Income Taxes

6 Months Ended

Jan. 28, 2012

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

15. Income Taxes

The following table provides details of income taxes (in millions, except percentages):

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	January 28, 2012			January 29, 2011			January 28, 2012			January 29, 2011
Income before provision for income taxes	$	2,749		$	1,730		$	4,994		$	4,155
Provision for income taxes	$	567		$	209		$	1,035		$	704
Effective tax rate		20.6	%		12.1	%		20.7	%		16.9	%

As of January 28, 2012, the Company had $3.0 billion of unrecognized tax benefits, of which $2.6 billion, if recognized, would favorably impact the effective tax rate. The Company regularly engages in discussions and negotiations with tax authorities regarding tax matters in various jurisdictions. It is reasonably possible that certain federal, foreign, and state tax matters may be concluded in the next 12 months. Specific positions that may be resolved include issues involving transfer pricing and various other matters. The Company estimates that the unrecognized tax benefits at January 28, 2012 could be reduced by approximately $0.4 billion in the next 12 months.