January / February
Showing 369–384 of 623 results
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Do I really need an appraisal expert? — DIY valuations can lead to inequitable divorce settlements
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 995
Abstract: When divorcing spouses own a business, it’s usually their biggest, most illiquid asset. So it’s important to have an accurate idea of how much it’s worth. Appraisers bring concrete market evidence and a range of other resources to the table. This article explains how appraisers accurately value such assets, thus helping ensure that complex marital estates are equitably distributed. Wood v. Wood, Case No. 09SL-DR00721, 2011 Mo. App. LEXIS 1589, November 29, 2011.
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In search of unreported income — A forensic expert can help find missing assets
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Valuation & Litigation Briefing / Litigation & Valuation Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 730
Abstract: Getting a client a fair divorce settlement is challenging enough. But when the other spouse siphons off a business’s income, there’s double trouble. That’s why it’s critical to employ a forensic expert at the first sign of malfeasance. He or she can use several accounting methods to uncover missing income in divorce cases. This article explains some of these methods.
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Case note: Intellectual property had zero value
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Valuation & Litigation Briefing / Litigation & Valuation Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 530
Abstract: In a recent case, a U.S. Bankruptcy Court concluded that certain intellectual property received by the debtor had no value. As a result, the property didn’t constitute “reasonably equivalent value” in exchange for two mortgages challenged as fraudulent transfers. This article reviews the case, in which the court found the defendants’ valuation expert’s use of the cost method and income method to be inappropriate. Citation: Holber v. M&T Bank, et al. (In re: Sheffler), Case No. 09-22088REF, Adv. No. 09-2177 (Bankr. E.D. Pa. June 5, 2012).
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Estimating economic damages in wrongful death cases
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Valuation & Litigation Briefing / Litigation & Valuation Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 970
Abstract: Calculating economic damages in wrongful death cases is deceptively complex. It requires an expert to consider a variety of factors to ensure that none of the decedent’s financial contributions are missed or double-counted. This article looks at those factors, which might include earnings history, lost earning capacity, employer-provided benefits and household services. A sidebar discusses whether it’s appropriate to exclude personal consumption.
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Good news! — FASB votes to abandon controversial litigation proposal
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Valuation & Litigation Briefing / Litigation & Valuation Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 632
Abstract: In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) voted to scrap its controversial proposal to heighten disclosure requirements for certain contingent losses, including potential losses from pending or threatened litigation. This article examines the objections that were raised against the FASB proposal and reviews the existing accounting requirements for loss contingencies.
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Tax Tips — FICA refunds for severance pay?
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 469
Abstract: This issue’s “Tax Tips” explains why a business that has recently made significant severance payments might be entitled to a refund of FICA taxes. It shows how taxpayers can help protect themselves against a fraudulent tax return being filed in their name, and discusses an increase in the annual gift tax exclusion.
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Betting on a SCIN — This tool may help you transfer assets at little or no tax cost
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 623
Estate planning can be a gamble. Tax and estate tax laws change. Family members pass away before their time. But a gamble that can pay off in certain circumstances is the self-canceling installment note — or SCIN. It may allow a person to transfer a business or other assets to family members at little or no tax cost. This article discusses how a SCIN works and how, if it pays off, a family will reap a bounty in the form of income, gift and estate tax savings. But, the article cautions, there’s no guarantee that it will pay off.
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Restricted stock and RSUs: How are they taxed?
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 820
Over the last seven years, restricted stock and restricted stock units (RSUs) have grown in popularity as incentive compensation tools, while the use of stock options has declined. This article explains why restricted stock and RSUs can be an attractive alternative to options, but also notes the differences between the two instruments and their respective tax implications.
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Tax deal resolves fiscal cliffhanger
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Tax Impact
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 918
On Jan. 1, Congress passed the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA). This article offers highlights of the law’s individual tax provisions. It looks at changes in income, capital gains, estate and gift tax rates, deductions and exemptions. It also discusses the alternative minimum tax and the extension of a number of tax breaks for individuals. A sidebar lists several business tax break extensions, as well.
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Ask the Advisor — Are tax breaks available for energy-efficient construction?
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 482
Abstract: With the emphasis on green construction and technologies, more owners and investors are considering adding energy-efficient components into new construction, as well as retrofitting existing buildings with energy-efficient improvements. A big incentive is the potential tax benefits under Internal Revenue Code Section 179D. This article explains how to take advantage of this break before its currently scheduled expiration date in 2014.
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Valuations in a tough market: Thinking outside the box
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 769
Abstract: Under the market and income approaches, recent market data is used to derive current value. But scarce financing and weak performance are keeping risk-averse investors at bay. Moreover, many recent deals may have involved distressed buyers forced to sell. With few truly comparable deals for appraisers to hang their hats on, many are thinking outside the box. This article discusses the factors that appraisers study to normalize data and truly understand what’s happening in the marketplace.
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High construction costs prevail — Tips on how to control overall project expenses
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 644
Abstract: Construction costs were generally high for building materials in 2012, and the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is predicting a long road before costs start to stabilize. This article offers tips to help contractors keep building costs under control. It addresses areas such as forming a construction team early, scheduling projects during normally slow seasons, managing fuel costs and employing value engineering.
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FLP survives IRS challenge — Court notes transfer of real estate was for a legitimate nontax reason
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Real Estate Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 920
Abstract: Family limited partnerships (FLPs) offer a tax-efficient way to transfer assets — including real estate — to family members. This article discusses a case in which a couple transferred woodlands properties to an FLP, so that they could become a family asset that the family could eventually build homes on for sale purposes. The U.S. Tax Court refuted the IRS’s argument that the transfer didn’t qualify as a “bona fide sale for adequate and full consideration.” A sidebar lists “partnership formalities” an FLP must observe. Citation: Estate of Joanne Harrison Stone (Tax Court 2012)
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Search for a job, find a tax deduction
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 362
Abstract: Those who have been pounding the pavement searching for a job know that the associated costs can quickly add up. But it may be possible for them to deduct those expenses on their tax return. This brief article explains the qualifications for particular deductions and what types and amounts of expenses are deductible.
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First baby on board? — Now’s the time to safeguard your child’s financial future
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 945
Abstract: The arrival of a first child is a joyful experience — but also sobering, as one considers what steps to take to protect the child’s financial future. This article notes the importance of establishing a will and naming beneficiaries; supplementing insurance policies; and planning for college expenses. A sidebar looks at tax breaks that are available for those raising a child.
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Intrafamily loans: Low interest rates enhance this wealth transfer strategy
January / February 2013
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 722
Abstract: Those who have spent a lifetime to build their wealth and are now in a position to financially help their children or other family members may wonder: Should they provide this money in the form of gifts or should they lend it? This article explains why an intrafamily loan is an attractive, tax-smart strategy in light of today’s low-interest-rate environment — but that there are risks, as well.