2010
Showing 545–560 of 657 results
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Connecting the dot-coms in a trademark dispute
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Ideas on Intellectual Property Law
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 561
Abstract: It’s well established that generic terms aren’t eligible for protection as trademarks or service marks. Some marketers, however, might try to bypass that problem by adding the suffix “.com” to an otherwise generic term in hopes of transforming it into a protectable brand name. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit squared off with such a party in a case involving use of the word “hotels” in a name. In re HOTELS.COM, No. 08-1429, 2009 (Fed. Cir.)
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Fore! – Court takes swing at printed publications as bars to patentability
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Ideas on Intellectual Property Law
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 895
Abstract: The Federal Patent Act prohibits the patenting of an invention that was described in a printed publication more than one year before its patent application is filed. But what is a “printed publication”? In this case, an inventor argued that his rejected manuscript did not qualify as a printed publication because no evidence indicated it was included in a catalog or index at that time that would have allowed an interested party to locate it. A sidebar lists three similar cases. In re Lister, No. 09-1060, 2009 (Fed. Cir.); In re Hall, 781 F.2d 897, 1986 (Fed. Cir.); In re Bayer, 568 F.2d 1357, 1978 (CCPA); In re Cronyn, 890 F.2d 1158, 1989 (Fed. Cir.)
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Estate Planning Pitfall – You haven’t looked at your estate plan in light of estate tax law uncertainty
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 320
Abstract: The 2001 tax act that reduced the top estate tax rate and increased the estate tax exemption over the last several years also repealed the estate tax — for 2010 only. It was expected that Congress would repeal the repeal by the end of 2009, but that didn’t happen. Regardless of what happens, it’s important to review one’s estate plan both now and after Congress takes action.
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Splitting the insurance bill – Family split-dollar arrangements can reduce gift taxes
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 685
Abstract: Dave and Susan have established an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) to purchase and hold a second-to-die life insurance policy. When the second spouse dies, the death benefit will be paid to the trust estate-tax free and then distributed tax free to their daughter, Anna, the trust’s beneficiary. There’s just one problem: To cover the policy’s premium, Dave and Susan make annual contributions to the ILIT, which are considered taxable gifts to Anna. Because of the way the trust is structured, the couple can use their combined annual gift tax exclusions to shield a portion of each contribution from gift tax. But the remaining portion is still a taxable gift. A family split-dollar insurance arrangement may be the answer.
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I’ll take a pass – Use a qualified disclaimer to forgo an interest in property
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 541
Abstract: Estate planning isn’t static — after a plan is created, life continues and circumstances likely will change. Estate tax laws also might change, warranting different strategies. A qualified disclaimer is one estate planning tool that provides some flexibility. A disclaimer is an irrevocable and unqualified refusal to accept an interest in property; if the disclaimer is “qualified,” the property will be redirected without negative gift or estate tax consequences. A person who is in line to inherit a significant amount of assets, but has a particular set of tax circumstances that make it unwise to accept further wealth, should consider using a disclaimer to pass the wealth on to another beneficiary.
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The Roth IRA: A powerful estate planning tool
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1155
Abstract: A Roth IRA may not be the first thing that many think about when considering estate planning techniques. After all, not only is it designed to be a retirement savings vehicle, but the income of wealthier individuals keeps them from being eligible to contribute. However, beginning in 2010, conversions from traditional IRAs are available to taxpayers at all income levels. This article looks at some of the pros (and a few possible cons) of Roth IRAs involving distribution requirements, income tax considerations and possible estate tax savings. A sidebar discusses the benefits of Roth IRAs for kids.
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New for 2010: Roth IRA conversions available to everyone!
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 252
Abstract: 2010 is the year when those with significant amounts in their traditional IRAs can convert and reap the tax-free growth benefits of a Roth IRA — regardless of their income level. Previously, one had to have a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $100,000 or less to be eligible to convert. This short article looks at some of the benefits and caveats.
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Are you caring for aging parents? If so, you’ll want to know about the adult dependent exemption
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 827
Abstract: Many in their 40s and 50s find themselves caring for children and aging parents while worrying about their own retirement. The combination of these factors can create a substantial burden on personal finances. The adult dependent tax exemption may help, if one qualifies — that depends on the income of both the taxpayer and his or her parents. Even if one doesn’t qualify, it still may be possible to deduct some medical costs. A sidebar discusses long-term care insurance.
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A stabilizing force – An advisory board can steer your family business through tough economic times
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 692
Abstract: In these difficult economic times, companies are under extreme pressure to produce results, which can lead to increased tensions between company executives. In a family business, the strain can be even greater because of possible family conflicts or emotional ties. To maintain an even keel and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the company, forming an advisory board may be a smart option. An advisory board isn’t bound by a fiduciary responsibility to the company and shareholders, so it can feel freer to think creatively to develop solutions to business problems and identify new business opportunities. There are five key steps to consider when setting up a board.
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This for that – Barter makes a comeback in today’s economy
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 653
Abstract: Barter sounds so ancient, but the practice is still being used by companies — especially in today’s tough economic times. With credit still difficult to obtain from banks, many businesses are bartering their products and services to conserve cash flow and reduce excess inventory. To initiate the barter process, a company can handle the arrangements itself or can consult with an exchange company to help find trading partners. This article looks at some of the details, but a sidebar warns that these cashless transactions can’t cut out the IRS.
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Moneylines: News briefs for businesses
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 394
Abstract: This issue’s “Moneylines” takes a look at increased IRS scrutiny of wealthy taxpayers; a survey showing that businesses are catching up on their debts; the rise in “homepreneurship”; and the increasing use of social networking among businesses.
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Practical Perspectives: Key financial issues for you and your family – Couple escapes close call with online tax scam
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 502
Abstract: When Irv was using his smartphone to check his e-mail, he noticed a message purportedly from the IRS. The e-mail solicited not only his Social Security number but also the number of the checking account he and his wife had used to pay their last tax bill. Surprised and a little suspicious, he mentioned the message to their advisor when the couple sat down to discuss some other matters. The advisor confirmed all of their suspicions: It was a scam. Fortunately, no damage had been done, but the advisor warned them about “phishing” and other scams.
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Paying college expenses? – You may be eligible for a valuable credit or deduction
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 715
Abstract: Those who are paying higher education expenses may be eligible for a valuable tax credit or deduction. The American Opportunity credit is available for expenses incurred during the first four years of a postsecondary education. And the Lifetime Learning credit may apply to graduate courses, continuing professional education or job-skills courses. Or, one might take a deduction. The best option depends on individual circumstances.
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The embattled 401(k) – Businesses can still find value in this employee benefit
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1030
Abstract: Today’s employees may be more concerned than ever about building up retirement savings, and they’ll be looking to their employers to help them meet this goal via a 401(k) plan. Companies not worried about attracting and retaining workers now will likely do so as the economy recovers and more baby boomers retire. This article looks at a number of 401(k) options — the traditional, the Roth, the Safe Harbor and the SIMPLE — and how each may or not be suited for a particular type of business. A sidebar discusses the Solo 401(k) for self-employed businesspeople.
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COMPLIANCE ALERT – Upcoming compliance deadlines:
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 82
Abstract: A brief list of key tax reporting deadlines leading up to April 15.
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2010 vs. 2009 retirement plan limits
February / March 2010
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 117
Abstract: This brief chart highlights numerous retirement plan limits. Due to the economic decline, the limits for 2010 remained the same as 2009.