situations, advise the taxpayer as to whether she should take the deduction or credit. In each situation the taxpayer is single.
a. Ms. M has $80,000 AGI. Before consideration of the $5,000 cost of her music lessons, she has no itemized deductions.
b. Ms. N has $27,000 AGI. Before consideration of the $5,000 cost of her music lessons, she has $6,500 itemized deductions.
c. Ms. O has $120,000 AGI. Before consideration of the $5,000 cost of her music lessons, she has $7,200 itemized deductions.