While the value of virtual currency continues to fluctuate, the IRS’s interest in it has only increased. In 2021, for example, the agency launched Operation Hidden Treasure to root out taxpayers who don’t report income from cryptocurrency transactions on their federal income tax returns. Moreover, the Inflation Reduction Act, enacted in 2022, allocated $80 billion to the […]
by Qiva Dinuri, J.D., LL.M. Taxation Tax exemption is a valuable privilege granted to certain organizations, such as nonprofit entities, charities, and religious institutions. Maintaining this status, however, requires compliance with specific rules and regulations set forth by the IRS and tax authorities—meaning, it is possible to lose your organization’s tax-exempt status. Here are some step-by-step […]
Recent reports have raised anew concerns about the impending insolvency of the Social Security program, absent congressional action. Social Security reform has long been considered a “third rail” of American politics and understandably so — the options for heading off insolvency will inevitably cause pain for significant segments of the population. Yet some in Congress […]
Are you getting ready to retire? If so, you’ll soon experience changes in your lifestyle and income sources that may have numerous tax implications. Here’s a brief rundown of four tax and financial issues you may contend with when you retire: Taking required minimum distributions. These are the minimum amounts you must withdraw from your […]
You may think you don’t need to make any estate planning moves because of the generous federal estate tax exemption of $12.92 million for 2023 (effectively $25.84 million if you’re married). However, if you have significant assets, you should consider establishing a living trust to avoid probate. Probate is a court-supervised legal process intended to […]
President Biden has signed into law the new debt ceiling agreement that he reached with U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). The Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) suspends — as opposed to raising — the debt ceiling until 2025, after the next presidential election. The FRA also makes a variety of changes related to […]
by Marijane Kantzabedian, CPA; David Lam, CISSP, CPP; and Jun Wang, CPA, MST | Check out the Startup Solutions series The rapid advancement of technology, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning have undoubtedly transformed the way we work and conduct business. From audits to protecting data to incentivizing employees, organizations are embracing technological solutions to […]
by Jun Wang, CPA, MST | Check out the Startup Solutions series In today’s fast-paced business landscape, startups are constantly striving to push the boundaries of innovation. To support their efforts and fuel their growth, the federal government provides research and development (R&D) credits as a valuable incentive. These credits offer startups and small businesses a […]
If you’ve received, or will soon receive, a significant inheritance, it may be tempting to view it as “found money” that can be spent freely. But unless your current financial plan ensures that you’ll comfortably reach all your goals, it’s a good idea to have a plan of action for managing your newfound wealth. Take […]
If you itemize deductions on your tax return, you may wonder: What medical expenses can I include? The IRS recently issued some frequently asked questions addressing when certain costs are qualified medical expenses for federal income tax purposes. Basic rules and IRS clarifications You can claim an itemized deduction for qualified medical expenses that exceed […]
When it comes to estate planning, there’s no shortage of techniques and strategies available to reduce your taxable estate and ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. Indeed, the two specific strategies discussed below should be used in many estate plans. Take advantage of the annual gift tax exclusion Don’t underestimate the tax-saving […]
A common question for people planning their estates or inheriting property is: For tax purposes, what’s the “cost” (or “basis”) an individual gets in property that he or she inherits from another? This is an important area and is too often overlooked when families start to put their affairs in order. Under the fair market […]