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March 2024

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Tax Due Dates


Any accounting, business or tax advice contained in this communication, including attachments and enclosures, is not intended as a thorough, in-depth analysis of specific issues, nor a substitute for a formal opinion, nor is it sufficient to avoid tax-related penalties. If desired, we would be pleased to perform the requisite research and provide you with a detailed written analysis. Such an engagement may be the subject of a separate engagement letter that would define the scope and limits of the desired consultation services.


Retirement Saving Options for Your Small Business

If you’re looking for a retirement plan for yourself and your employees but worried about the financial commitment and administrative burdens involved, there are some options to consider. One possibility is a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP). This plan, which comes with relative ease of administration and the discretion to make or not make annual contributions, is especially attractive for small businesses.

There’s still time to see tax savings on your 2023 tax return by establishing and contributing to a 2023 SEP, right up to the extended due date of the return. For example, if you’re a sole proprietor who extends your 2023 Form 1040 to October 15, 2024, you have until that date to establish a SEP and make the initial contribution, which you can then deduct on your 2023 return.

SEP Involves Easy Setup

You can set up a SEP easily using the IRS model SEP, Form 5305-SEP. This form, which doesn’t have to be filed with the IRS, satisfies the SEP requirements. (You can opt for an individually designed SEP instead, depending on your needs.)

As the employer, you’ll get a current income tax deduction for contributions you make on behalf of your employees. Your employees won’t be taxed when the contributions are made but will be taxed later when distributions are made, usually at retirement.

The maximum deductible contribution that you can make to a SEP-IRA, and that can be excluded from taxable income, is the lesser of: 1) 25% of compensation, or 2) $69,000 for 2024 (up from $66,000 for 2023) per employee. Note, however, that if you, as the business owner, don’t receive a W-2 from the business (for instance, you’re an unincorporated sole proprietor), the calculation for the contribution to be made on behalf of yourself varies slightly. The deduction for your contributions to employees’ SEP-IRAs isn’t limited by the deduction ceiling applicable to an individual’s own contribution to a regular IRA.

Your employees control their individual SEP IRAs and the investments in them as well as the tax-deferred earnings. However, they can’t contribute.

There are other requirements you’ll have to meet to be eligible to establish and make contributions to a SEP. Essentially, all regular employees must elect to participate in the program, and contributions can’t discriminate in favor of highly compensated employees. But these requirements are minor compared to the bookkeeping and other administrative burdens connected with traditional qualified retirement and profit-sharing plans.

SEPS don’t require the detailed records that traditional plans must maintain. Also, there are no annual reports to file with the IRS, and the recordkeeping that is required can be done by a trustee of the SEP-IRA, usually a bank or mutual fund.

Another Option: SIMPLEs

If your business has 100 or fewer employees, you may want to consider a Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE). An advantage is that employees can also contribute. A disadvantage is that you, as the employer, are required to make certain annual contributions. Also, a SIMPLE has more limitations on when it can be set up and when it can be contributed to than a SEP.

You establish a SIMPLE IRA for each eligible employee, generally making matching contributions based on amounts elected by participating employees under a qualified salary reduction arrangement. The SIMPLE is also subject to much less stringent requirements than traditional qualified retirement plans.

Another option: An employer can adopt a SIMPLE 401(k) plan, with similar features to a SIMPLE IRA. It’s not subject to the otherwise complex nondiscrimination rules that apply to regular 401(k) plans.

For 2024, SIMPLE employee deferrals are limited to $16,000 (up from $15,500 for 2023). Additional $3,500 catch-up contributions are also allowed for employees ages 50 and older.

More Information

Additional rules and limits apply to both SEPs and SIMPLEs. Contact the office for more information.

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Hiring? How to Benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit

If you’re a business owner or manager who is seeking to hire, you should be aware of the details of a valuable tax credit for hiring individuals from one or more targeted groups. Employers can qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is worth as much as $2,400 for most eligible employees (higher or lower for certain employees). The credit is limited to eligible employees who begin work for an employer before January 1, 2026.

