The following info applies to UMPI Co.:

Allowance for doubtful accounts 12/31/16 $24,000

Credit Sales during 2017 1,200,000

A/R deemed worthless & written off 2017 27,000

As a result of a review and aging of accounts receivable at year end, it has been determined that an allowance for doubtful accounts of $16,000 is needed at December 31, 2017. What amount should UMPI record as "bad debt expense" for the year ended December 31, 2017? Hint: use T accounts for the Allowance account to arrive at your amount.