TXI
Showing 241–256 of 384 results
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Tax Tips – Watch out for unscrupulous payroll providers
November / December 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 413
Abstract: This issue’s “Tax Tips” notes why it’s necessary to watch out for payroll providers who may be unscrupulous. It looks at recent IRS clarification regarding meal and entertainment deductions, explaining which party, in the context of an employer-employee or customer–independent contractor relationship, will be subject to a 50% limitation on the deduction. And it discusses a Tax Court case involving dependency exemptions — a case that demonstrates the importance of filing the relevant forms with the IRS.
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Don’t stop giving – Lifetime gifts remain a smart estate planning strategy
November / December 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 641
Abstract: Lawmakers may have made high gift and estate tax exemptions “permanent,” but this simply means that no expiration date has been set. Congress could still reduce the exemptions down the road. But, in any event, and regardless of one’s net worth, gifting continues to offer several tax benefits and can provide some insurance against future tax law changes. This article describes how a lifetime gifting program can be beneficial not only in regard to gift and estate taxes, but income taxes as well.
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The AMT: Treacherous waters are waiting to trap you
November / December 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 640
Abstract: For years, Congress repeatedly went through the motions of temporarily patching the alternative minimum tax (AMT), with the goal of limiting the number of taxpayers who were liable to pay it. At the beginning of 2013, they made the AMT patch permanent. But even with it, many taxpayers will fall into the AMT “trap.” This article examines how the AMT works, who might be vulnerable to it, and how to plan for it so as to avoid or minimize its impact.
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Making the right entity choice in today’s tax environment
November / December 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 859
Abstract: From a tax perspective, pass-through structures — such as limited liability companies (LLCs), S corporations and partnerships — have been the preferred business entity choice in recent years. But increases in individual income tax rates have made the decision whether to convert to a C corporation a closer call. And if lawmakers reduce the federal corporate tax rate, C corporations may become more attractive. This article discusses the recent tax law changes and their effect on the tax efficiency of C corporations, while a sidebar looks at the advantages of S corporations.
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Tax Tips – Is time running out for GRATs?
September / October 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 408
Abstract: This issue’s “Tax Tips” explains why the benefits of grantor-retained annuity trusts (GRATs) might soon be more limited; enhanced tax benefits, due to expire at the end of the year, for conservation easements; and why it can be dangerous to use self-directed IRAs to hold “alternative” investments, such as real estate or closely held business interests.
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Be careful with intrafamily loans
September / October 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 653
Abstract: When a family member experiences hard times, other family members might be quick to lend them whatever amount they need. But Uncle Sam keeps an eye on such transactions. Why? Because they might not, for tax purposes, be loans. The IRS might consider them taxable gifts. This article explains the difference between loans and gifts, and why it’s important to charge enough interest to avoid the tax consequences of making below-market loans.
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Year end tax planning – 5 strategies you shouldn’t overlook
September / October 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 598
Abstract: As the end of 2013 approaches, it’s time to think about year end tax planning. This article offers five often overlooked strategies that should be considered. They involve credit cards, traditional IRAs, securities, withholding and mutual fund investments.
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Play or pay: Are you ready for the new health care rules?
September / October 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 865
Abstract: Beginning on Jan. 1, 2015, the health care act requires “large” employers to either: 1) provide “minimum essential” health care coverage to full-time employees that’s “affordable” and of at least “minimum value,” or 2) risk substantial penalties. This article offers an overview of the play-or-pay rules, noting who qualifies as a “large” employer and the financial penalties for those that choose not to provide such coverage. A sidebar explains how the act defines “affordable” and “minimum value.”
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Tax Tips – Play or pay: Is your business ready?
July / August 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 407
Abstract: This issue’s “Tax Tips” looks at IRS substantiation requirements for supporting a charitable deduction, and discusses the simplified home office deduction. It also explains why this year may be a good time to buy qualified small business stock (QSBS).
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Are higher taxes taking a bite out of your trusts?
July / August 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 557
Abstract: Tax increases for the affluent have dominated headlines this year. But it’s important to not overlook the impact of higher taxes on trusts. The income thresholds for trusts are extremely low, so it’s important for taxpayers at all income levels to consider the potential impact on their estate plans. This article offers three strategies to help soften the blow of higher taxes on trust income.
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The ins and outs of multistate taxation
July / August 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 637
Abstract: To incur taxation in another state, a business must have a substantial connection with that state — commonly known as “nexus.” Historically, that meant a physical presence in the state. But, in today’s digital age, many companies do business beyond their state’s borders. And with budgets tight and the economy uncertain, many states are renewing efforts to maximize tax revenue from out-of-state businesses. This article discusses how judges and legislators have been addressing the wide array of laws.
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Capital gains after ATRA: Why planning is so critical
July / August 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 906
Abstract: The American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA) raises the top capital gains rate to 20% but, with the new 3.8% investment tax and the itemized deduction limit and personal exemption phaseout (both of which were reinstated this year), the effective rate for high-income taxpayers is closer to 25%. This article offers eight strategies that take the sting out of higher capital gains rates. A sidebar offers an overview of 2013 tax thresholds.
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Tax Tips – Charitable deductions: Form over substance
May / June 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 400
Abstract: In this issue, “Tax Tips” takes a look at IRS substantiation requirements to support a charitable deduction; a simpler way of claiming a home office deduction; and why it can be beneficial to invest in qualified small business stock (QSBS) before the end of this year.
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Can you afford long-term care? Consider trading in a life insurance policy for LTC coverage
May / June 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 551
Abstract: One of the greatest threats to the financial security of one’s retirement as well as to the achievement of estate planning goals may be a nursing home stay or some other form of long-term care. And, while long-term care (LTC) insurance can be a great way to protect wealth against this risk, it can be expensive. One option for funding an LTC policy is to “trade in” a life insurance policy or annuity contract that’s no longer needed. This article examines what’s involved.
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Follow the rules when you refinance a home
May / June 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 656
Abstract: Refinancing a home may be a great idea when mortgage rates are low. But, while it’s smart to look for the best deal, it’s also wise to understand the tax consequences. This article looks at tax issues involving acquisition indebtedness, straight replacement vs. cash-out refinancing, and the amortization of points.
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It’s time for mid-year tax planning – ATRA offers businesses many opportunities
May / June 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 921
Abstract: Under the recently enacted American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA), businesses have many tax-saving opportunities, some of which might not be available next year. ATRA provides other opportunities, as well. This article discusses depreciation and expensing; research credits; and setting up a nonqualified deferred compensation plan. (A sidebar notes the importance of meeting IRS timing requirements for such a plan.)