2020

Showing 561–576 of 589 results

  • Is it time to revisit the R&D credit?

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Manufacturer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 460

    Abstract: The federal tax credit for increasing research and development activities — popularly known as the R&D credit — can be a valuable break for manufacturers. Eligible companies can reduce their tax liability by as much as 7.9 cents (or more if state research credits are available) for each dollar of qualified research expenditures on wages, supplies, consulting fees and contract research. This article looks at why, unfortunately, many manufacturers lose out because they underestimate their R&D expenditures or believe their taxable income is too low to make it worthwhile.

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  • Why the segmented income statement is a powerful management tool

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Manufacturer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 502

    Abstract: A companywide income statement may be sufficient for lenders or other outsiders to evaluate your company’s financial performance. But from management’s perspective, a “segmented” income statement can provide valuable insight into key performance drivers and possible improvement strategies. This article discusses the contents of a segmented income statement and why business owners may want to use one.

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  • How “Made in America” can work for you

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Manufacturer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 642

    Abstract: “Made in the USA” is a hot marketing trend that can help manufacturers differentiate products in the marketplace. If manufacturers can obtain goods domestically faster and at lower costs than foreign suppliers can offer, it seems like a win. But, when “homegrown” products are more expensive than foreign-sourced products, purchasers may balk at the higher price tag. For manufacturers that have used overseas suppliers, deciding when and whether to return to U.S. factories and suppliers can be a tough decision. This article looks at what manufacturers should know before jumping on the Made-in-America bandwagon.

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  • On the road – Let’s review the tax implications of providing company cars

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Manufacturer

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 653

    Abstract: A company car can be a valuable perk for business owners, salespeople and other employees. And now may be an ideal time to invest in business vehicles. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) more than tripled the luxury auto threshold, from $15,800 to an inflation-adjusted $50,000. For 2019, the dollar cap on depreciation deductions doesn’t kick in until a vehicle’s cost exceeds $50,400. This article examines the rules surrounding company cars.

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  • Congress enhances taxpayer rights with the Taxpayer First Act

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 418

    Abstract: The TFA, signed into law in July 2019, expands and strengthens taxpayers’ rights and protections in their dealings with the IRS. This article highlights the Act’s key provisions: the independent appeals process, third-party contracts, innocent spouse relief, and cybersecurity and identity theft protection. Technological improvements are also summarized.

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  • Keep these trustee traits front and center

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 614

    Abstract: A critical but often overlooked aspect of estate planning is deciding who will serve as the trustee for your estate. This person will be responsible for managing all related financial, tax and administrative affairs and, therefore, should be chosen carefully. This article addresses the trustee’s duties and the decision about whether to designate an individual or a corporate trustee to handle settling the estate. Trustee services and fees also are discussed.

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  • Sailing the seas of business on a healthy cash flow

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 680

    Abstract: Pulling in revenue that will ultimately boost the bottom line is every business’s goal. However, keeping the company in prime shape to seize profitable opportunities and overcome financial challenges is related to another objective: having a healthy cash flow. This article explains two cycles important to a healthy flow: the sales cycle and disbursements cycle. The importance of complete and accurate accounting also is discussed.

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  • Partnerships: Are you ready for the new IRS audit rules?

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 842

    Abstract: It’s critical for partnerships, including limited liability companies taxed as partnerships, to consider the potential impact of “centralized audit” rules that are now in force. This article outlines steps you can take before an IRS audit to minimize the burden. This includes opting out of the new rules (if eligible), amending your partnership agreement and appointing an appropriate “partnership representative.” A sidebar discusses the procedure for “opting out” of the rules.

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  • 4 ways AI is impacting the construction industry

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 442

    Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) has transitioned from science fiction to everyday life. Although the construction industry is sometimes wary of new technology, AI is becoming more and more prevalent on jobsites. This article looks at four examples: cameras/drones, 3D modeling, sensors and self-driving vehicles/robots.

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  • Walk the talk: Prioritizing company core values

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 546

    Abstract: A contractor’s core values, or business principles, should be more than a superficial exercise in platitudes. When a construction business establishes a set of values, that company is proclaiming what they stand for and how they do business. This article explains why values are important and what to do with them once you’ve chosen a few.

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  • Viewing your lender as a business partner

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 672

    Abstract: It’s easy for contractors to get intimidated when applying for a business loan. One way to lower the stress level is to view lenders as partners rather than gatekeepers. This article explains why construction companies should articulate a clear rationale for a loan, shop around for a good provider and know the financial metrics that drive lending decisions.

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  • A symbiotic bond – How WIP reports relate to your financial statements

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 949

    Abstract: Work in progress (WIP) reports are too often ignored and less often fully understood. A construction company’s WIP reports share a symbiotic bond with its financial statements — the two should be consistent in the information they present. This article looks at four different schedules of a typical WIP report and discusses how they relate to financial statements.

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  • Newsbits

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 433

    Abstract: This issue’s “Newsbits” highlights “good news” giving trends for donor-advised funds and a disturbing pattern of fundraising professionals leaving nonprofits in significant numbers. The feature also spotlights the recent stagnant growth of community foundation assets.

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  • The tax side of transportation benefits: Are you up to speed?

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 594

    Abstract: One provision of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) dramatically altered the treatment of so-called “qualified transportation fringes” (QTFs). This article explains the new treatment including the IRS’s interim guidance that helps nonprofits determine how much they must increase their UBTI if they offer qualified parking benefits. Several other clarifications in the guidance are discussed.

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  • Teaming up – How to handle financial reporting for two

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 665

    Abstract: It’s likely a smart move when two organizations join forces to boost efficiency, save money and better serve their constituencies. But the combined accounting staffs will need to know how to report the activities of the organizations. This article explains how much of the accounting treatment will depend on the nature of the new relationship. Various collaborative arrangements and mergers are discussed.

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  • Look before you leap: Key considerations when seeking loans

    Winter 2020
    Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 816

    Abstract: For-profit businesses aren’t the only organizations that can find themselves in need of a loan. Nonprofits also may land in situations that call for relatively quick cash. This article discusses various types of loans and loans vs. other funding sources. It also makes suggestions on how to prepare for filling out a loan application. A sidebar explains three financial ratios that lenders often look at when determining whether to make a loan.

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