In what document was the excess earnings method first introduced for tax purposes?

The excess earnings method was first introduced for tax purposes in the document known as ARM-34, which stands for the "Asset Valuation Methods" publication by the IRS. This method was designed to determine the value of intangible assets, particularly focusing on how to assess the excess earnings attributable to those assets.

ARM-34 provided a framework for valuators to identify and measure the excess earnings generated above a normal return on tangible assets, which could then be attributed to intangible assets. This methodology has been foundational in business valuation, particularly for identifying value in situations where intangible assets play a significant role in the overall economic benefit derived from a business.

The other options do not pertain specifically to the introduction of the excess earnings method for tax purposes. IRS Publication 550 discusses investment income and expenses, FASB Statement No. 141 relates to business combinations and fair value measurement, and Tax Code Section 199A concerns qualified business income deductions rather than valuation methodologies.