Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) provide growth opportunities. But these transactions also introduce accounting complexities. Here’s a closer look at the rules for reporting business combinations under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Getting it right is essential to managing stakeholder expectations and providing a solid foundation for future financial reporting. Breaking down the purchase price […]
The IRS created Revenue Ruling 59-60 to outline the methods and factors to consider when valuing closely held businesses for federal gift and estate tax purposes. Today, it’s often referenced in valuations prepared for other reasons, including divorce cases and shareholder disputes. Here’s a closer look at what it prescribes, including lesser-known details that you […]
Home values have risen significantly in many areas of the country over the last several years, leaving some homeowners with substantial gains when they sell. Of course a large profit is generally a good thing. But, depending on the amount of your gain, how long you’ve owned and resided in the home, and your income […]
In recent years, employers have had to follow a long and winding road to determine which employees are eligible for overtime pay under federal law. That thoroughfare straightened out a bit in May 2026 when the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Wage and Hour Division formally rescinded the 2024 overtime rule and restored the previous […]
What the DOL’s Massive Reporting Overhaul Means for Labor Unions The U.S. Department of Labor has issued a final rule significantly revising labor organization financial reporting requirements under the LM‑2 framework. This new ruling, which is the first major overhaul in more than two decades, takes effect July 1, 2026 and applies to fiscal years starting after June 30, 2026. This new ruling introduces meaningful new requirements—and […]
When a marital estate includes a closely held business, the value of goodwill often becomes a contentious issue. Goodwill is an intangible asset that can have substantial value. However, whether it’s considered a marital asset depends on case facts, state law and legal precedent. A business valuation professional can help you navigate this complex issue. […]
Research by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and others has consistently found that some industries suffer higher fraud losses than others. For example, according to the ACFE’s Occupational Fraud 2026: A Report to the Nations, the median fraud loss per incident for the mining, real estate, energy and wholesale trade sectors is $220,000 or […]
Persistent inflation, elevated interest rates and volatile energy costs continue to squeeze profit margins for many small and midsize businesses. While implementing price increases may seem like the simplest response, that’s not always necessary — and, in today’s competitive markets, price increases can even cause some of your customers to search for lower-cost providers. Sustainable […]
A properly structured grantor retained annuity trust (GRAT) can be a powerful tool for those with estates large enough that gift and estate taxes are a concern. It allows you to transfer wealth to your loved ones at little or no tax cost while continuing to enjoy an income stream for a period of years. […]
Tax scammers continue to target taxpayers through email, text messages, phone calls and regular mail. They often try to create urgency or fear to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or sending money. The IRS warns taxpayers to remain cautious because scammers continually change tactics to steal personal and financial information. IRS impersonation scams First […]
Late customer payments don’t just create temporary cash shortages. Over time, inconsistent collections can disrupt budgeting, increase borrowing needs and make it harder to plan for growth. In response to cash flow challenges, many businesses focus heavily on increasing revenue while overlooking how efficiently they convert receivables into cash. But even a strong top line […]
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t necessarily mean you close shop. Many distressed businesses decide to reorganize instead. This option provides a path for continued operations. Here’s how a business valuation professional can provide insight during this process — and help your business thrive going forward. Recent trends Continued economic uncertainty has caused many businesses to struggle […]