Focus

Showing 129–144 of 385 results

  • 7 steps for preventing elder financial abuse

    April / May 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 451

    Abstract: Older adults can be particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation. Many have assets that make them a target for the criminally minded. They may depend on a family member or caregiver for help remaining independent, and fear retaliation if they report misdeeds. This article offers seven steps that can help reduce the likelihood that an older person will be targeted, including writing checks to a legitimate financial institution rather than to a person and being alert to phone calls from imposters.

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  • Advise and consent – How can an advisory board help your family business?

    April / May 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 659

    Abstract: A family business can produce income and provide economic security for a family. But what happens when issues arise? The most successful family businesses know the importance of setting up an outside advisory board to help them navigate difficult times. This article explains how an advisory board functions and looks at some factors to consider when setting one up — such as the need to define the board’s purpose and goals. It also notes the importance of obtaining a mix of professionals from varying fields, demographics and backgrounds.

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  • FSAs, HRAs, HSAs: The alphabet soup of health care plans

    April / May 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 663

    Abstract: While tax-advantaged health care plans won’t make getting sick any easier, they can ease the sting of paying for medical expenses. Among the more common plans are Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSAs), Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). This article provides a brief rundown on these plans and how they can help offset some health care costs, depending on the circumstances.

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  • Understanding asset depreciation and tax breaks

    April / May 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 887

    Abstract: The cost of business assets with a useful life of more than one year generally can’t be immediately deducted; instead it must be depreciated over a period of years. But tax breaks are available that allow you to accelerate depreciation-related deductions. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed into law at the end of 2017, significantly enhances some of these breaks. This article provides an overview of these changes. A brief sidebar covers the enhanced deductions for business passenger vehicles.

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  • Preventive strategies: Cybersecurity guidelines for businesses

    February / March 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 430

    Abstract: Cybercrime — criminal activity that occurs through computer technology or the Internet — often involves theft of sensitive data such as intellectual property or financial information. Most security experts agree it’s impossible to eradicate all risk. But organizations can reduce the chances of being victimized. This article suggests some steps companies can take to limit cybercrime damage, such as knowing and protecting their networks, practicing safe online banking habits and fostering a culture of security.

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  • Claiming your parent as a dependent

    February / March 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: A 2016 AARP study found that caregivers spend an average of $7,000 in out-of-pocket costs related to caregiving. To reduce their tax bills and offset some of the costs incurred, some caregivers can claim an exemption for parents or relatives for whom they’re providing care as dependents. This article looks at some of the ins and outs of how to qualify for an exemption and notes that there are many technical nuances involved in determining how much caregivers can claim. A sidebar explains another tax benefit available for someone caring for a parent or other individual — the dependent care credit.

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  • Businesses’ bottom lines to benefit from new tax law

    February / March 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 647

    Abstract: The December 2017 passage of the largest overhaul of the federal income tax system since 1986 promises to bring many U.S. businesses some dramatic savings. Much has been made of the savings for corporations. The TCJA doesn’t overlook businesses that operate as partnerships, limited liability companies, S corporations and sole proprietorships, though. This article reviews several provisions of the new tax law and explains how it will affect businesses going forward.

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  • The new tax law: How will it affect individual taxpayers?

    February / March 2018
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 784

    Abstract: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was signed into law on December 22, 2017, contains some dramatic changes to the rules for individual taxpayers. Among other things, it drops or modifies many popular deductions and exclusions in favor of larger standard deductions. It also retains some unpopular taxes that had been on the chopping block. This article explains some of the provisions that will be most significant for individual taxpayers. A sidebar discusses the alternative minimum tax and estate tax.

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  • Tax benefits for organizations that accommodate individuals with disabilities

    Year End 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 447

    Abstract: By accommodating individuals with disabilities, a business may qualify for several tax credits and deductions. This brief article lists several, among them the disabled access credit, the barrier removal tax deduction and the Work Opportunity tax credit. In this instance, doing what’s right also can be financially beneficial to a business.

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  • How to make the most of your defined contribution plan

    Year End 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 630

    Abstract: Most of us will depend on defined contribution plans, such as 401(k) or 403(b) plans, to fund much of our retirement. It’s important for employees to understand how to make the most of the money they’re saving — both short- and long-term. This article suggests some tips for doing so, including staying on top of matching contributions, being aware of the vesting schedule and monitoring fees.

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  • The enemy within – How can you prevent employee fraud?

    Year End 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 627

    Abstract: Occupational, or employee, fraud is an ongoing hazard to businesses’ bottom lines. It can take several forms, from skimming, to billing schemes, to corruption, to asset misappropriation. This article discusses ways business owners and management can prevent employee fraud and reduce its impact, such as separating duties and using physical controls. The article suggests that taking some of these commonsense steps can reduce the potential for employee fraud.

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  • Turn over a new leaf – 6 financial planning steps for the new year

    Year End 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 884

    Abstract: Many Americans use the change in calendar as motivation to tackle poor financial habits. For instance, at the end of last year, 36% of Americans considered making financial resolutions, according to the 2017 New Year Financial Resolutions Study by Fidelity Investments. This article offers some steps to take to save more, pay down debt and spend less. The article notes that making and sticking to financial resolutions can have a tangible positive impact. A sidebar discusses the question of whether saving or paying down debt is the best strategy.

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  • Fast track helps small businesses resolve IRS issues quickly

    October / November 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 418

    Abstract: Small business owners and self-employed individuals who need to resolve factual or legal issues between themselves and the IRS can turn to the Fast Track Settlement (FTS) program in the IRS’s Small Business/Self-Employed Division. This article explains when cases are eligible for FTS and how the application process works.

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  • What’s the state of your state taxes?

    October / November 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 536

    Abstract: State and local taxes probably aren’t the first thing we think of when we hear the word “taxes,” but they can add up to a significant amount. This article discusses some state tax issues to be aware of, such as the fact that rates and rules, including how property is taxed, often differ from state to state. The article emphasizes that individuals need to understand the tax implications of living, and working, in particular states — especially if they plan to move or accept a job in a neighboring state.

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  • Tax issues can affect kids, too

    October / November 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 629

    Abstract: Taxes can affect minors as well as adults. This article suggests that parents should familiarize themselves with the tax implications of the “kiddie tax,” hiring their children, and setting up IRAs for working teens. The article discusses the ins and outs of the kiddie tax and offers some tax guidelines for parents who hire their own children. In addition, it notes that tax issues surrounding children can be tricky — so good financial advice is key.

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  • Attract qualified employees with a retirement plan

    October / November 2017
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 850

    Abstract: Retirement plans can benefit employers in multiple ways, from helping them attract and retain qualified employees to allowing tax deductions that can lower their companies’ tax bills. This article explains several types of retirement plans companies can offer employees. It also discusses the importance of ensuring plans remain in compliance with regulations, continuing to make required contributions, and keeping employees informed of changes in either their accounts or the plan.

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