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  • Spousal lifetime access trusts – How couples can lock in gift and estate tax exemptions

    January / February 2023
    Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: Affluent married couples may want to take advantage of the record-high federal gift and estate tax exemption before it disappears, yet might not be ready to part with their wealth. This article explores an option in this situation: the spousal lifetime access trust (SLAT). SLATs allow couples to leverage the current exemption amount while retaining access to trust assets. A sidebar explains the mutually beneficial concept of “his and her” SLATs.

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  • Does a qualified charitable distribution make sense this year?

    Year End 2020
    Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: A unique provision in the tax code allows certain transfers, made directly from a traditional IRA to a qualified charitable organization, to avoid taxation. Although this benefit of a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) has been negated for 2020, there are still several viable reasons for making a QCD this year. This article explains how the current tax laws in 2020 affect QCDs. A sidebar details how QCDs work.

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  • Always be building (the bottom line) – How to maintain your construction company’s net profits

    January / February 2019
    Newsletter: Contractor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: A construction company may do many great things to operate profitably. But when expenses come due, its bottom line may not look so hot. This article explores a variety of ways to tighten up net profits. A sidebar looks at the troubling issue of slow-paying project owners.

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  • Looking ahead: Is your succession planning up to speed?

    Spring 2017
    Newsletter: Law Firm Management

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: Millennials’ emergence as a prominent demographic highlights the need for many workplaces to prepare for a generational shift. Law firms are no exception, particularly those founded by dynamic Baby Boomer rainmakers. If firms are going to survive and thrive, they must think about how to transfer management and primary client relationship responsibilities from senior partners to their younger colleagues. This article highlights the need for law firms to engage in comprehensive and formal succession planning. A sidebar discusses replacement of a managing partner.

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  • Patent obviousness analysis fails with Federal Circuit

    February / March 2014
    Newsletter: Ideas on Intellectual Property Law

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: One company holding a design patent for “the ornamental design for a slipper” sued another for patent infringement. The district court found the patent invalid because the design was obvious from prior art. But the Federal Circuit found that that court had made multiple errors in its obviousness analysis. This article describes those mistakes, while a sidebar notes that the appeals court also found fault with the district court’s judgment that the patent was invalid because the design was primarily functional rather than primarily ornamental. High Point Design LLC v. Buyer’s Direct, Inc., No. 2012-1455, Sept. 11, 2013 (Fed. Cir.)

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  • Reverse mergers — New rules could mean new obstacles

    April / May 2012
    Newsletter: Merger & Acquisition Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: A reverse merger often is considered a quicker and cheaper way for a company to go public, but new rules could make these transactions more difficult. The SEC recently applied the brakes to companies pursuing reverse mergers as a backdoor method of getting listed on major public stock exchanges. Although these rules won’t necessarily affect all plans, this article examines the potential obstacles. It explains what’s involved in a reverse merger, how the new rules promote greater transparency, and potential implications for companies and financial markets. A sidebar describes the three major steps involved in a reverse merger transaction.

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  • Does your retirement future look as bright as it used to?

    August / September 2009
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: Many people approaching their “golden years” are understandably nervous about opening their retirement plan statements these days. Although leaving the workforce — and a steady income — behind during the current economic downturn probably isn’t ideal, it may still be possible to retire in style. But it’s important to look at finances. How lavish a retirement is desired? Will there be enough money for health care? Beyond Social Security, one must look to a tax-advantaged retirement plan, such as a 401(k), IRA, or simplified employee pension (SEP). Or one can work longer, but retirement plan minimum distribution requirements take effect at age 70½ (although, as a sidebar explains, these have been suspended for 2009).

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  • Free or low-cost software offers tech alternatives

    Year End 2008
    Newsletter: Nonprofit Agendas

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: Does your nonprofit need to compete in this technology-driven environment but there’s one hitch: You just can’t afford it? Don’t be discouraged: Good software can be obtained without spending much money — and in some cases without spending any at all.

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  • What to expect from the new business valuation standard

    January / February 2008
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 925

    Abstract: The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has issued a new valuation standard that takes effect for engagements accepted on or after Jan. 1, 2008. Statement on Standards for Valuation Services No. 1, Valuation of a Business, Business Ownership Interest, Security, or Intangible Asset applies to all AICPA members, including those who perform valuations for certain purposes — including transactions, financings and taxation. This article discusses how the new standard can affect attorneys by permitting only two types of engagement reports.

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