Many people assume tax planning is the same as tax preparation, but the two are quite different. Let’s take a closer look: What is Tax Preparation? Tax preparation is the process of preparing and filing a tax return. Generally, it is a one-time event that culminates in signing your return and finding out whether you…

Filing your tax return promises to be just as complicated as always – especially if you received stimulus payments or advance child tax credit payments. However, there are steps that taxpayers can take right now to make sure their tax filing experience goes smoothly in 2022. Let’s take a look at four things taxpayers can…

Here’s what business owners need to know about tax changes for 2021. Standard Mileage Rates The standard mileage rate in 2021 is 56 cents per business mile driven. Health Care Tax Credit for Small Businesses Small business employers who pay at least half the premiums for single health insurance coverage for their employees may be eligible for…

As we close out the year and get ready for tax season, here’s what individuals and families need to know about tax provisions for 2021. Personal Exemptions Personal exemptions are eliminated for tax years 2018 through 2025. Standard Deductions The standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return in 2021 is $25,100. For singles and married…

Cost of living adjustments affecting dollar limitations for pension plans and other retirement-related items for 2022 are as follows: 401(k), 403(b), 457 plans, and Thrift Savings Plan. Contribution limits for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $20,500, up from $19,500. The catch-up contribution…

QuickBooks has a new set of tools that can help you deal with what is probably one of your most pressing problems: getting customers to pay. Here’s how to use this new feature: Creating Your Groups QuickBooks has added an entry in the Customers menu to take you to these new tools. Go to Customers | Payment Reminders…

Can you point your company in the direction of financial success, step on the gas, and then sit back and wait to arrive at your destination? Probably not. While you may wish it was that easy, the truth is that you can’t let your business run on autopilot and expect good results. Every business owner…

Individuals with significant assets should take advantage of proven tax strategies such as gifting and direct payments to educational institutions to transfer wealth to heirs tax-free, as well as minimize estate taxes. Additional opportunities are available as well, thanks to low interest rates and a volatile stock market. Let’s take a look at some of…

An Identity Protection PIN is a six-digit number eligible taxpayers get to help prevent their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number from being used to file fraudulent federal income tax returns. This number helps the IRS verify a taxpayer’s identity and accept their tax return. The Get An IP PIN tool enables anyone with an…

Starting your own business is an exciting prospect, but there is more to it than simply writing a business plan. Understanding the tax responsibilities of starting a business venture can save taxpayers money and help set them up for success. That’s where a tax professional can help. Here is what you need to know before…