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Showing all 14 results

  • 4 pillars of effective virtual law practices

    Spring 2023
    Newsletter: Law Firm Management

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: With the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic seemingly behind us, some attorneys and law firms have gladly returned to the office. But others, having been forced to conduct much of their work remotely for the first time, have seen the virtues of virtual law practices. Such practices can produce numerous benefits if done right. This article reviews four steps that can help law firms improve their odds of finding success with a virtual practice, including drafting a new business plan, establishing formal processes, thinking about their clients’ experiences and investing in technology.

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  • Magarik v. Kraus USA, Inc. – Bad assumptions sink expert’s plumbing business valuation

    May / June 2021
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: Courts expect valuation experts to base their analyses on sound data and realistic assumptions. If they fail to do so, courts may disregard all or part of their conclusions. This article summarizes a recent statutory appraisal case from New York that highlights the importance of using reliable inputs when valuing a business. A sidebar explains why courts usually prefer objective, market-based valuation inputs over internally generated assumptions. Magarik v. Kraus USA, Inc., No. 606128-15 (Sup. Ct., Nassau Cty., April 28, 2020).

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  • Section 139 – How to provide your employees with tax-free COVID-19 relief

    January / February 2021
    Newsletter: Tax Impact

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in unemployment. And while people who have been furloughed or lost their jobs are among the hardest hit by the pandemic, those who remain employed have also experienced financial hardships. This article explains how Section 139 provides incentives for employers who wish to provide their employees with assistance. A sidebar details what qualifies as a “disaster.”

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  • Protect your exempt status in Election 2020

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: Nonprofits that are tax-exempt as 501(c)(3) organizations, including charities and churches, are barred from participating or intervening in any political campaign for or against a candidate for public office. Organizations that violate the prohibition risk losing their tax-exempt status and could find themselves on the hook for an excise tax. This article discusses the rules governing elections and some politics-related activities and expenses that may be permissible depending on the facts and circumstances. A sidebar explains how “substantial” lobbying is not permissible either.

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  • Investors, make your tax-related moves now

    Fall 2019
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: The investment portfolio is an area that’s ripe for examination when looking for ways to reduce an individual tax bill. Techniques such as harvesting capital losses are highly effective and can be implemented quickly. Investment decisions should never be driven by tax considerations alone. But if buying or selling a security makes financial sense, it pays to take taxes into account when timing investment moves. This article offers several strategies to consider. A sidebar discusses the wash sale rule, which prevents an investor from buying substantially identical securities within 30 days before or after the sale — and techniques to mitigate a related risk.

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  • No excuses! Fraud prevention is easier than you may think

    Winter 2019
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: Defrauded nonprofits suffer a median loss of approximately $75,000 — an amount few can afford to lose. Fortunately, most fraud prevention measures are easy and inexpensive to implement. This article explains how nonprofits can foster an ethical culture, implement internal controls and generally discourage occupational theft. A sidebar lists fraud schemes that commonly affect nonprofits.

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  • Thinking about a Roth IRA conversion? Now may be the ideal time

    July / August 2018
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: Roth IRAs offer significant financial and estate planning benefits. If one has a substantial balance in a traditional IRA and is considering converting it to a Roth IRA, there may be no better time than now. This article details the reason why reduced income tax rates under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act reduces the cost of converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. A sidebar explains why it’s not too late to undo a 2017 Roth IRA conversion.

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  • What are the ingredients for telecommuting success?

    April / May 2017
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: Like their for-profit counterparts, nonprofits are increasingly allowing employees to telecommute. Done right, work-at-home arrangements, either full time or on an occasional basis, can pay off for both employers and employees. But the organization will need to be proactive to avoid some potential pitfalls. This article discusses some of the characteristics of successful telecommuting, including having a good policy in place and communicating well with remote employees. A sidebar looks at how to select the right people and positions for telecommuting.

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  • Taking the long view: Sustainability

    Fall 2015
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: In the wake of the most recent recession, many nonprofits are continuing to take a hard look at their sustainability over the long term. This article examines factors that affect sustainability directly, such as the diversity of an organization’s funding sources, and some indirect factors that have an impact on sustainability, including branding, outcome evaluation and contingency planning.

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  • Don’t let your compliance flag – Guidance on the Red Flags Rule

    Fall 2014
    Newsletter: Healthcare Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: The Federal Trade Commission requires many organizations — including some hospitals — to implement a written identity theft prevention program to, among other things, detect the “red flags” of identity theft in their day-to-day operations. Under the “Red Flags Rule,” covered hospitals must maintain a program that addresses both the secure collection and maintenance of patient data and the detection of warning signs that a crook is using someone else’s proprietary information. This article looks at what types of “covered accounts” can cause a hospital to be subject to the rule, along with what an identity theft prevention program should include. A sidebar discusses administration of such a program.

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  • When contributors receive something in return

    Spring 2012
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: “Quid pro quo” describes an arrangement in which a contributor gives money in exchange for something else. Whether it’s a supporter buying a ticket for a charity ball or an attendee at a charity auction successfully bidding on a hotel stay, such situations create an obligation for a nonprofit. This article describes the rules that determine whether a contribution is quid pro quo; how to value goods, services and auctioned items; and instances when quid pro quo reporting isn’t necessary.

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  • An IRS magnet – UBIT expense allocations draw scrutiny

    April / May 2011
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: The IRS is turning its attention to how nonprofit organizations calculate the tax they pay on unrelated business activities. The agency is concerned that many nonprofits may be improperly reporting losses related to these activities and thus may not be paying unrelated business income tax (UBIT). This article discusses the circumstances in which unrelated business income is taxable, explains the distinction between “directly connected” and “dual use” expenses, and shows two methods of allocating the latter. A sidebar describes what nonprofits must face if they inaccurately report expenses related to unrelated business activities.

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  • Powers of appointment – Why decide today when you can put it off until tomorrow?

    June / July 2008
    Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: One potential problem with wills, trusts and other traditional estate planning tools is that they force a person to make decisions about how his or her wealth will be distributed years or decades in advance. A power of appointment may solve that problem. It’s a document that authorizes another person, such as a family member or trusted advisor, to designate who will receive certain property. This article examines two types of powers: general and limited.

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  • Tax planning for 2008 and beyond – Looking forward by looking back

    January / February 2008
    Newsletter: Contractor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 839

    Abstract: As a new calendar year begins, construction business owners may want to look back to last year for some strategic planning cues. For example, the Small Business and Work Opportunity Tax Act of 2007 (SBWOTA) included more than $4.8 billion in tax breaks for businesses. This article demonstrates how SBWOTA offers contractors some opportunities to plan strategically for this year and beyond.

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