Why it’s important to plan for income taxes as part of your estate plan
As a result of the current estate tax exemption amount ($11.58 million in 2020), many estates no longer need to be concerned with federal estate tax. Before 2011, a much smaller amount resulted in estate plans attempting to avoid it. Now, because many estates won’t be subject to estate tax, more planning can be devoted […]
Year-end tax planning goes to the movies
Year-end tax planning is a bit more complex this year as many of our clients received loans through the Paycheck Protection Program. While the loan proceeds are not taxable, word is still out whether the business expenses paid for with the loan will be deductible. Therefore, we are preparing tax projections with two scenarios in […]
A nonworking spouse can still have an IRA
It’s often difficult for married couples to save as much as they need for retirement when one spouse doesn’t work outside the home — perhaps so that spouse can take care of children or elderly parents. In general, an IRA contribution is allowed only if a taxpayer has compensation. However, an exception involves a “spousal” […]
Cash gifts a good way to say ‘well done’ this school year
This school year has been like no other. Students, teachers and parents have all been tested, and graduating seniors have perhaps made the biggest sacrifice by not being able to participate in commencement ceremonies. You may want to show your extra appreciation and admiration for their hard work and congratulations on a job well-done by […]
CARES Act contains two payroll tax provisions to help employers
Opportunities to preserve some cash flow during the coronavirus health crisis are available through the CARES Act whether or not you received a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program. Employee Retention Credits. One of those provisions under the CARES Act allows eligible employers to qualify for a refundable credit against, generally, the employer’s portion of the […]
April 1 deadline for RMD from retirement accounts
It’s nearing that time again for the deadline to take required minimum distributions from retirement accounts. April 1, 2020, is the deadline for those who turned 70 ½ in 2019 to take their required minimum distribution from their IRA and workplace retirement plans. The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019 (SECURE […]
IRS Free File is good option for many employees
Younger taxpayers who want to get a head start on filing their taxes can take advantage of IRS Free File. IRS Free File, which will open to taxpayers on Monday, Jan. 27, is available for taxpayers with modest incomes – less than $69,000 – making it the ideal solution for hourly employees and those still […]
SECURE Act brings changes to retirement plans, kiddie tax and more
Congress recently passed, and the President signed into law, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act), landmark legislation that may affect how you plan for your retirement. Many of the provisions go into effect in 2020, which means now is the time to consider how these new rules may affect your […]
Gifts of cash could mean tax savings for you
As we head toward the gift-giving season, you may be considering giving gifts of cash or securities to your loved ones. Taxpayers can transfer substantial amounts free of gift taxes to their children and others each year through the use of the annual federal gift tax exclusion. The amount is adjusted for inflation annually. For […]
Making business improvements before year-end may get you a bonus
Let’s talk bonus depreciation. It’s time for year-end tax planning, and under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, qualified new and used property that is acquired and placed in service in your business in 2019 is eligible for 100 percent first-year bonus depreciation. In other words, if you have been thinking about purchasing some equipment […]