Who is Eligible?

Generally, an employer is eligible for the WOTC only for qualified wages paid to members of a targeted group. These groups are:

  1. Qualified members of families receiving assistance under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program,
  2. Qualified veterans,
  3. Qualified ex-felons,
  4. Designated community residents,
  5. Vocational rehabilitation referrals,
  6. Qualified summer youth employees,
  7. Qualified members of families in the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP),
  8. Qualified Supplemental Security Income recipients,
  9. Long-term family assistance recipients, and
  10. Long-term unemployed individuals.

To claim the WOTC, an employer must first get certification that the person hired is a member of one of the targeted groups above. An employer can do so by submitting Form 8850, Pre-Screening Notice and Certification Request for the WOTC, to their state agency within 28 days after the eligible worker begins work.

You Must Meet Certain Requirements

There are several requirements to qualify for the credit. For example, each employee must have completed a specific number of hours of service for the employer. Also, the credit isn’t available for employees who are related to or who previously worked for the employer.

There are different rules and credit amounts for certain employees. The maximum credit available for first-year wages generally is $2,400 per employee. But it’s $4,000 for long-term family assistance recipients, and it’s $4,800, $5,600 or $9,600 for certain veterans. Additionally, for long-term family assistance recipients, there’s a 50% credit for up to $10,000 of second-year wages, resulting in a total maximum credit, over two years, of $9,000.

For summer youth employees, the wages must be paid for services performed during any 90-day period between May 1 and September 15. The maximum WOTC credit available for summer youth employees is $1,200 per employee.

An eligible employer claims the WOTC on its federal income tax return. The credit value is limited to the business’s income tax liability.

A Valuable Credit

There are additional rules and requirements. In some cases, employers may elect not to claim the WOTC. And in limited circumstances, the rules may prohibit the credit or require an allocation of it. However, for most employers hiring from targeted groups, the credit can be worthwhile. Contact the office with questions or for more information about your situation.

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Have You Recently Reviewed Your Life Insurance Needs?

At one time, life insurance played a much larger part in an estate plan than it does now. Why? Families would often use life insurance payouts to pay estate taxes. But with the federal gift and estate tax exemption at $13.61 million for 2024, far fewer families currently are affected by estate tax.

However, life insurance remains a powerful tool to help provide for your loved ones in the event of your death. The amount of life insurance that’s right for you depends on your personal circumstances, so it’s critical to review your life insurance needs regularly in light of changing circumstances.

Reasons to Reevaluate

In addition to watching for changes to the estate tax exemption amount, consider reevaluating your insurance coverage if you’re:

  • Buying a home or paying off a mortgage,
  • Getting married or divorced,
  • Having children,
  • Approaching retirement, or
  • Facing health issues.

The right amount of insurance depends on your family’s current and expected future income and expenses, as well as the amount of income your family would lose should you pass away. The events listed above can change the equation, so it’s a good idea to revisit your life insurance needs as you reach these milestones. For example, if you have kids, your current and future obligations are likely to increase significantly for expenses related not only to providing for their needs on a day-to-day basis but also potentially for childcare and college tuition.

As you get older, your expenses may go up or down, depending on your circumstances. For example, as your children become financially independent, they’ll no longer rely on you for financial support.

On the other hand, your health care expenses may increase. When you retire, you’ll no longer have a salary, but you may have new sources of income from retirement plans and Social Security. You may or may not have paid off your mortgage, student loans or other debts. And you may or may not have accumulated sufficient wealth to provide for your family.

Periodic Reassessment a Must

There are many factors that affect your need for life insurance, and these factors change over time. To make sure you’re not over- or underinsured, reassess your insurance needs periodically, especially when your life circumstances change. Also keep in mind that, absent Congressional action, the gift and estate tax exemption will drop to an inflation-adjusted $5 million in 2026. Contact the office for assessing whether you have an adequate amount of life insurance coverage.

