876
Showing 1–16 of 20 results
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Labor burden rate – Ensure bids account for this critical metric
Summer 2023
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: The construction industry may be transforming itself technologically, but projects still depend on boots on the ground to get the job done. That’s why contractors need to maintain a constant awareness of how much they’re paying for labor and what effect that has on profitability. This article discusses how to calculate labor burden rate, a key indirect cost. A sidebar looks at another type of burden rate that tracks inventory costs.
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Labor burden rate – Ensure bids account for this critical metric
July / August 2023
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: The construction industry may be transforming itself technologically, but projects still depend on boots on the ground to get the job done. That’s why contractors need to maintain a constant awareness of how much they’re paying for labor and what effect that has on profitability. This article discusses how to calculate labor burden rate, a key indirect cost. A sidebar looks at another type of burden rate that tracks inventory costs.
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What method should you use to deduct business vehicle expenses?
February / March 2023
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Businesspeople who use their passenger cars, vans or pickup trucks for business driving can generally deduct expenses attributable to the use of those vehicles, just like one that’s owned by the business. But it’s important to note that they can deduct only the portion of their overall expenses that’s attributable to their business use. This article points out that there are two ways to arrive at a deduction for the current year — the actual expense method or the standard mileage rate. A sidebar presents an example of how the deduction might work.
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401(k) plan early access: How to avoid penalties
November / December 2022
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Early withdrawals from 401(k) plans are allowed under certain circumstances, but in most cases they’re subject to a 10% penalty — on top of ordinary income taxes. However, if you need to tap retirement funds early, it’s possible to avoid penalties in limited situations. This article looks at hardship withdrawals, the Rule of 55, taking a series of substantially equal periodic payments (SOSEPPs) and other options. A sidebar explains how a change in IRS guidelines makes taking SOSEPPs more attractive.
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You’ve received an inheritance: Now what?
May / June 2022
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: For those who’ve received, or will soon receive, a significant inheritance, it may be tempting to view it as “found money” that can be spent freely. But unless one’s current financial plan ensures that he or she will comfortably reach all their goals, it’s a good idea to have a plan for managing the newfound wealth. This article answers several questions that should be considered after receiving an inheritance. A brief sidebar explains how to handle an inherited retirement plan.
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Is it better for manufacturers to buy or lease equipment?
Fall 2021
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Manufacturing is an asset-intensive business, so deciding whether to buy or lease equipment or machinery is critical. This article reviews the advantages of both buying and leasing manufacturers should consider as they make this decision. It also covers what manufacturers need to know about the lease accounting rules. A short sidebar covers AICPA’s Financial Reporting Framework for Small- and Medium-Sized Entities.
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Lending in the age of COVID-19: Accounting for loan modifications
Winter 2021
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Loan modifications during the COVID-19 era create accounting challenges for banks, which must determine whether a particular modification constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (TDR). This article discusses the ins and outs of how a TDR is triggered and explains how the CARES Act provides temporary relief from the TDR accounting rules. It notes that, to enjoy that accounting relief, banks need to show that concessions were made as a result of the pandemic’s impact and not on account of financial difficulties caused by other factors.
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SLATs offer an estate planning safety net
July / August 2019
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Many people are taking advantage of the temporary increase to the gift and estate tax exemption amount by giving away substantial amounts of wealth gift-tax-free — either directly or in trust — during the next six-plus years, locking in the higher exemption amount. However, what if one is reluctant to give away substantial amounts of wealth now, for fear that he or she may need access to it down the road? One potential solution is a spousal lifetime access trust (SLAT). This article explains how a SLAT works and includes a sidebar on the “clawback” rule.
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Spotlight on marketability
July / August 2016
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Valuators attempt to quantify the time, costs and uncertainty of selling a business interest through the discount for lack of marketability (DLOM). This article answers some frequently asked questions about the DLOM. It also provides a table that summarizes recent empirical data that may be used to quantify this discount. Mandelbaum v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo 1995-255, June 12, 1995
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Nonqualified options – How to report stock sales
July / August 2015
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: The tax treatment of nonqualified stock options (NSOs) is quite simple. Unfortunately, filling out the IRS forms can be complicated — especially since recent rule changes went into effect. This article explains the ins and outs of NSOs. A sidebar explains how to correct previously reported basis.
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Roth or traditional: Which is better?
May / June 2015
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Roth IRAs allow taxpayers to withdraw contributions and earnings tax-free, if they meet certain requirements, so it’s no surprise that their popularity has soared in recent years. But one shouldn’t write off traditional IRAs and 401(k) accounts just yet. This article explains why, under certain circumstances, traditional accounts may generate more retirement income than their Roth counterparts. A sidebar discusses the possibility that the benefits of “backdoor” Roth IRAs may be eliminated.
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Definitely not: Patent rejected for indefiniteness
February / March 2015
Newsletter: Ideas on Intellectual Property Law
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: To satisfy the definiteness standard, a patent must provide objective boundaries that convey the invention’s scope to those skilled in the field with reasonable certainty. But how do courts make such a determination? This article discusses an infringement case in which a district court found the patents invalid because terms used in the patent claims’ language — “in an unobtrusive manner” and “does not distract” — were indefinite. The appeals court noted that, while terms of degree aren’t inherently indefinite, the ones used in this case were indeed too subjective. A sidebar explains how the simple use of the term “e.g.,” instead of “i.e.,” played a role in the outcome. Interval Licensing LLC v. AOL, Inc., Nos. 2013-1282, -1283, -1284, -1285, Sept. 10, 2014 (Fed. Cir.) Nautilus, Inc. v. Biosig Instruments, Inc., No. 13-369, June 2, 2014 (Supreme Court)
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It’s time to go SHOPping – How to navigate Small Business Health Options Program Marketplaces
October / November 2014
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Small companies have another option for providing workers with health insurance: the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace. This article explains the levels of plans that are available and the criteria that employers must meet to qualify. A sidebar notes that the Department of Health and Human Services has allowed some states to delay implementation of “employee choice” in their SHOP Marketplaces until 2016.
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Light the way – Boosting profitability through your financial statements
November / December 2014
Newsletter: Contractor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: When it comes to making sense of dollars and cents, contractors may often feel like they’re fumbling around in the dark. Fortunately, the information available in their financial statements can light the way beyond just getting by into the happy land of greater profitability. This article discusses the basics of financial statements and some key ratios that can provide enlightening insights. A sidebar looks at a few general categories of key performance indicators that may help construction company owners catch and improve misaligned and underperforming aspects of their businesses.
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Board matters – Creating a governance policy
Year End 2013
Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: A board governance policy protects your nonprofit’s board of directors as it guides the organization. It’s a framework for making ethical decisions, taking appropriate actions and handling real or potential conflicts. As this article explains, a sound governance policy spells out the role and duties of board members and gives an overview of how the board will operate. In addition, a sidebar notes, there are a number of additional policies relating to board oversight that a nonprofit should have in place.
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Workers’ compensation insurance – Experience rating modifiers make all the difference
Summer 2013
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 876
Abstract: Among the primary formulas that determine every construction company’s workers’ compensation insurance premiums is the experience rating modifier (ERM). Knowing even just a little about where it comes from and what it does can help a business better control its insurance costs. This article explains how insurance companies calculate an ERM and discusses what contractors can do to submit fewer workers’ comp claims. A sidebar offers a hypothetical example of two similar contractors with dissimilar ERMs — and the financial difference this makes.