Gave a Gift? Here’s When You Need to File a Gift Tax Return
The givers of gifts (donors), not the recipients (donees), file gift tax returns. If you give money or property, you may be legally required to file a gift tax return with the IRS—even if you owe no gift tax. In fact, most people who file gift tax returns do not pay any gift tax because each […]
Buying a Business That Doesn’t Close? Here’s How the Tax Rules Apply
If you’re considering buying a business, it’s important to understand how the related investigation and acquisition costs are treated for federal income tax purposes—especially if a deal falls through. A recent example illustrates how these rules work. Jim, an employee looking to become a business owner, spent $15,000 researching an industry and identifying a target […]
Optimizing Tax Strategy: Should Your Business Elect PTET?
Do you own a business organized as a pass-through entity (PTE)—such as a partnership, a limited partnership, an S corporation, or a multimember LLC taxed as a partnership or an S corporation? If so, you face an important tax decision: Should your business elect pass-through entity taxes (PTET)? For the past several years, many PTE […]
Essential Tax Insights for Businesses Operating Multiple Corporations
If you operate multiple corporations, you might assume each one entitles you to its own set of tax benefits, including separate Section 179 limits, additional credits, or even expanded retirement plan flexibility. Unfortunately, under controlled group corporation tax rules, the tax code doesn’t see it that way. Hidden within IRC Section 1563 are rules that […]
2025 Tax Planning Guide: Life and Family Considerations
Are you thinking of getting married or divorced? If so, consider December 31, 2025, in your tax planning. It’s crucial for marriage and family tax strategies. Here’s another planning question: Do you give money to family or friends (other than your children, who are subject to the kiddie tax)? If so, you need to consider […]
A Small Business Owner’s Guide to Health Plans and Tax Savings
All small-business owners with one to 49 employees should have a medical plan for their business. Sure, it’s true that with 49 or fewer employees, the tax law does not require you to have a plan, but you should. When you have 49 or fewer employees, most medical plan tax rules are straightforward. Here are […]
Optimize Year-End Vehicle Tax Deductions
Wow, how time flies! Yes, December 31 is just around the corner. That’s your last day to find tax deductions available from your existing business and personal (yes, personal) vehicles that you can use to cut your 2025 taxes. But don’t wait. Get on this now! Take Back Your Child’s or Spouse’s Car, and Sell It […]
Year-End Retirement Planning: Five Strategic Steps for 2025
The clock continues to tick. Your retirement is one year closer, and exploring 2025 retirement plan options should be a priority. You have time before December 31 to take steps that will help you fund the retirement you desire. Here are five things to consider, especially when evaluating your 2025 retirement plan options. 1. Establish […]
Navigating the New Tip Tax Deduction: Eligibility, Limits, and Reporting Requirements
Congress recently passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, or OBBBA, which introduces a new tax deduction for tips beginning in 2025. This provision, called “No Tax on Tips,” sounds broader than it really is. The deduction is both temporary and limited in scope, and many tips will still be subject to taxation. Who Qualifies […]
Integrating QCDs Into Your 2025 Tax Strategy
If you’re age 70 1/2 or older, the IRS allows you to make charitable contributions directly from your IRA to approved organizations, such as your church. These transfers, known as qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), have become even more powerful under the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)—and could be one of the most effective […]