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A Strategy to Raise Your Medical Expense Deduction

With a little planning, you may be able to boost your itemized medical expense deduction when you file your 2024 tax return next year. Only eligible expenses exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income are deductible. It’s not an easy hurdle to clear, short of a major medical disaster, which, of course, you want to avoid. But you can use a strategy called “bunching” medical expenses to exceed the 7.5% threshold.

Say, for example, that you’ve already scheduled surgery that will involve out-of-pocket expenses but you still fall short of the deductible threshold. Think about scheduling elective procedures, such as dental work or Lasik surgery, and making qualified purchases [Topic no. 502, Medical and dental expenses | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)] that will push you over the threshold for the year.

Remember, only the expenses over that amount and that aren’t covered by insurance or paid through a tax-advantaged account will be deductible. Contact the office for help running the numbers.

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Handling Large Cash Transactions

A reminder for businesses: Within 15 days of a $10,000 transaction, you must use IRS Form 8300 to report the transactions. If you file electronically, forms are delivered to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. Paper forms are submitted to the IRS.

You also generally should provide written statements to parties whose names you’ve reported by January 31 of the year following the transactions. However, if a transaction you report is suspicious, don’t provide a statement to the individual involved.

Although you aren’t required to file Form 8300 for cash transactions of less than $10,000, the IRS encourages you to report suspicious transactions of any amount.

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Erroneous Refund

Mistakes happen. What if you receive a refund from the IRS that you’re not entitled to? Or what if you receive one that’s more than you’re entitled to? How you must handle it depends on the details. A paper check refund should be voided and returned within 21 days of receipt to the address in the link below. But suppose you cashed the check. In that case, submit a personal check within 21 days to that address.

If the refund was by direct deposit, contact your bank to have them return the deposit. Also contact the IRS at the phone number in the link. Be aware that if the IRS intentionally changed your refund amount from what was on the return you filed, it will mail you a notice of explanation.

You can find more information here: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc161

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Upcoming Tax Due Dates

March 15

Calendar-year S corporations: File a 2023 income tax return (Form 1120-S) and provide each shareholder with a copy of Schedule K-1 (Form 1120S) or a substitute Schedule K-1 or file for an automatic six-month extension (Form 7004). Pay any tax due.

March 15

Calendar-year partnerships: File a 2023 income tax return (Form 1065 or Form 1065-B) and provide each partner with a copy of Schedule K1 (Form 1065) or a substitute Schedule K1 or request an automatic six-month extension (Form 7004).

March 15

Employers: Deposit Social Security, Medicare and withheld income taxes for February if the monthly deposit rule applies

March 15

Employers: Deposit nonpayroll withheld income tax for February if the monthly deposit rule applies.

April 1

Employers: Electronically file 2023 Form 1097, Form 1098, Form 1099 (other than those with an earlier deadline) and Form W-2G.

April 10

Individuals: Report March tip income of $20 or more to employers (Form 4070).


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5 Signs Your Bookkeeping Is Failing

Bookkeeping is the backbone of any successful business. It’s the process of recording, organizing, and managing financial transactions. When done right, it provides valuable insights into your company’s financial health and helps you make informed decisions. However, if your bookkeeping is failing, it can have serious consequences for your business. In this post, we’ll explore five signs that indicate your bookkeeping might be in trouble and what you can do to fix it.

1. Disorganized Records

One of the first signs that your bookkeeping is failing is if your financial records are disorganized. This can manifest in various ways, such as missing receipts, incomplete transaction logs, or messy spreadsheets. Disorganized records make it difficult to track income and expenses accurately, which can lead to errors in your financial reports.

Solution: Implement a systematic approach to record-keeping. Use accounting software to track transactions automatically and organize receipts digitally. Create a filing system for physical documents, and ensure all entries are logged consistently and promptly. Regularly reconcile your accounts to catch any discrepancies early on.

