§ 996.
(a)
Rules for actual distributions and certain deemed distributions
(1)
In general
Any actual distribution (other than a distribution described in paragraph (2) or to which section 995(c) applies) to a shareholder by a DISC (or former DISC) which is made out of earnings and profits shall be treated as made—
(A)
first, out of previously taxed income, to the extent thereof,
(B)
second, out of accumulated DISC income, to the extent thereof, and
(C)
finally, out of other earnings and profits.
(2)
Qualifying distributions
Any actual distribution made pursuant to section 992(c) (relating to distributions to meet qualification requirements), and any deemed distribution pursuant to section 995(b)(1)(G) (relating to foreign investment attributable to producer’s loans), shall be treated as made—
(A)
first, out of accumulated DISC income, to the extent thereof,
(B)
second, out of the earnings and profits described in paragraph (1)(C), to the extent thereof, and
(C)
finally, out of previously taxed income.
In the case of any amount of any actual distribution to a C corporation made pursuant to section 992(c) which is required to satisfy the condition of section 992(a)(1)(A), the preceding sentence shall apply to 16/17ths of such amount and paragraph (1) shall apply to the remaining 1/17th of such amount.
(3)
Exclusion from gross income
(b)
Ordering rules for losses
If for any taxable year a DISC, or a former DISC, incurs a deficit in earnings and profits, such deficit shall be chargeable—
(1)
first, to earnings and profits described in subsection (a)(1)(C), to the extent thereof,
(2)
second, to accumulated DISC income, to the extent thereof, and
(3)
finally, to previously taxed income, except that a deficit in earnings and profits shall not be applied against accumulated DISC income which has been determined is to be deemed distributed to the shareholders (pursuant to section 995(b)(2)(A)) as a result of a revocation of election or other disqualification.
(f)
Definition of divisions of earnings and profits
For purposes of this part:
(2)
Previously taxed income
(3)
Other earnings and profits
(Added [Pub. L. 92–178, title V, § 501] Dec. 10, 1971, [85 Stat. 547]; amended [Pub. L. 94–455, title XI, § 1101(e)], title XIX, §§ 1901(b)(3)(I), Oct. 4, 1976, [90 Stat. 1659], 1793; [Pub. L. 95–600, title VII, § 703(i)(3)], Nov. 6, 1978, [92 Stat. 2940]; [Pub. L. 98–369, div. A, title VIII, § 801(d)(10)], July 18, 1984, [98 Stat. 997]; [Pub. L. 99–514, title XVIII, § 1876(k)], Oct. 22, 1986, [100 Stat. 2900].)