Reviewing — and possibly revising — your nonprofit’s spending policy
A spending policy is the formula used to determine how much of the value of investments a nonprofit organization will tap each year for such expenses as operating costs and capital projects. Although it’s usually a good idea to stick with an established spending policy, circumstances may warrant changes. There’s no one-size-fits-all optimal spending policy. But five general types have emerged — each with pros [...]
How to avoid the early withdrawal tax penalty on IRA distributions
When you take withdrawals from your traditional IRA, you probably know that they’re taxable. But there may be a penalty tax on early withdrawals depending on how old you are when you take them and what you do with the money. Important: Once you reach a certain age, you must start taking required minimum distributions from your traditional IRAs to avoid a different tax penalty. [...]
The kiddie tax: Does it affect your family?
Many people wonder how they can save taxes by transferring assets into their children’s names. This tax strategy is called income shifting. It seeks to take income out of your higher tax bracket and place it in the lower tax brackets of your children. While some tax savings are available through this approach, the “kiddie tax” rules impose substantial limitations if: The child hasn’t reached [...]
Evaluating “going concern” concerns
Under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), financial statements are normally prepared based on the assumption that the company will continue normal business operations into the future. When liquidation is imminent, the liquidation basis of accounting may be used instead. It’s up to the company’s management to decide whether there’s a so-called “going concern” issue and to provide related footnote disclosures. But auditors still must evaluate [...]
Three tax breaks for small businesses
Sometimes, bigger isn’t better: Your small- or medium-sized business may be eligible for some tax breaks that aren’t available to larger businesses. Here are some examples. 1. QBI deduction For 2018 through 2025, the qualified business income (QBI) deduction is available to eligible individuals, trusts and estates. But it’s not available to C corporations or their shareholders. The QBI deduction can be up to 20% [...]
Interested in an EV? How to qualify for a powerful tax credit
Sales and registrations of electric vehicles (EVs) have increased dramatically in the U.S. in 2022, according to several sources. However, while they’re still a small percentage of the cars on the road today, they’re increasing in popularity all the time. If you buy one, you may be eligible for a federal tax break. The tax code provides a credit to purchasers of qualifying plug-in electric [...]
Important considerations when engaging in a like-kind exchange
A business or individual might be able to dispose of appreciated real property without being taxed on the gain by exchanging it rather than selling it. You can defer tax on your gain through a “like-kind” or Section 1031 exchange. A like-kind exchange is a swap of real property held for investment or for productive use in your trade or business for like-kind investment real [...]
How to account for collaborative agreements
Today, many companies share research or technology to develop new products. For example, manufacturers might enter into a joint venture to conduct scientific research to design a new medical device. Or a watchdog group might work with a production company to create and distribute a documentary film. How revenue and other payments between the parties are reported can have a major impact on a participant’s [...]
The tax obligations if your business closes its doors
Sadly, many businesses have been forced to shut down recently due to the pandemic and the economy. If this is your situation, we can assist you, including taking care of the various tax responsibilities that must be met. Of course, a business must file a final income tax return and some other related forms for the year it closes its doors. The type of return [...]
Remote auditing: A brave new world
The pandemic has presented numerous challenges for businesses, but it also taught us how to be resilient, cost-conscious and adaptable. Over the last few years, we’ve learned that remote working arrangements offer many benefits, including reducing the time and cost of performing many tasks. Here’s how these lessons translate to the work auditors do to prepare your company’s financial statements. Transitioning from on-site to remote [...]
Is your nonprofit paying enough attention to Generation Z?
A new generation is spearheading social movements, volunteering for causes and making charitable donations. If your organization isn’t paying attention to Generation Z — the youngest cohort of adults — you may miss out on its energy and support. This demographic is particularly motivated by social justice issues and is financially generous. Here’s how to engage these individuals. Pursuing social impact The oldest members of [...]
Last call for lease accounting
The updated lease accounting standard is currently in effect for private companies. After several postponements during the pandemic, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) voted unanimously to move forward with the changes. That means private companies and private not-for-profit entities that follow U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) must adopt the new standard for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2021, and interim periods within fiscal [...]
How do taxes factor into an M&A transaction?
Although merger and acquisition activity has been down in 2022, according to various reports, there are still companies being bought and sold. If your business is considering merging with or acquiring another business, it’s important to understand how the transaction will be taxed under current law. Stocks vs. assets From a tax standpoint, a transaction can basically be structured in two ways: 1. Stock (or [...]
2022 Q3 tax calendar: Key deadlines for businesses and other employers
Here are some of the key tax-related deadlines affecting businesses and other employers during the third quarter of 2022. Keep in mind that this list isn’t all-inclusive, so there may be additional deadlines that apply to you. Contact us to ensure you’re meeting all applicable deadlines and to learn more about the filing requirements. August 1 Report income tax withholding and FICA taxes for second [...]