766
Showing all 8 results
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Tax Court: Trust can materially participate in a business
July / August 2015
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: In a landmark 2014 case, the U.S. Tax Court opened the door to significant tax savings for certain trusts. In Frank Aragona Trust v. Commissioner, the court held that a trust can materially participate in a trade or business and even qualify as a “real estate professional.” This article explains the ruling and how it affects estate plans that include trusts that own real estate or other passive business interests.
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Defenses up! — Are you doing all you can to prevent fraud?
Winter 2013
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: When it comes to fraud, employees are a natural culprit because they have the most immediate access to funds and materials. Fortunately, there are steps companies can take to reduce the chances of fraud. This article mentions some basic steps and shows how forensic accountants can be useful. A sidebar describes several key functions of manufacturing and distribution companies that are particularly vulnerable to employee fraud and, thus, demand special attention.
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Customer privacy policies can help ward off wrongdoing
Fall 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: It’s surprising how many dealer management systems allow carte blanche access to customer files. This is an open invitation to identity theft. This article shows how to implement important safeguards — whether physical or online — and how to properly retain or dispose of data. A sidebar discusses a situation in which a mortgage broker paid a significant fine for improperly disposing of sensitive customer records; dealers have access to similar information and should take heed.
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Is the manufacturers’ deduction a worthy construction project?
September / October 2012
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: Like completing a construction project, claiming the manufacturers’ deduction calls for a solid foundation (of documentation) and an intricate infrastructure (of calculations). But the effort may be well worth it. This article explains that the deduction isn’t just for manufacturers — it also applies to domestic production gross receipts (DPGR) derived from constructing or erecting buildings or other real property, as well as from substantial renovations of real property. But claiming the deduction is complicated, so the article goes on to discuss considerations that must be addressed — ideally, by a tax advisor.
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Privacy, please! — Keep family matters out of the public eye by avoiding probate
February / March 2012
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: Although probate can be time consuming and expensive, perhaps its biggest downside is that it’s public — anyone who’s interested can find out the details of an estate and its distribution. It can also draw unwanted attention from disgruntled family members who may challenge the disposition of assets, as well as from other unscrupulous parties. The good news is that, by implementing the right estate planning strategies, it’s possible to keep much or even all of an estate out of probate. This article shows how, while a sidebar notes that a living trust can be an effective tool for larger estates to avoid probate.
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What to consider when naming retirement plan beneficiaries
March / April 2011
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: Income and estate tax ramifications are among the most important factors to consider when choosing retirement plan beneficiaries. This article explores those ramifications, and shows the advantages/disadvantages of choosing a spouse vs. someone else as a beneficiary, including a trust or charity.
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Cost segregation – Is it time to study?
Summer 2010
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: In a down economy, when dealers struggle to find ways to reduce costs, they might want to consider a cost segregation study, which allows businesses that have constructed, bought, expanded or remodeled real estate to speed up depreciation-related tax deductions. This article shows how a cost segregation study works, the kinds of experts needed to carry it out, and the tax savings that might be expected.
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Discounts for lack of marketability – 4 FAQs on these critical valuation adjustments
Winter 2008
Newsletter: Valuation Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 766
Abstract: One of the most significant — and subjective — valuation adjustments is the discount for lack of marketability (DLOM). This article answers four frequently asked questions regarding this critical valuation adjustment. (Updated 11/14/12)