June / July
Showing 369–384 of 477 results
-
Charitable giving vehicles – CRTs and CLTs offer dual beneficial interests
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 733
Abstract: A charitable remainder trust (CRT) or a charitable lead trust (CLT) can be an important tool in achieving philanthropic and estate planning goals. These “split-interest” trusts — so-called because of their dual beneficial interests — provide for both qualified charities and noncharitable beneficiaries. This article discusses the details of each type of trust.
-
To give or not to give in 2011 and 2012 … that is the estate planning question
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Insight on Estate Planning
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 869
Abstract: Now that the gift tax exemption stands at $5 million and the top gift tax rate is 35%, the tax environment is especially favorable for making large gifts. But because the current levels are scheduled to expire after 2012, the question of whether to maximize gifts to children or other loved ones this year and next is a good one. This article takes a look at a few answers, taking into account “clawback” risks and how family limited partnerships (FLPs) and grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs) fit into the picture. A sidebar looks at the tax-saving power of nontaxable gifts.
-
Does your home office qualify for a deduction?
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 313
Abstract: Whether because their employer is trying to save money on office space or they’re self-employed, many people are working from home today. A tax-related benefit of working from home is claiming the home-office deduction. But, as this article explains, there are a number of requirements that must be observed to avoid running afoul of the IRS.
-
Managing your management team – A successful family business requires efficient, informed decision makers
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 780
Abstract: Running a successful family business in today’s unsettled economic times requires quality products and services, a talented staff and the ability of managers to efficiently make informed decisions. If management team members aren’t working off the same page, it’s important to make them better decision makers. This article offers suggestions for creating a shared understanding among managers, improving their decision-making capabilities, leveraging each manager’s strengths and realizing the full potential of management retreats.
-
Multistate taxation efforts ramp up – Be aware of states with which your company may have nexus
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 625
Abstract: Before a business transaction triggers income or sales tax in a particular state, the company involved typically has to have a nexus — that is, a connection or link — with the state. Until recently, nexus generally was presumed to exist only if the business had a physical presence in the state. In this Internet age, however, even businesses without such a presence may be obligated to pay income or sales taxes. And states have different criteria for determining just what triggers their income or sales taxes. This article looks at some of the criteria used to establish nexus and describes attempts that have been made to streamline regulations among the states.
-
The ABCs of RMDs
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 863
Abstract: One may begin taking penalty-free retirement plan distributions beginning at age 59½. But, after turning age 70½, one must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from employer-sponsored defined contribution plans and traditional IRAs. If not, the consequences are severe. This article looks at the rules regarding RMDs and how to calculate them. It also discusses the tax ramifications of timing RMDs, while a sidebar shows how to make charitable gifts from an IRA.
-
Practical Perspectives: Key financial issues for you and your family – Green housing upgrades cheer up would-be sellers
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 481
Abstract: In this issue, “Practical Perspectives” visits Matt and Sylvia, who consult their financial advisor regarding their summer rehab plans. Their advisor explains how energy-efficient home upgrades — for both their home and car — would be good not only for the planet, but potentially also for their tax bill.
-
Moneylines: News briefs for businesses
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 329
Abstract: This issue’s “Moneylines” examines how workers feel about whether they’re prepared for their retirement; a greater scope of responsibilities being placed on CFOs; and a revised Google algorithm that may have altered where companies show up on a results page.
-
FIFO vs. LIFO – A worthy comparison
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 771
Abstract: One way companies that produce, buy or sell merchandise can potentially reduce their taxable income is by switching from the first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory method to the last-in, first-out (LIFO) approach. But an accounting method switch could affect something beside their tax bill — namely, their financial statements. So it’s not an endeavor to take lightly. Nonetheless, this article shows why comparing FIFO to LIFO every so often is worthwhile.
-
Could you get through? – Create a personal financial crisis management plan
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1164
Abstract: Although there’s no sure-fire cure for every financial disaster, a personal financial crisis management plan can help to mitigate and resolve the mess. This article explains why there’s more to an effective plan than just having insurance. It involves a variety of issues, ranging from short-term cash needs to long-term estate planning. A sidebar offers four warning signs of an impending financial disaster.
-
COMPLIANCE ALERT – Upcoming compliance deadlines:
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 46
Abstract: A brief list of key August 1 tax reporting deadlines.
-
Who’s preparing your tax return and Form 5500?
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 273
Abstract: The IRS issued new requirements regarding tax return preparers this year. Under the new rules, tax preparers must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), regardless of whether they sign the return. This brief article looks at when the IRS requires a PTIN.
-
DOL issues regulations for service providers’ disclosures
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 630
Abstract: The Department of Labor (DOL) has issued regulations that require specific disclosure by companies providing services to qualified plans. The regulations go into effect Jan. 1, 2012. Plans affected include defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans and ERISA 403(b) arrangements. This article reviews the regulations so you can prepare for their implementation.
-
Just don’t do it – Prohibited transactions in qualified plans can affect plan participants
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 840
Abstract: The IRS prohibits certain transactions between a retirement plan and a disqualified person. Why do you need to know this? Because these unlawful actions could potentially have adverse effects on your plan and plan participants. This article highlights the most common types of prohibited transactions and what you should do to avoid them. A sidebar discusses one of the most common prohibited transactions in qualified plans: untimely deposits.
-
Controlled by the IRS – What you need to know about controlled groups
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 764
Abstract: Do you know how a “controlled group” affects your qualified plan? To deter attempts to use multiple businesses to evade IRS requirements, such as discriminating in favor of highly compensated employees, ERISA requires plan sponsors to identify all participating employers. Plans must account for all employees in a controlled group to pass certain discrimination and participation tests. This article defines the different types of controlled groups and summarizes their impact.
-
Back to Basics – How to work with FASB codification
June / July 2011
Newsletter: Commercial Lending Report
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 472
Abstract: As lenders review their borrowers’ 2010 and 2011 financial statements, they may notice references to Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) in the footnotes, instead of the familiar Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) references. Many lenders are uncertain about what these new citations mean and why the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has rewritten its rules. This article explains how ASC affects commercial lenders today.