Latest posts
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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…
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Federal court rules against DOL’s “white collar” overtime rule
A federal district court judge has struck down the Biden administration’s new rule regarding the salary threshold for determining whether certain employees are exempt from federal overtime pay requirements. The first phase of the rule took effect for most employers in July 2024 and affects executive, administrative and professional (EAP) employees. With a Republican administration…
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What are retained earnings — and why do they matter?
Owners’ equity is the difference between the assets and liabilities reported on your company’s balance sheet. It’s generally composed of two pieces: capital contributions and retained earnings. The former represents the amounts owners have paid into the business and stock repurchases, but the latter may be less familiar. Here’s an overview of what’s recorded in…
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How Section 1231 gains and losses affect business asset sales
When selling business assets, understanding the tax implications is crucial. One area to focus on is Section 1231 of the Internal Revenue Code, which governs the treatment of gains and losses from the sale or exchange of certain business property. Business gain and loss tax basics The federal income tax character of gains and losses…
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Using an exit agreement to manage your nonprofit’s leadership transition
All good things must come to an end — including the tenure of a respected founder or executive. Just make sure that the departure of your not-for-profit’s leader remains smooth throughout the exit and transition process. An exit agreement may help. Compensation and a continuing relationship Exit agreements are legal documents, usually developed by a…
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Have you prepared an advance health care directive?
An advance health care directive allows you to communicate your preferences, in advance, for medical care in the event you become incapacitated. Often part of a comprehensive estate plan, these directives sometimes go by different legal names depending on your jurisdiction. Let’s take a closer look at a few health care directives you should consider…