When preparing for a business audit, an IRS auditor references a handy guide called an IRS Audit Techniques Guide (ATG). An ATG provides information on a specific industry and reviews potential issues on the taxpayer’s return. These ATGs are available…
It may seem premature, but it’s never too early to start tax planning for small businesses. Here are three tax breaks to consider. 1. Claim bonus depreciation or a Section 179 deduction for newly purchased assets Current tax law allows…
In the case of embezzlement, what options does a business owner have in recuperating some of the losses? A business may be able to claim a federal income tax deduction for a theft loss, but does embezzlement count as theft?…
Whether pandemic-related or not, struggling businesses look for financial assistance in the form of affordable conventional loans. And some profitable businesses may benefit from refinancing to more favorable terms on their existing debt. Doing so can help reduce interest expense…
Taxpayers and tax preparers alike have become increasingly frustrated with the speed at which the Internal Revenue Service has been processing tax returns. This backlog has been caused by a number of factors, the latest of which is discussed in…
After a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, owners of qualified retirement plans and IRAs must adhere to the rules for required minimum distributions (RMDs). The RMD rules are tricky and could result in a substantial tax penalty if…
Roth IRA and 401(k) accounts were created in 1998. Contributions to Roth accounts are taxed on the front end at ordinary tax rates when made. But withdrawals from these accounts are generally tax-free on the back end. If you began saving for your retirement…
Employment disruptions caused by the COVID-19 economic slowdown have scrambled the retirement saving strategies of many Americans. According to a recent survey, nearly half of employed Americans either reduced or suspended their retirement savings during the pandemic. Moreover, around 30% of…
If you’re a business owner and you’re getting a divorce, tax issues can complicate matters. Your business ownership interest is one of your biggest personal assets and in many cases, your marital property will include all or part of it.…
What if you decide to, or are asked to, guarantee a loan to your corporation? Before agreeing to act as a guarantor, endorser or indemnitor of a debt obligation of your closely held corporation, be aware of the possible tax…