Let’s say your company wants to commemorate the long career of a retiring employee instrumental in its success. It hosts an evening celebration that culminates with the presentation of a plaque and an expensive gift. What are the tax implications? Generally, such “employee recognition awards,” also called “achievement awards,” are tax-deductible for employers and tax-free for […]
You’re probably knowledgeable about the FICA tax, which was established by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act, and is paid by both employers and employees through payroll deductions. FICA tax includes a Social Security and Medicare portion. Less is likely known about the FUTA tax, authorized by the Federal Unemployment Tax Act. This unemployment insurance tax […]
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a new final rule that’s slated to expand the number of workers who are eligible for overtime pay under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). It’s expected to affect four million workers. The rule, which dramatically increases the salary threshold for so-called exempt workers, is […]
Business owners are rightly urged to develop succession plans so their companies will pass on to the next generation, or another iteration of ownership, in a manner that best ensures continued success. Ideally, the succession plan you develop for your company will play out over a long period that allows everyone plenty of time to […]
There are many rewards for taking care of an elderly relative. They may include feeling needed, making a difference in the person’s life and allowing the person to receive quality care. In addition, you could also be eligible for tax breaks. Here’s a rundown of four of them: Medical expenses. If the individual qualifies as […]
Are you planning to take a business trip this summer? If your destination is known for its cultural or recreational attractions, you might want to combine some leisure with your business activities. You still may be able to enjoy plenty of tax benefits from the trip — if you stick to a strict tax itinerary. The […]
For years, the tax code has offered an incentive for employers to provide child care to their employees in the form of the Section 45F child care tax credit. But the credit is rarely claimed, according to the Congressional Research Service. Employers that qualify for the credit could significantly cut their tax bills, while simultaneously boosting […]
Businesses have long been advised to engage in active dialogues with their customers and prospects. The problem was, historically, these interactions tended to take a long time. Maybe you sent out a customer survey and waited weeks or months to gather the data. Or perhaps you launched a product or service and then waited anxiously […]
Let’s say you own one or more vacant lots. The property has appreciated greatly and you’re ready to sell. Or maybe you have a parcel of appreciated land that you want to subdivide into lots, develop them and sell them off for a big profit. Either way, you’ll incur a tax bill. For purposes of […]
Homeowners have long been rewarded with favorable tax treatment for making energy-efficient improvements. The Inflation Reduction Act, enacted in 2022, expands the tax credit for qualified energy-efficient improvements to help subsidize home energy audits, which can result in even more savings in your utility bills. Recent IRS guidance sheds some light on the credit. Overview The […]