The excess earnings method: When is it appropriate?
The excess earnings valuation method was developed more than 90 years ago and, although controversial, it remains in wide use today, particularly in divorce cases. Generally, sophisticated valuation professionals view the method as unreliable and avoid using it. But it continues to be appropriate under certain circumstances. How it works The excess earnings method was […]
Considerations for Traditional IRA Distributions
Although planning is needed to help build the biggest possible nest egg in your traditional IRA (including a SEP-IRA and SIMPLE-IRA), it’s even more critical that you plan for withdrawals from these tax-deferred retirement vehicles. There are three areas where knowing the rules for traditional IRA distributions can make a big difference in how much […]
3 big TCJA changes affecting 2018 individual tax returns and beyond
When you file your 2018 income tax return, you’ll likely find that some big tax law changes affect you — besides the much-discussed tax rate cuts and reduced itemized deductions. For 2018 through 2025, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) makes significant changes to personal exemptions, standard deductions and the child credit. The degree […]
2 major tax law changes for individuals in 2019
While most provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) went into effect in 2018 and either apply through 2025 or are permanent, there are two major changes under the act for 2019. Here’s a closer look. 1. Medical expense deduction threshold With rising health care costs, claiming whatever tax breaks related to health […]
Mutual funds: Handle with care at year end
As we approach the end of 2018, it’s a good idea to review the mutual fund holdings in your taxable accounts and take steps to avoid potential tax traps. Here are some tips. Avoid surprise capital gains Unlike with stocks, you can’t avoid capital gains on mutual funds simply by holding on to the shares. […]
Donate appreciated stock for twice the tax benefits
A tried-and-true year end tax strategy is to make charitable donations. As long as you itemize and your gift qualifies, you can claim a charitable deduction. But did you know that you can enjoy an additional tax benefit if you donate long-term appreciated stock instead of cash? 2 benefits from 1 gift Appreciated publicly traded […]
Charitable IRA rollovers may be especially beneficial in 2018
If you’re age 70½ or older, you can make direct contributions — up to $100,000 annually — from your IRA to qualified charitable organizations without owing any income tax on the distributions. This break may be especially beneficial now because of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) changes that affect who can benefit from the […]
Play your tax cards right with gambling wins and losses
If you gamble, be sure you understand the tax consequences. Both wins and losses can affect your income tax bill. And changes under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) could also have an impact. Wins and taxable income You must report 100% of your gambling winnings as taxable income. The value of complimentary goodies […]
Transitioning Your Business
Please note that CPE is not available for webinars on-demand. CPE is available for live events only. Transitioning from your business to retirement, or to another project, is a normal part of the lifecycle of an entrepreneur. That’s why you need to know your options when it comes to cashing in on all your hard […]
Year End Tax Planning: Expiring tax breaks for businesses may merit action now
Although tax legislation signed into law this past January made a wide variety of tax breaks permanent, it extended several valuable breaks for businesses only through Dec. 31, 2013. It’s possible that some, or even all, of them could be extended again. But with the battle in Washington over tax reform, it’s difficult to predict […]