2. Inaccurate Financial Reports

Another red flag is when your financial reports are consistently inaccurate or unreliable. If your balance sheet doesn’t balance, or your profit and loss statement doesn’t reflect your actual financial performance, it’s a sign that your bookkeeping processes are failing to capture essential data accurately.

Solution: Review your bookkeeping processes and ensure all transactions are recorded correctly. Double-check entries for accuracy and completeness. Consider hiring a professional bookkeeper or accountant to review your financial reports periodically and provide insights into improving accuracy.

3. Cash Flow Problems

Poor bookkeeping can lead to cash flow problems, such as late payments, missed invoices, or unexpected expenses. If you find yourself struggling to pay bills on time or unable to forecast cash flow accurately, it’s likely due to deficiencies in your bookkeeping processes.

Solution: Monitor your cash flow regularly and identify any trends or patterns that could indicate underlying issues. Implement effective invoicing and payment tracking systems to ensure timely payments from customers and to suppliers. Create a cash flow forecast to anticipate future cash needs and plan accordingly.

4. Compliance Issues

Failure to maintain accurate financial records can result in compliance issues with tax authorities or regulatory bodies. If you’re consistently missing deadlines for tax filings or receiving penalties for non-compliance, it’s a clear indication that your bookkeeping practices are inadequate.

Solution: Stay informed about tax laws and regulatory requirements relevant to your business. Keep meticulous records of income, expenses, and deductions to support your tax filings. Consider hiring a tax professional or accountant to ensure compliance and provide guidance on tax planning strategies.

5. Lack of Financial Visibility

Finally, if you lack visibility into your company’s financial performance and are unable to make informed decisions, it’s a sign that your bookkeeping is failing to provide meaningful insights. Without accurate and up-to-date financial information, you’re operating in the dark and risking the long-term success of your business.

Solution: Invest in financial reporting tools and software that provide real-time insights into your company’s finances. Regularly review key performance indicators (KPIs) such as profit margins, revenue growth, and debt-to-equity ratio to assess your business’ health. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to develop a comprehensive financial strategy.

Healthy Bookkeeping for a Healthy Business

Effective bookkeeping is essential for the success of any business. By recognizing the signs that your bookkeeping is failing and taking proactive steps to address them, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure the long-term financial health of your company. You can also consider working with a professional who can provide valuable insight into your bookkeeping processes and help you stay organized. By maintaining organized records, managing cash flow effectively, and gaining visibility into your finances, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and drive your business forward.

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Tips for Setting Your Personal Financial Goals

Setting financial goals is a crucial step toward securing your financial future and achieving long-term success. Whether you’re aiming to buy a house, start a business, or retire comfortably, having clear and achievable financial goals can provide you with direction and motivation. In this blog post, we’ll explore some valuable tips to help you set effective personal finance goals.

Understanding the Importance of Setting Financial Goals

Before diving into the tips for setting personal financial goals, it’s essential to understand why they are so important. Financial goals serve as a roadmap, guiding your financial decisions and actions. They provide clarity and direction, helping you prioritize your spending, saving, and investing efforts. Without clear goals, it’s easy to drift aimlessly, making it difficult to build wealth and achieve financial independence.

Reflect on Your Values and Priorities

The first step in setting personal financial goals is to reflect on your values and priorities. What matters most to you? Do you prioritize experiences over possessions? Are you focused on building wealth for retirement, or do you want to travel the world? Understanding your values will help you align your financial goals with what truly matters to you.

Set SMART Goals

SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. When setting financial goals, make sure they meet these criteria. For example, instead of saying, “I want to save more money,” a SMART goal would be, “I will save $10,000 for a down payment on a house within the next two years.” This goal is specific (saving $10,000), measurable (you can track your progress), achievable (within two years), relevant (towards buying a house), and time-bound.

