Spring
Showing 545–560 of 759 results
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Excessive compensation — Can you satisfy the rebuttable presumption?
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Profitable Solutions for Nonprofits
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 836
Abstract: Exempt organizations across the country should be sensitive to the issue of excessive executive compensation. The IRS can impose excise taxes on the executive, and the organization will suffer reputational damage. Fortunately, a nonprofit can limit the potential liability of its members by taking advantage of a three-step procedure known as the rebuttable presumption. This article explains the three requirements for compensation arrangements to have a rebuttable presumption of reasonableness. A sidebar lists some of the issues that can create a conflict of interest for someone approving a compensation arrangement.
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The Contractor’s Corner — How can we better control fuel costs?
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 469
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” offers suggestions for managing fuel costs. It discusses specific preventive measures but also looks at the advisability of striking a price protection agreement with a fuel vendor.
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4 hot features of the latest construction accounting software
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 481
Abstract: Running a construction company without accounting software may seem next to impossible these days. So, those who have a construction accounting package in place need to keep an eye on whether it’s becoming outdated. This article examines four hot features of the latest software that may provide incentive for an upgrade.
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Boost productivity without breaking the bank — Considering on-the-job incentives
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 722
Abstract: When looking to boost productivity, it’s natural to want to incentivize workers. But should a contractor offer incentives to project crews in today’s uncertain economy? Not without serious thought, of course. But if doing so will improve timeliness, the long-term results could pay off. This article looks at some issues to consider. It discusses setting goals and determining the kinds of incentives to be offered, and providing written explanation and regular monitoring.
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Managing payroll taxes: Not easy, but important
Spring 2012
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 928
Abstract: This past February, Congress extended the reduction of the employee portion of the Social Security tax on earned income. The cut does apply to employees, not employers. But, for construction company owners, using the development as inspiration to review payroll tax management is still a good idea. This article examines which workers are taxable employees (vs. independent contractors) and what kinds of compensation are subject to payroll taxes. It also discusses creating or formalizing an “accountable” tool-reimbursement plan to help manage taxes. A sidebar lists the four major taxes that fall under the generic term “payroll tax.”
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New AICPA white paper offers fair value guidance
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 561
Abstract: Assessing the fair value of a nonprofit’s assets for financial statements isn’t an easy task. But a recent white paper issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) should help clear up some uncertainty. This article notes that “Measurement of Fair Value for Certain Transactions of Not-for-Profit Entities” provides guidance for valuing three types of nonprofit transactions: unconditional promises to give cash or other financial assets; beneficial interests in trusts; and split interest agreements.
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Politics as usual — What an election year means for nonprofits
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 642
Abstract: It’s a myth that nonprofits must remain apolitical. Under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3), charitable organizations can participate in advocacy, such as educating the public about an issue central to their mission. And they can even engage in lobbying — within limits. But it’s important for nonprofits to exercise caution when participating in political activities — or they may risk their tax-exempt status. This article explains the different rules for 501(c)(3) and 501(c)6 organizations.
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Planned giving: Your future is now
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 753
Abstract: In these economically challenging times, it’s especially important that nonprofits focus on planned giving. Most wealthy donors who pledge to make lifetime gifts or to leave part of their estate to the charitable organization will follow through on their intentions. But they need to be educated about the advantages of planned, or deferred, giving. This article explains the vehicles available to them and how nonprofits can find potential donors.
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Treat your employees like the valuable assets they are
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 836
Abstract: When asked to list their organization’s assets, nonprofit leaders are likely to leave personnel off the list. But without a knowledgeable and committed staff, there’s little chance of delivering program services or raising enough money to fund them. This article discusses how to find and keep good staff. This starts with smart hiring, but staffers also need to buy in to the nonprofit’s mission and support its programs. A sidebar lists nonmonetary ways to let staffers know they’re valued.
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Contractor’s Toolbox – Beware of the invisible contract clause
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: Contracting with federal and state government agencies requires careful planning — especially when a public construction contract is involved. Not only can these documents be lengthy and complex but, in some cases, “invisible” mandatory contract clauses may be treated as part of the contract even if they’re not included. This article references a long-standing court case in which, following a contract termination, a contractor’s lost profits claim was rejected because the court presumed the contractor to be aware of a clause that wasn’t actually written into the contract. G.L. Christian and Associates v. U.S., 312 F.2d 418 (Ct. Cl.1963) General Engineering & Machine Works v. O’Keefe, 991 F.2d 775 (Fed. Cir. 1993)
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Asking the right questions about your profitability
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 646
Abstract: In today’s economy, contractors must take any threat to their profitability seriously. Regularly asking the right questions about their profitability can help them keep their guard up. This article offers a few to consider. They involve keeping track of indirect costs, managing receivables and payables effectively, and addressing change orders properly.
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Owner compensation: What’s reasonable?
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 684
Abstract: Controlling owners of closely held construction companies are generally free to set their own salaries and bonuses. But, under certain circumstances, the reasonableness of owner compensation can become an issue. This article examines a U.S. Tax Court case that outlines five factors to consider in determining whether a corporate shareholder/employee’s compensation is reasonable. Multi-Pak Corp. v. Commissioner (T.C. Memo 2010-139)
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Mission critical – Prequalifying subcontractors important in today’s economy
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 799
Abstract: Prequalification is one of the most effective strategies for minimizing the risk of subcontractor failure. This process benefits subs, as well, by providing them with a competitive advantage once they’ve made the list. This article discusses the specific information that’s required in the prequalification process, and explains that Web-based prequalification networks offer significant benefits for general contractors and subcontractors alike. A sidebar lists examples of red flags that may signal potential subcontractor failures or defaults.
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BANK Wire – OCC provides foreclosure guidance
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 426
Abstract: This issue’s “BANK Wire” discusses recent foreclosure guidance offered by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; the FDIC’s increased scrutiny of bank insurance policies; FAQs on interest rate risk management that have been jointly adopted by the various federal banking agencies; and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s prototype monthly mortgage statement that is being offered for comments.
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Sorting through restatements – Sometimes financial restatements simply correct mistakes
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 550
Abstract: Mistakes on borrowers’ financial statements, requiring financial restatement, can happen. But financial restatements can also be a red flag for fraud or misrepresentation. It’s a challenge for any lender to determine which is which. This article uses a hypothetical situation describing a company that innocently made mistakes, resulting in a costly restatement before it was able to successfully complete a public offering. The article also describes some of the leading causes of financial restatements.
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Understand the tax implications of bank mergers
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 623
Abstract: Institutions contemplating a merger need to consider a variety of tax issues. Two key issues today are: the dividend vs. capital gain treatment of cash payments in a tax-free merger, and the preservation of deferred tax assets. It’s also important to conduct thorough due diligence to uncover any tax liabilities that might be inherited from the target bank. This article takes a look at each of these matters.