As the holidays approach, it’s time to consider tax planning moves that will help lower your 2024 taxes, as well as set you up for tax savings in future years. Here are seven year-end tax planning ideas to consider. 1. Strategize on the Standard Deduction vs. Itemizing This is a tried-and-true year-end tax planning strategy. […]
If the fringe benefits of your job include employer-paid group term life insurance, a portion of the premiums for the coverage may be taxable. And that could result in undesirable income tax consequences for you. The cost of the first $50,000 of group term life insurance paid by your employer is excluded from taxable income. […]
While the use of paper checks has greatly diminished, thieves still view them as a source for stealing revenue. In fact, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network warns that many thieves are returning to old-fashioned financial theft, using paper checks. That’s one reason why the U.S. Postal Service urges us to not send checks through the […]
Some small businesses struggle with employee morale for a variety of reasons, one of which may be economic uncertainty. If you want to boost employees’ spirits without a big financial outlay, an achievement awards program is a relatively low-cost fringe benefit that may be a win-win addition. Under such an initiative, you can hand out […]
As the saying goes, there’s nothing certain in life except for death and taxes. But when it comes to selling your home, proactive tax planning can help you reduce your federal income tax bill. A Costly Mistake to Avoid Let’s say Tom is a soon-to-be married homeowner who’s looking to sell his principal residence. If […]
If you’re a business owner, your company is likely your most valuable asset. To ensure it survives after you’re gone, you first need a succession plan that will provide a smooth transition of the business to one or more of your children (assuming you want to keep it in the family). In addition, you need […]
It’s a challenging time for many businesses. Therefore, any help you can get, such as tax incentives and sales tax exemptions, can make a big difference. Unfortunately, these benefits often go unclaimed because businesses don’t know about them or erroneously think they’re ineligible. 1. Statutory Incentives Some credits are available “as of right.” That is, […]
Many businesses need to have some inventory available. But having too much inventory is expensive, not just to purchase but also to store, safeguard and insure. So, keeping your inventory as lean as possible is critical. Here are some ways to trim the fat from your inventory without compromising revenue and customer service. Where to […]
Teachers who are getting ready for a new school year often pay for some of their classroom supplies out-of-pocket. They may be able to get some of that cost back by taking advantage of a special tax break for educators. History of the Deduction Before 2018, employees who had unreimbursed out-of-pocket expenses could potentially deduct […]
Are you in the process of starting a business or contemplating changing your business entity? If so, you’ll need to decide how to organize your company. Should you operate as a C corporation or as a pass-through entity such as a partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or S corporation? Among the important factors to consider […]