Latest posts
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How to forecast smarter
Financial forecasting provides a roadmap to guide your organization on the path to success. Forecasts support strategic planning by helping you allocate resources efficiently, manage risks effectively and optimize capital investments. However, today’s dynamic marketplace is uncharted territory, so you can’t rely solely on historical data. Reliable forecasts also consider external market trends and professional…
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Balancing legacy and independence: The role of an inheritor’s trust
An inheritor’s trust is a specialized estate planning tool designed to protect and manage assets you pass to a beneficiary. One of its primary advantages is asset protection. It allows your beneficiary to receive his or her inheritance in trust rather than as an outright gift or bequest. Thus, the assets are kept out of…
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7 common M&A due diligence pitfalls
In 2025, global merger and acquisition (M&A) volume is expected to surge to the highest level in four years, according to Reuters. M&As require thorough due diligence to minimize risks and maximize long-term value. Some business combinations fail to achieve expected results due to financial missteps, overlooked liabilities and integration challenges. Here’s an overview of…
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Saving for college: Tax breaks and strategies your family should know
As higher education costs continue to rise, you may be concerned about how to save and pay for college. Fortunately, several tools and strategies offered in the U.S. tax code may help ease the financial burden. Below is an overview of some of the most beneficial tax breaks and planning options for funding your child’s…
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Companies can shine a light on financial uncertainty with flash reports
Managing the financial performance of your business may sometimes seem like steering a ship through treacherous waters. Perhaps your voyage goes smoothly for a while until, quite suddenly, you hit a concerning dip or abrupt swell — either of which creates considerable operational pressure. Your financial statements should provide keen insights into how your company…
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Businesses can still cut their 2024 taxes
The qualified business income (QBI) deduction allows owners of pass-through entities, including sole proprietors, to deduct up to 20% of their QBI. The deduction is set to expire in 2026, at which point income would be taxed at owners’ individual income tax rates. (However, with Republicans in control of the White House, the Senate and…
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Growing the business means supporting your managers
Many different shortcomings can hold back the growth of a company. Some are obvious, such as poor cash flow management or flawed strategic plans. Others aren’t so easy to see. Take, for example, disjointed or under-supported managers. If you don’t dedicate the time and resources to strengthening the bonds of your management team, and provide the…
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Operating as a C corporation: Weigh the benefits and drawbacks
When deciding on the best structure for your business, one option to consider is a C corporation. This entity offers several advantages and disadvantages that may significantly affect your business operations and financial health. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of operating as a C corporation. Tax implications A C corporation allows the…
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Maximize your 401(k) in 2025: Smart strategies for a secure retirement
Saving for retirement is a crucial financial goal and a 401(k) plan is one of the most effective tools for achieving it. If your employer offers a 401(k) or Roth 401(k), contributing as much as possible to the plan in 2025 is a smart way to build a considerable nest egg. If you’re not already…
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How companies can better control IT costs
Most small to midsize businesses today are constantly under pressure to upgrade their information technology (IT). Whether it’s new software, a better way to use the cloud or a means to strengthen cybersecurity, there’s always something to spend more money on. If your company keeps blowing its IT budget, rest assured — you’re not alone. The…
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Understanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate continues to be historically low, ranging from 4.0% to 4.3% from May to November of 2024. With today’s hiring challenges, business owners should be aware that the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is available to employers that hire workers from targeted groups who face…
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Savings bonds and taxes: What you need to know
When considering the advantages of U.S. Treasury savings bonds, you may appreciate their relative safety, simplicity and government backing. However, like all interest-bearing investments, savings bonds come with tax implications that are important to understand. Deferred interest Series EE Bonds dated May 2005 and after earn a fixed rate of interest. Bonds purchased between May…