Break Down Larger Goals Into Smaller Milestones

Large financial goals can be overwhelming, leading to procrastination or abandonment. Break down big goals into smaller, more manageable milestones. For instance, if your goal is to save $50,000 for retirement, break it down into yearly or monthly savings targets. Celebrating these smaller victories will keep you motivated and on track toward your larger objectives.

Prioritize Your Goals

Not all financial goals are created equal. Some may be more urgent or important than others. Prioritize your goals based on their significance and timeline. For example, paying off high-interest debt should take precedence over saving for a vacation. By prioritizing your goals, you can allocate your resources effectively and avoid spreading yourself too thin.

Be Realistic

While it’s important to dream big, it’s equally crucial to be realistic about your financial situation and capabilities. Setting overly ambitious goals can lead to frustration and disappointment. Assess your income, expenses, and savings potential realistically when setting your goals. It’s okay to aim high, but make sure your goals are within reach with diligent effort and planning.

Review and Adjust Regularly

Financial circumstances can change over time due to various factors such as job loss, unexpected expenses, or changes in income. Therefore, it’s essential to review your financial goals regularly and make adjustments as needed. Stay flexible and be willing to adapt your goals based on changing circumstances or priorities.

Taking Control of Your Financial Future

Setting personal financial goals is a crucial step toward achieving financial success and security. By following these tips and incorporating them into your financial planning process, you can set clear, achievable goals that align with your values and priorities. Remember to stay disciplined, track your progress, and adjust your goals as needed along the way. With dedication and perseverance, you can take control of your financial future and work towards building the life you desire.

The post Tips for Setting Your Personal Financial Goals first appeared on www.financialhotspot.com. Go to top

Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Tax Preparer

Tax season can be a daunting time for many individuals and businesses alike. With complex tax laws and regulations, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable and trustworthy tax preparer by your side. Whether you’re a first-time taxpayer or a seasoned business owner, selecting the right tax preparer is crucial for accurate filings and maximizing your returns. To help you make an informed decision, here are some key questions to ask when choosing your tax preparer.

Understanding the Importance of a Qualified Tax Preparer

Before delving into the questions you should ask potential tax preparers, it’s important to understand why selecting the right professional matters. Tax laws are continually evolving, and navigating through them requires expertise and experience. A qualified tax preparer can not only ensure compliance with the latest regulations but also identify potential deductions and credits to optimize your tax situation. Moreover, they can offer valuable advice on tax planning strategies to minimize your tax liabilities in the future.

1. What Are Your Qualifications and Credentials?

One of the first questions you should ask a potential tax preparer is about their qualifications and credentials. Ensure they have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) issued by the IRS, which is a requirement for anyone who prepares federal tax returns for compensation. Additionally, inquire about their educational background and whether they hold any relevant certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA). These credentials indicate that the preparer has undergone rigorous training and adheres to ethical standards.

2. Do You Have Experience Handling Tax Situations Similar to Mine?

Every taxpayer’s situation is unique, whether you’re an individual with various income sources or a business owner with complex financial transactions. It’s essential to choose a tax preparer who has experience dealing with situations similar to yours. Ask about their experience working with clients in your industry or with similar income levels and complexities. A preparer familiar with your specific circumstances is better equipped to identify potential deductions and credits that apply to you.

3. What Is Your Approach to Tax Planning and Compliance?

Beyond simply filling out tax forms, a competent tax preparer should offer comprehensive tax planning and compliance services. Inquire about their approach to tax planning and whether they proactively seek opportunities to minimize your tax liabilities legally. Additionally, ask how they ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations to avoid potential audits or penalties. A proactive and compliance-focused approach demonstrates a commitment to your financial well-being and peace of mind.

4. How Do You Determine Your Fees?

Understanding how your tax preparer charges for their services is essential for budgeting purposes. Some preparers may charge a flat fee, while others bill by the hour or based on the complexity of your tax situation. Clarify what services are included in their fees and whether there are any additional charges for amendments or consultations throughout the year. It’s also advisable to compare fees across multiple preparers to ensure you’re getting fair pricing for the services provided.

