Tax Planning for a Small Business
Small business owners still have time to make tax planning moves to lower their 2020 federal income tax bills — and possibly lay the groundwork to save taxes in future years. [...]
Employees: Don’t Forget About Your FSA Funds
Many employees take advantage of the opportunity to save taxes by placing funds in their employer’s health or dependent care flexible spending arrangements (FSAs). As the end of 2020 nears, [...]
Bring Home a Tax Credit for Adoption
When you adopt a child, you could bring home more than a bundle of joy. You may also be in line for a valuable tax credit. For 2020, a tax [...]
Fraud Alert: Have You Heard About New Vishing Attacks?
For years, businesses and individuals have had to worry about so-called "phishing" scams sent via email or text. These cyberattacks are designed to hook unsuspecting victims into revealing sensitive information. [...]
Valuation of Business Assets in Divorce: One Case Provides Insight
Sometimes estranged spouses can remain fair, rational, and civil during divorce proceedings. But in other cases, a divorce can turn ugly. When the couple's assets involve a business interest, the [...]
Like-Kind Exchanges: New Proposed IRS Regs Define Real Property
The IRS has issued new proposed regulations that define what constitutes real property to determine eligibility for tax-deferred Section 1031 "like-kind" exchanges. Importantly, the proposed regs allow personal property that's [...]
Medical Costs: Can I Really Get a Tax Break for That?
It's difficult for many people to write off medical expenses because of the limits imposed under the tax laws. But you may qualify by including every expense allowed. Some of [...]
The Easiest Way to Survive An IRS Audit Is to Get Ready in Advance
IRS audit rates are historically low, according to the latest data, but that’s little consolation if your return is among those selected to be examined. But with proper preparation and [...]
What Tax Records Can You Throw Away?
October 15 was the deadline for individual taxpayers who extended their 2019 tax returns. (The original April 15 filing deadline was extended this year to July 15 due to the [...]
How to Save Taxes in 2020 and Beyond
It's time to implement strategies to help reduce your 2020 federal income tax bill and position yourself for future tax savings. Here are some ideas to consider before year end. Gaming [...]
Tax Implications When Lenders Cancel Debts in the Covid-19 Era
In the COVID-19-ravaged economy, debts can pile up beyond a borrower's ability to repay. Lenders sometimes may be willing to forgive (or cancel) debts that are owed by certain borrowers. While [...]
CARES Act Changes Rules for NOL Carrybacks and QIP
Consider these two favorable federal income tax rule changes included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act when deciding whether to take advantage of first-year depreciation breaks [...]
Why It’s Important to Plan For Income Taxes as Part of Your Estate Plan
As a result of the current estate tax exemption amount ($11.58 million in 2020), many estates no longer need to be concerned with federal estate tax. Before 2011, a much [...]
Can Investors Who Manage Their Own Portfolios Deduct Related Expenses?
In some cases, investors have significant related expenses, such as the cost of subscriptions to financial periodicals and clerical expenses. Are they tax deductible? Under the Tax Cut and Jobs [...]
Divorcing Homeowners: What About the Vacation Home?
Only principal residences qualify for the home sale gain exclusion break. So, there are no special tax breaks if you sell a vacation home before or after a divorce. While [...]