Each year, Tom and Cindy Bates report itemized deductions of $10,000, including a $4,000 pledge payment to their church. Upon the advice of a friend, they do the following: in early January 2015, they pay their 2014 pledge; during 2015, they pay the 2015 pledge; and in late December 2015, they prepay their 2016 pledge.

a. Explain what the Bateses are trying to accomplish.

b. What will be the tax saving if their marginal tax bracket is 25% for all three years? (Assume that the standard deduction amounts for 2015 and 2016 are the same.)

c. Write a letter to Tom and Cindy Bates (8212 Bridle Court, Reston, VA 20194) summarizing your analysis.