5. Can You Provide References or Client Testimonials?

Asking for references or client testimonials is a great way to gauge the reputation and reliability of a tax preparer. Reach out to past or current clients to inquire about their experiences working with the preparer. Ask about the quality of service, responsiveness to inquiries, and overall satisfaction with the results. Positive feedback from satisfied clients is a strong indicator of a trustworthy and competent tax preparer.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right tax preparer is a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on your financial health. By asking the right questions and conducting thorough research, you can ensure you’re entrusting your tax matters to a qualified and reputable professional. Remember to consider factors such as qualifications, experience, and approach to tax planning when making your decision. With the right tax preparer by your side, you can navigate tax season with confidence and peace of mind.

The post Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Tax Preparer first appeared on www.financialhotspot.com. Go to top

Options for Businesses Facing Tax Debt

Navigating tax debt can be a daunting challenge for any business owner. Whether you’re struggling to meet your tax obligations due to unexpected financial setbacks or facing penalties for past non-compliance, it’s essential to explore your options for resolving tax debt effectively. From negotiating payment plans to seeking professional assistance, there are several strategies you can consider to alleviate the burden of tax debt and regain financial stability.

Assessing Your Tax Liability

The first step in addressing tax debt is to assess your current tax liability accurately. Review your financial records and tax filings to identify any outstanding balances, penalties, or interest owed to the IRS or state tax authorities. Understanding the scope of your tax debt will help you develop a targeted strategy for addressing it and avoid any further escalation of penalties or legal action.

Negotiating Payment Plans

If you’re unable to pay your tax debt in full, you may be eligible for a payment plan or installment agreement with the IRS or state tax authorities. These arrangements allow you to pay off your tax debt over time in manageable installments, rather than in a lump sum. When negotiating a payment plan, be prepared to provide detailed financial information and demonstrate your ability to make regular payments. Timely communication and cooperation with tax authorities can increase your chances of securing a favorable payment plan that fits your financial circumstances.

Exploring Offer in Compromise

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is another option for businesses struggling with tax debt. This program allows eligible taxpayers to settle their tax liability for less than the full amount owed based on their ability to pay. To qualify for an OIC, you must demonstrate significant financial hardship or doubt as to the collectibility of the full tax debt. While an OIC can provide substantial relief for businesses facing overwhelming tax debt, it’s essential to carefully assess your eligibility and consult with a tax professional to navigate the application process effectively.

Seeking Penalty Abatement

In some cases, businesses may incur penalties for late filing, late payment, or other tax-related issues, exacerbating their tax debt burden. However, tax authorities may grant penalty abatement under certain circumstances, such as reasonable cause or first-time penalty relief. If you believe you qualify for penalty abatement, submit a formal request to the IRS or state tax authorities, providing supporting documentation and a persuasive explanation for why the penalties should be waived. While penalty abatement is not guaranteed, proactive advocacy and compliance can increase your chances of success.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Navigating tax debt can be complex and overwhelming, especially for businesses facing multiple tax and financial challenges. Consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified tax advisor, accountant, or tax attorney who specializes in business tax planning and resolution. These professionals can assess your unique situation, explore your options for resolving tax debt, and advocate on your behalf with tax authorities. With their expertise and guidance, you can develop a tailored strategy to address your tax debt effectively and regain financial stability.

Navigating Pathways to Tax Relief

Facing tax debt as a business owner can be stressful and overwhelming, but it’s essential to remember that you’re not alone. By assessing your tax liability, negotiating payment plans, exploring options such as Offer in Compromise and penalty abatement, and seeking professional assistance, you can take proactive steps to address your tax debt and regain control of your finances. With careful planning and strategic action, you can overcome tax challenges and position your business for long-term success.

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