If you’re getting ready to file your 2024 tax return and your tax bill is higher than you’d like, there may still be a chance to lower it. If you’re eligible, you can make a deductible contribution to a traditional IRA until this year’s April 15 filing deadline and benefit from the tax savings on your 2024 return.
Read MoreIf an individual taxpayer has substantial business losses, unfavorable federal income tax rules can potentially come into play. Here’s what you need to know as you assess your 2024 tax situation.
Read MoreThe construction industry has made great strides in overcoming the outdated perception that it’s rife with corruption. Unfortunately, the fact remains that contractors lose hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to occupational fraud.
Read MoreA revocable trust (sometimes referred to as a “living trust”) is a popular estate planning tool that allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and ensure a smooth transfer of those assets to your family after your death. Plus, trust assets bypass the probate process, which can save time, reduce costs and maintain privacy. However, like any legal instrument, a revocable trust has certain disadvantages.
Read MoreInformation technology (IT) is constantly evolving. As the owner of a small to midsize business, you’ve probably been told this so often that you’re tired of hearing it. Yet technology’s ceaseless march into the future continues and, apparently, many companies aren’t so sure they can keep up.
Read MoreThe Child Tax Credit (CTC) has long been a valuable tax break for families with qualifying children. Whether you’re new to claiming the credit or you’ve benefited from it for years, it’s crucial to stay current on its rules and potential changes. As we approach the expiration of certain provisions within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) at the end of 2025, here’s what you need to know about the CTC for 2024, 2025 and beyond.
Read MoreBusinesses in certain industries employ service workers who receive tips as a large part of their compensation. These businesses include restaurants, hotels and salons. Compliance with federal and state tax regulations is vital if your business has employees who receive tips.
Read MoreMany construction businesses reach a point in their growth when they decide to maintain inventories. They might keep on hand items such as building materials, supplies, personal protective equipment and tools. Maybe yours already does.
Read MoreYour estate plan is the perfect place to make charitable gifts if you’re a charitably inclined individual. One vehicle to consider using is a donor-advised fund (DAF).
What’s the main attraction? Among other benefits, a DAF allows you to set aside funds for charitable giving while you’re alive, and you (or your heirs) can direct donations over time. Plus, in your estate plan, you can designate your DAF as a beneficiary to receive assets upon your death, ensuring continued charitable giving in your name.
Read MoreStrong leadership is essential to running a successful business. However, as perhaps you’ve experienced, playing the role of a strong leader can force you to make tough decisions that expose you to legal claims.
Business owners who are particularly worried about this type of risk can buy directors and officers (D&O) insurance to hedge against it. Although every small to midsize business may not need one of these policies, some should consider buying coverage.
Read MoreRetirement is often viewed as an opportunity to travel, spend time with family or simply enjoy the fruits of a long career. Yet the transition may bring a tangle of tax considerations. Planning carefully can help you minimize tax bills. Below are four steps to take if you’re approaching retirement, along with the tax implications.
Read MoreA variety of tax-related limits that affect businesses are indexed annually based on inflation. Many have increased for 2025, but with inflation cooling, the increases aren’t as great as they have been in the last few years. Here are some amounts that may affect you and your business.
Read MorePresident Trump and the Republican Congress plan to act swiftly to make broad changes to the United States — including its federal tax system. Congress is already working on legislation that would extend and expand provisions of the sweeping Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), as well as incorporate some of Trump’s tax-related campaign promises.
Read MoreFrom the moment they launch their companies, business owners are urged to use key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor performance. And for good reason: When you drive a car, you’ve got to keep an eye on the gauges to keep from going too fast and know when it’s time to service the vehicle. The same logic applies to running a business.
Read MoreNew and used “heavy” SUVs, pickups and vans placed in service in 2025 are potentially eligible for big first-year depreciation write-offs. One requirement is you must use the vehicle more than 50% for business. If your business usage is between 51% and 99%, you may be able to deduct that percentage of the cost in the first year. The write-off will reduce your federal income tax bill and your self-employment tax bill, if applicable. You might get a state tax income deduction too.
Read More