Latest posts
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Certain charitable donations allow you to avoid taxable IRA withdrawals
If you’re a philanthropic individual who is also obligated to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from a traditional IRA, you may want to consider a tax-saving strategy. It involves making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD). How it works To reap the possible tax advantages of a QCD, you make a cash donation to an IRS-approved…
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3 areas of focus for companies looking to control costs
Controlling costs is fundamental for every business. But where and how to address this challenge can change over time based on various economic and logistical factors. Earlier this year, global consultancy Boston Consulting Group published a report entitled The CEO’s Guide to Costs and Growth. Within it were the results of a survey of 600…
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Six tax issues to consider if you’re getting divorced
Divorce entails difficult personal issues, and taxes are probably the farthest thing from your mind. However, several tax concerns may need to be addressed to ensure that taxes are kept to a minimum and that important tax-related decisions are properly made. Here are six issues to be aware of if you’re in the process of…
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Vroom vroom: What businesses should know about sales velocity
Owning and running a company tends to test one’s patience. You wait for strategies to play out. You wait for materials, supplies or equipment to arrive. You wait for key positions to be filled. But, when it comes to sales, how patient should you be? A widely used metric called “sales velocity” can help you decide.…
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IRS extends relief for inherited IRAs
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…
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SECURE 2.0: Which provisions went into effect in 2024?
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) 2.0 Act was signed into law in December 2022, bringing more than 90 changes to retirement plan and tax laws. Many of its provisions are little known and were written to roll out over several years rather than immediately taking effect. Here are several important changes that…
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Auditing warehouse operations
When you hear the word “audit,” you might automatically associate it with financial reporting or the IRS. But auditing warehouse operations might also be beneficial for some businesses, such as manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Awkward or repetitive movements by employees, oversized packages and disorganized layouts can slow down productivity and even lead to medical and…
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A self-directed IRA can benefit your estate plan — but know the risks
Traditional and Roth IRAs can be powerful estate planning tools. With a “self-directed” IRA, you may be able to amp up the benefits of these tools by enabling them to hold alternative investments that offer potentially greater returns. However, self-directed IRAs may present pitfalls that can lead to unfavorable tax consequences. Therefore, you need to…
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Bookkeeping provides a solid foundation for financial reporting
There are currently more than 33 million small businesses in the United States, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. To succeed in today’s competitive markets, it’s essential for your business organization to have accurate books and records. Bookkeeping vs. accounting For starters, you should understand the distinction between bookkeeping and accounting. Bookkeeping refers to…
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Does a FAST make sense for your estate plan?
On the one hand, you want your estate plan to achieve certain “technical” objectives. These may include minimizing gift and estate taxes, and protecting your assets from creditors’ claims or frivolous lawsuits. On the other hand, you also want your plan to achieve “aspirational” goals. These may include preparing your children or grandchildren to manage…
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Why auditors monitor journal entries
With a median loss of $766,000, financial misstatement schemes are the costliest type of fraud, according to “Occupational Fraud 2024: A Report to the Nations,” a study published by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Fortunately, auditors and forensic accountants may be able to detect financial statement fraud by testing journal entries for errors and…
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A job loss is bad but the tax implications could make it worse
Unemployment has been holding steady recently at 3.7%. But there are still some people losing their jobs — particularly in certain industries including technology and media. If you’re laid off or terminated from employment, taxes are likely the last thing on your mind. However, there are tax implications due to your altered employment circumstances. Depending…