6 key tax Q&As for 2021
Mon, Jan 4, 2021

Now’s a good time for taxpayers to familiarize themselves with pertinent tax-related amounts that may or may not be changing in 2021 because of inflation. This article poses six key questions about such amounts, including those related to retirement planning and the itemized deduction.

Business bartering is taxable
Mon, Jan 4, 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many cash-challenged businesses have bartered for goods and services instead of paying dollars for them. This article discusses the tax impact of bartering and explores membership in a barter exchange.

Are you at risk for investment fraud?
Mon, Jan 4, 2021

Perpetrators of investment fraud know how to push the right psychological buttons to entice their “marks” to buy worthless or nonexistent securities. This article explains how to recognize and mitigate risk by asking the right questions, performing some research and consulting with trusted advisors.

Twice as nice: The temporary gift tax break
Mon, Jan 4, 2021

 Wealthier individuals should bear in mind that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act temporarily doubled the federal gift and estate tax exemption through 2025. This brief article provides specifics on the dollar amounts involved and explains why there’s no reason to fear a “clawback.”

Tax calendar
Mon, Jan 4, 2021

This calendar notes important tax deadlines for the first quarter of 2021.

What’s your taxpayer filing status?
Tue, Dec 1, 2020

For many, December 31 means a New Year’s celebration. From a tax perspective, however, it should mean thinking about which filing status you will use for that year’s tax return. This article reviews the five statuses. A sidebar looks at whether a married person can file as a “head of household.”

Intrafamily loans and a family bank
Tue, Dec 1, 2020

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have family members who are struggling financially. For those with wealth to share, making an intrafamily loan or establishing a family bank could be a way to help. This article explains the importance of carefully structured intrafamily loans and why a family bank might be a logical step.

Handle mutual funds carefully at year end
Tue, Dec 1, 2020

As the end of 2020 draws near, investors should take the time to review any mutual fund holdings in their taxable accounts and take steps to avoid potential tax traps. This article offers helpful tips such as avoiding capital gains surprises and being careful about buying and selling.

Businesses should review sales tax laws
Tue, Dec 1, 2020

Most states with a sales tax have enacted “economic nexus” laws that expand the reach of their sales tax collection activities beyond their borders. This article urges businesses to reassess their sales-tax compliance obligations, especially as online transactions soar because of the COVID-19 crisis.