Manny Trelles, CPA Tax Director In an effort to combat financial crimes, money laundering, and corruption, the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) was enacted by Congress. This significant piece of legislation brings a new level of transparency to businesses across all industries, especially those that are privately owned. As of January 1, 2024, millions of small businesses must file a Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOI Report) with the United States Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The required BOI Report includes information about their beneficial owners or those with “substantial control” over the company. Companies created or registered
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Archives for Industry News
The Tax Relief for American Families & Workers Act of 2024 (H.R. 7024)
Andrew Abeyta, CPA Tax Director Recently, the Senate approved (via an overwhelmingly favorable vote of 40-3) the “Tax Relief for American Families & Workers Act of 2024” which is now with congress for a tentatively scheduled end of January vote. Below is an outline of the Business Tax Provisions that are set to change as a result of this bill (pending any additional adjustments by congress). Please note that many of these potential tax provisions will expire on December 31, 2025. CURRENT LAW PROPOSED CHANGE VIA H.R. 7024 BUSINESS INTEREST LIMITATION IRC 163(j) Large businesses are
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ASU 2016-13 Current Expected Credit Loss Effective for Private Companies in 2023
Carissa DeLuca, CPA, CFE Audit Manager ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments-Credit Losses, which covers the Current Expected Credit Loss model (also known as CECL), is effective for private companies for years beginning after 12/15/2022. The accounting standard is not just applicable to mortgage banks, but can also impact trade receivables, loan receivables and reinsurance receivables and more for companies in all industries. Previously, US GAAP required an “incurred loss” methodology for credit losses and loss recognition once probable. Under the old method, historic loss percentages were a common and appropriate method of measurement of credit losses. CECL will require
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Decoding the Menu: Navigating Meals Expenses Tax Deductibility in 2023 – 50% vs. 100%
As 2023 unfolds, it’s crucial for business owners and professionals to understand the ever-evolving landscape of tax regulations, especially when it comes to meal expenses. The deductibility of these expenses can significantly impact your bottom line. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the specifics of meals expenses tax deductibility for 2023, distinguishing between the 50% and 100% deduction rules, and offering insights to help you make informed financial decisions. The 0% Deduction Rule: Treating clients to an entertainment event, such as concert tickets, sports games, etc., are now 0% deductible since this came into effect with the 2018
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Maximizing Your Finances: Year-End Tax Planning Tips for 2024
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to engage in financial housekeeping to ensure that you’re making the most of your money. Year-end tax planning is a crucial aspect of managing your finances, and with 2024 on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to implement strategic measures to optimize your tax situation. In this blog post, we’ll explore some key tips for year-end tax planning that can help you minimize your tax liability and maximize your financial well-being. Review Your Income and Expenses: Start your year-end tax planning by conducting a thorough review of your income and expenses
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Students Falling Victim to Fraud When Applying for Scholarships
by Carissa DeLuca, CPA, CFE Audit Manager School is in, and many high school seniors have started the daunting process of looking for scholarships to help with their future college plans. For many, this is an absolute necessity which has made space for opportunistic fraudsters. Here are some fraud red flags students and parents should look out for: Application fees for scholarships, especially paid via Zelle, Venmo or Cash App Upfront fees to guarantee financial aid Emails, texts or letters requiring personal information (including social security number, bank information, etc.) Offers for low interest student loans based on
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Importance of Keeping Track of Adjusted Basis of Your Home
Thomas Kim, CPA Tax Director As a homeowner, understanding the concept of “adjusted basis” and keeping track of it is crucial for when it comes to reducing or even eliminating taxes related to the sale or disposition of your property. What is Adjusted Basis? The adjusted basis of your home is the original cost of the property adjusted for various factors. It serves as a reference point for calculating capital gains or losses when you sell or dispose of your home. The adjusted basis is not a static value; it changes over time based on certain events and adjustments.
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Tax Considerations for Expanding Operations Into Foreign Markets
Manny Trelles, CPA Tax Director United States persons (defined as any US citizen, permanent resident alien, entity organized under US laws, or any person in the US) who continue to seek and expand into foreign markets to maintain a competitive edge in their business should carefully consider the tax impact of foreign investment. A few of the considerations to keep in mind for international tax purposes are as follows: Foreign Entity Structure US persons who have established foreign legal structures or operations should consider both local (foreign) and US tax implications. Our firm can connect you with a qualified
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Prepare for the Estate and Gift Tax Sunset Now
Greg Lambourne, Esq Senior Planning Consultant Nancy Van Lanen, CTFA, EA Estate & Trust Tax Director Every taxpayer in the United States is subject to certain transfer taxes for gifting away wealth during their life or at their death. However, each taxpayer is granted a “lifetime exemption amount” so they can make limited tax-free gifts. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act increased this lifetime exemption amount to an unprecedented $12.92 million for 2023, but this large exemption amount will expire and be reduced by half at the end of 2025. The IRS says this is a “use it
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Tax Guidance on Crypto and Virtual Currency
Manny Trelles, CPA Tax Manager Recently, the IRS issued additional guidance on crypto and virtual currency. The guidance addressed concerns regarding the timing of income recognition, tax basis, and clarification on terms in cryptocurrency transactions. Cryptocurrency is a type of virtual currency that uses cryptography to secure transactions that are digitally recorded on a distributed ledger, such as a blockchain. Virtual currency is a digital representation of value only available in electronic form. Cryptocurrency and income recognition A taxpayer who provides goods or services and receives an airdrop or payment in virtual currency has taxable income equal to the
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