Today’s marketplace can feel uncertain, so it’s no surprise that many businesses are stashing operating cash in their bank accounts. However, without imminent plans to deploy these reserves, do these excessive “rainy day funds” really offer efficient use of capital? If you want to estimate reasonable cash reserves while maximizing your company’s return on long-term […]

Warehousing, salaries, insurance, taxes, transportation…. And don't forget depreciation and shrinkage! Carrying significant inventory on your business’s balance sheet can be costly. Not to mention, when working capital is tied up in inventory, your business’s other strategic investment opportunities become limited. Managing your inventory more effectively reduces these costs, improving profits and increasing operating cash […]

Ready or not—the 2024 tax season is officially open! The IRS is now accepting and processing 2023 income tax returns Just as in years prior, we’re receiving an abundance of questions about this tax season. Let’s take a look at seven of the most relevant ones.  1. What are the 2024 tax season deadlines? For […]

Asset protection is a vital part of estate planning. Chances are you want to pass on as much of your wealth to family and friends as possible. To do this, you may need to shield your assets from frivolous creditors’ claims and lawsuits. One option available to you as you plan your estate is to […]

If you wish to leave a charitable legacy while still generating income during your lifetime, a charitable remainder trust, or CRT, could be a viable solution.  In addition to an income stream, CRTs offer an up-front charitable income tax deduction, as well as a vehicle for disposing of appreciated assets without immediate taxation on the […]

Courts grant monetary awards and settlements for a range of reasons.  For example, you may receive compensatory and punitive damage payments for personal injury, discrimination, or harassment. In this situation, some of the awarded amount you receive may be taxed by the federal government, and perhaps some will be taxed by your state government.  Hopefully, […]

The IRS recently announced an increase to the optional standard mileage rate used to calculate the deductible cost of operating an automobile for business. In 2024, the cents-per-mile rate for panel trucks, pickups, vans, and cars will rise from 65.5 cents to 67 cents. The increase is meant to reflect, in part, changing gasoline prices. […]

A new year means new tax-related deadlines! Here are the key dates that business owners and employers should keep on their tax planning radars in the first quarter of 2024.  Jan. 16, 2024 (If not, you must file your 2023 return and pay all taxes due by March 1, 2024 to avoid an estimated tax […]

When financial challenges arise, it can be tempting to take an early withdrawal from your traditional IRA. However, making the decision without understanding the tax implications is risky. Here’s what you need to know, including your options for avoiding the 10% early withdrawal penalty tax. First off, the penalty doesn’t always apply. A withdrawal from […]