For many years, conservation easements have been a powerful estate planning tool that enable taxpayers to receive income and estate tax benefits while continuing to own and enjoy the properties. So it’s no surprise that the IRS has been scrutinizing easements to ensure they meet tax code requirements. The tax agency has even issued a […]
With each passing year, as networked technology becomes more and more integral to how companies do business, a simple yet grim reality comes further into focus: The cyberattacks will continue. In fact, many experts are now urging business owners and their leadership teams to view malicious cyberactivity as more of a certainty than a possibility. […]
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a new final rule regarding the salary threshold for determining whether employees are exempt from federal overtime pay requirements. The threshold is slated to jump 65% from its current level by 2025 and is expected to make four million additional workers eligible for overtime pay. On the same […]
Many people dream of turning a hobby into a regular business. Perhaps you enjoy boating and would like to open a charter fishing business. Or maybe you’d like to turn your sewing or photography skills into an income-producing business. You probably won’t have any tax headaches if your new business is profitable over a certain […]
Tax-advantaged accounts or reimbursement arrangements for health care have become popular employer-sponsored benefits. And for good reason — these accounts or arrangements ease the burden of high costs on organizations while giving employees a tax-friendly way to manage medical expenses. The IRS, however, has concerns. The tax agency recently issued a news release (IR-2024-65) warning […]
Most people are genuinely appreciative of inheritances, and who wouldn’t enjoy some unexpected money? But in some cases, it may turn out to be too good to be true. While most inherited property is tax-free to the recipient, this isn’t always the case with property that’s considered income in respect of a decedent (IRD). If […]
For the third consecutive year, the IRS has published guidance that offers some relief to taxpayers covered by the “10-year rule” for required minimum distributions (RMDs) from inherited IRAs or other defined contribution plans. But the IRS also indicated in Notice 2024-35 that forthcoming final regulations for the rule will apply for the purposes of determining […]
You may be currently facing this dilemma: You’ve retired (or you’re approaching retirement) and, while you want to maintain your current standard of living, you also want to preserve as much of your wealth as possible for your family. This balance can be difficult to achieve, especially when your retirement can last decades. One strategy […]
Many businesses support their communities by donating to local charities. Although there are plenty of nonprofits that deserve your support, some exist solely to facilitate fraud. How can you avoid the latter? Familiarize yourself with the deceptive tactics scammers use and carefully screen charities for legitimacy — before you write a check. Branding tricks Fraud […]
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) established and expanded numerous incentives to encourage taxpayers to increase their use of renewable energy and adoption of a range of energy efficient improvements. In particular, the law includes funding for nearly $9 billion in home energy rebates. While the rebates aren’t yet available, many states are expected to launch their programs […]
Irrevocable trusts can allow for the smooth, tax-advantaged transfer of wealth to family members. But there’s a drawback: When you set up an irrevocable trust, you must relinquish control of the assets placed in it. What you can control is who will eventually oversee distribution of assets after your death. However, sometimes — particularly when the […]
Business owners are commonly and rightfully urged to regularly generate financial statements in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). One reason why is external users of financial statements, such as lenders and investors, place greater trust in financial reporting done under the rigorous standards of GAAP. But that’s not the only reason. GAAP-compliant financial statements […]