2021

Showing 433–448 of 551 results

  • Ways you can still cut your 2020 taxes

    February / March 2021
    Newsletter: Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 870

    Abstract: The year may be over, but it’s not too late for taxpayers to cut their taxes. This article contains some timely strategies that could still make a difference for individuals’ tax bills, including contributing to an IRA, contributing to an HSA or taking a home office deduction. A brief sidebar explains that self-employed individuals with a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plan may be eligible to deduct SEP contributions for the 2020 tax year.

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  • Parametric insurance seeks to bridge COVID-19 gap

    Winter 2021
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 430

    Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a significant insurance protection gap in the construction industry (and others): communicable disease. In response, one type of policy that has been gaining traction is parametric insurance coverage. This article explains the concept behind these policies and how contractors could use one to guard against specific risks.

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  • Managing backlog in an uncertain economy

    Winter 2021
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 537

    Abstract: Although construction backlog seems to be rebounding, projects in some areas are still being postponed or canceled. During these uncertain times, contractors can better prepare for what’s to come by monitoring not only their own backlogs, but also that of the industry. This article offers helpful tips on doing so.

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  • Let profit flourish, not fade away

    Winter 2021
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 669

    Abstract: A gradual decline in expected gross profits over the course of a project is known as “profit fade.” It not only undermines financial performance, but also may raise red flags with sureties and lenders. This article describes common culprits and suggests a variety of ways to prevent the problem.

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  • All year long – Smart budgeting practices for construction companies

    Winter 2021
    Newsletter: On-Site

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 934

    Abstract: Most business owners would admit that the only thing harder than setting a budget is sticking to it. Contractors face the added stress of managing multiple project budgets, as well. This article discusses how to stay on top of a company budget throughout the year. A sidebar looks at some ways to improve project-level budgeting.

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  • Estate Planning Red Flag – You own real estate in more than one state

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 288

    Abstract: One goal of estate planning is to avoid or minimize probate. This is particularly important if a person owns real estate in more than one state. Why? Because each piece of real estate titled in his or her name must go through probate in the state where the property is located. This brief article explains how to avoid the probate process using a revocable trust.

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  • Defined-value gifts – Plan carefully to avoid unpleasant tax surprises

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 546

    Abstract: Many people are considering making substantial gifts to the younger generation to take advantage of the current exemption while it lasts. Often, these gifts consist of hard-to-value assets, which can be risky. Making a defined-value gift may help avoid unexpected tax liabilities. This article explains what a defined-value gift is and details why precise language is necessary for the gift to pass muster with the IRS.

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  • Taking steps to protect your will from being contested

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 729

    Abstract: Well-crafted, up-to-date estate planning documents are an imperative for everyone. They also can help ease the burdens on one’s family during a difficult time. Arguably, the most important document is a will. Regardless of how harmonious a family may be during one’s life, there’s always a chance that a disgruntled family member may challenge a person’s estate plan after his or her death. This article explores strategies to reduce the chances of a will being contested.

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  • Can beneficiaries borrow from a trust?

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Estate Planner

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 843

    Abstract: Interest rates remain extremely low, enhancing the benefits of intrafamily loans. These loans allow a person to provide financial assistance to loved ones while potentially reducing gift and estate taxes. But what about families that lack the liquid assets to make such loans? One lesser-known possibility is for trust beneficiaries to borrow money from a trust. This article explains the benefits of intrafamily loans and details why a trust loan may be more advantageous. A sidebar provides a scenario where an intrafamily loan can result in reduced taxes.

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  • COVID-19 checkup – 4 questions to ask a recovering business

    February / March 2021
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 412

    Abstract: Small and medium-sized businesses around the country have borne the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact. As the downturn continues, they must find ways to right-size their operations. For some, this requires rethinking every aspect of the business. Lenders need to determine whether their borrowers are on track to adjust to the new operating environment — and thrive. This article suggests four questions to ask a borrower in this situation, such as whether the borrower’s future business model is realistic and whether the plan for implementing it makes sense.

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  • What can an AUP do for you?

    February / March 2021
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 671

    Abstract: Lending decisions can be complex and it’s important to be able to pull out what’s relevant from the pile. Sometimes a full audit isn’t required. Depending on the circumstances, a lender may request an “agreed-upon procedures” (AUP) engagement to provide a more targeted and narrow view of the borrower’s financial health. This article explains the parameters of an AUP and offers an example to illustrate how it might be a good option for a lender seeking specific information.

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  • Recognize cash flow problems before it’s too late

    February / March 2021
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 721

    Abstract: In light of the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever for lenders to focus their analyses of borrowers’ financial viability on cash. Sudden cash deficits can rapidly become chronic as businesses try to stay afloat in this uncertain economic environment. This article offers some places to look as lenders evaluate cash-poor borrowers — both within the statement of cash flows and beyond.

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  • Lending to a business with all-remote employees

    February / March 2021
    Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 825

    Abstract: Technology allows employees to work from anywhere in the world — and since the COVID-19 pandemic began, this phenomenon has been increasing at a rapid pace. While the arrangement can be beneficial for employees and employers, it also has some downsides. This article suggests that to determine whether a business with remote employees is creditworthy, a lender needs to understand the pros and cons of a virtual workforce and how it may affect the business’s profitability. A sidebar explains how to determine if a worker is an independent contractor or an employee.

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  • Gavrilides Mgmt. Co. v. Michigan Insurance Co. – Court dismisses COVID-19 business interruption claim

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 423

    Abstract: During the COVID-19 pandemic, governmental authorities have ordered many nonessential businesses to temporarily shut down. Hundreds of businesses have filed claims under their business interruption coverage, claims that insurers generally have denied. This article summarizes a ruling in one of the first such cases to go to court, which has given insurers confidence that their denials will stand. Gavrilides Mgmt. Co. v. Michigan Insurance Co., No. 20-258CB (Ingham Cty., Mich. July 1, 2020)

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  • Cryptocurrency and divorce: Getting your client’s money’s worth

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 533

    Abstract: More than a decade after Bitcoin launched, cryptocurrency has become mainstream and, therefore, relevant when it comes to property division in divorce. This form of currency can carry a high value, but it’s also more easily hidden than more traditional assets. This article explains how cryptocurrency works and how divorce attorneys can help their clients identify hidden cryptocurrency assets.

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  • Plan for the future – Balancing business succession and estate planning

    March / April 2021
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 695

    Abstract: A challenge presented by family businesses is that the older and younger generations may have conflicting objectives and financial needs. This article highlights strategies that can separate ownership and management succession, as well as generate cash flow for the owner while minimizing the burden on the next generation.

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