865

Showing 1–16 of 19 results

  • Crime fighting – How new technology can help detect occupational fraud

    Spring 2021
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: New technologies can more efficiently analyze a dealership’s unstructured data (emails, instant messages and social media posts) as it seeks to uncover occupational fraud. This article explains how natural language processing works and its potential in identifying weaknesses in internal controls and unearthing fraudulent behavior before it’s too late. A short sidebar highlights some eye-popping fraud numbers from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ 2020 Report to the Nations.

    Read More

  • Crime fighting – How new technology can help detect occupational fraud

    May / June 2021
    Newsletter: Dealer Insights

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: New technologies can more efficiently analyze a dealership’s unstructured data (emails, instant messages and social media posts) as it seeks to uncover occupational fraud. This article explains how natural language processing works and its potential in identifying weaknesses in internal controls and unearthing fraudulent behavior before it’s too late. A short sidebar highlights some eye-popping fraud numbers from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ 2020 Report to the Nations.

    Read More

  • 5 steps for surviving tough economic times

    Summer 2020
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Lessons from past economic downturns give nonprofits a roadmap for surviving a recession or depression. This article discusses steps to take, including evaluating one’s financial position promptly, communicating needs clearly with those who can help, and considering alternative funding sources. A sidebar discusses the considerations involved in determining the right staffing decisions.

    Read More

  • CARES Act increases charitable donation deduction opportunities

    Summer 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: One way the CARES Act is trying to help during the COVID-19 crisis is by increasing available tax deductions this year for individuals and businesses contributing to charity. This article explains the basics of donation deductions and describes how the Act makes four significant liberalizations to the charitable deduction rules. A sidebar highlights retirement plan distributions that may be affected by the legislation.

    Read More

  • Rental real estate – Determining if a property is a business or an investment

    Spring 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: If you own rental real estate, its classification as a trade or business rather than an investment can have a big impact on your tax bill. The distinction is even more important now considering the 20% qualified business income (QBI) deduction for certain sole proprietors and pass-through entity owners. This article provides a brief overview of the deduction and rental real estate guidance related to it. A sidebar spotlights the IRS definition of “real estate professional” as it relates to this tax matter.

    Read More

  • How to get the most out of your financial statements

    January / February 2020
    Newsletter: Dealer Insights

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Improving financial performance is a top priority for dealership owners. CPA-prepared financial statements can help by identifying financial and operational deficiencies and discovering areas for cutting costs and generating sales. To reap these benefits, dealers must learn how to glean the information that will be most valuable. This article discusses how to examine the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows. A sidebar highlights common areas where dealerships may improperly report financial information.

    Read More

  • How to get the most out of your financial statements

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Improving financial performance is a top priority for dealership owners. CPA-prepared financial statements can help by identifying financial and operational deficiencies and discovering areas for cutting costs and generating sales. To reap these benefits, dealers must learn how to glean the information that will be most valuable. This article discusses how to examine the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows. A sidebar highlights common areas where dealerships may improperly report financial information.

    Read More

  • Vendor reviews: A valuable fraud prevention tool

    November / December 2018
    Newsletter: Dealer Insights

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Performing vendor reviews can help ensure that both an auto dealership and its vendors are still benefiting from the arrangements. In addition, it can uncover possible vendor fraud. This article highlights types of fraudulent schemes involving vendors and provides guidelines for a comprehensive vendor review. A sidebar provides key questions a dealership should ask during a vendor review.

    Read More

  • 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.

    Read More

  • Be aware of real estate fraud schemes

    October / November 2017
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Fraudulent appraisals, corrupt mortgage brokers and straw buyers all play a role in real estate fraud. Lenders need to be on their toes to prevent bad real estate loans. This article offers an overview of the types of schemes that crooked borrowers might use to defraud financial institutions, including document forgery, inflated appraisals, equity skimming and flipping. A sidebar notes some warning signs associated with fraudulent loan applications.

    Read More

  • Powers of attorney: Springing vs. nonspringing

    May / June 2015
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Estate planning typically focuses on what happens to a person’s children and assets when he or she dies. But it’s equally important (some might say more important) that a person have a plan for making critical financial and medical decisions if he or she becomes incapacitated. A crucial component of this plan is the power of attorney (POA). This article defines a POA and explains the difference between a springing and nonspringing POA. A sidebar explains the difference between a health care power of attorney and a living will.

    Read More

  • Add “un” to restricted – Freeing up funds to pay operating expenses

    Winter 2015
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Selling prospective donors on unrestricted contributions isn’t always easy. A few profligate — and well-publicized — nonprofits, not to mention campaigns against administrative “waste” by nonprofit watchdog groups, have made donors sensitive to the issue. But such funds are necessary to pay salaries, utility bills and other operational expenses. This article discusses how nonprofit fundraisers and boards can raise unrestricted funds, and even convert already-committed restricted funds to unrestricted use. A sidebar notes the effectiveness of personal appeals in fundraising.

    Read More

  • Think of valuation first when writing buy-sell agreements

    January / February 2015
    Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Buy-sell agreements protect business owners from unexpected events. They can also be important when owners disagree and want to sell their interests — or buy out a difficult partner. Too often valuation issues take the backseat to legal issues, leading to irreconcilable differences when the agreement comes into play. Whether owners are deciding on a current buyout price, purchasing insurance coverage for key shareholders or planning future buyout terms, an accurate valuation is imperative. This article provides a definition of value and looks at the three valuation methods used. It also notes the importance of updating the agreement over time.

    Read More

  • Fiscal oversight: Is your board making the grade?

    Summer 2014
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Nonprofits may not face the same government regulations or public scrutiny as for-profit public companies do, but that doesn’t mean they can afford to get slack about financial governance. Donors, watchdog groups and the media are paying increased attention, and many nonprofits now have both finance and audit committees. This article discusses the role they play and how best to staff them. A sidebar looks at the different responsibilities of finance and audit committees.

    Read More

  • Don’t forget repairs and maintenance – Skimping on routine upkeep ultimately costs more

    October / November 2013
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 865

    Abstract: Fixed assets are often pledged as loan collateral. So lenders have a vested interest in making sure they’re adequately maintained. This article discusses how to get a closer look at how clients keep house, starting with the fixed asset register and moving on to the formal repairs and maintenance schedule. It also looks at due diligence and benchmarking, while a sidebar discusses when it’s smarter to replace a broken or worn asset, rather than to repair or maintain it.

    Read More

  • 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.”

    Read More