Spring
Showing 561–576 of 759 results
-
Suspicious activity: Are you seeing the big picture?
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 856
Abstract: Monitoring customer transactions for suspicious activity is a key component of a financial institution’s Bank Secrecy Act / Anti-Money Laundering (BSA/AML) program. Unfortunately, many banks make the mistake of focusing their efforts on deposit accounts and paying less attention to other products and services, particularly lending. This article shows how, after conducting a risk assessment, a bank can design a BSA/AML compliance program that fits its risk profile, and then implement risk-based due diligence procedures to minimize lending-related BSA/AML risks. A sidebar lists several borrower red flags that may raise bank suspicions.
-
HSAs can be good for your financial health
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 191
Abstract: Contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA) can result in significant savings. This short article explains the requirements for participating in an HSA and the tax advantages associated with one.
-
Hiring time – Options for owners who need a hand
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 534
Abstract: Although many business owners remain uncertain about the economy’s recovery, some have decided to bring new staff on board to take advantage of any potential economic upswing. As this article explains, owners need to consider their current productivity and revenue — as well as projected growth. They also must weigh the cost of lost opportunities against the cost of hiring a full-time employee or temp.
-
How to avoid — or at least survive — an IRS audit
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 375
Abstract: Although it’s not always possible to prevent an audit, it is possible to reduce the IRS scrutiny that is likely to trigger one — and to be prepared to defend the business if an audit letter arrives. This article lists tax return items that are likely to raise red flags with the IRS and explains how to mount a defense with the assistance of a tax professional.
-
Chance of a lifetime – Don’t miss the temporarily high gift tax exemption
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Business Matters
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 481
Abstract: Thanks to 2010’s Tax Relief act, it’s possible to transfer up to a lifetime maximum of $5.12 million to family members or others free of gift taxes. But, without congressional action, on Jan. 1, 2013, the lifetime gift and estate tax exemptions will fall to $1 million. In addition, the top gift and estate tax rates will increase from 35% to 55%. This article explains the benefits of a transfer in 2012, while a sidebar offers options for those who aren’t ready to fully relinquish control of their assets but want to take advantage of the current gift tax exemption.
-
Used vehicle departments reap what they sow
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 371
Abstract: Used vehicles are in high demand and short supply. Low-mileage, fuel efficient cars are especially hot. But it’s important to not get caught up in the hype. Discipline is the only way to consistently make money when selling used vehicles. This short article explains how to appraise with care and get salespeople to agree on the worth of a particular vehicle.
-
Consider plumping up your service menu
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 674
Abstract: Dealerships are finding that it’s easier to sell F&I products at the time of a costly repair, or when the customers’ warranties are about to expire, than it was at the sales closing. As a result, more service writers are being trained to talk about the value of service contracts and prepaid maintenance plans and how to close them. This article discusses sales techniques that work and how to be ready before a customer returns for a visit.
-
Protecting your assets in a divorce
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 787
Abstract: Divorces can be painful. Hiring an outside financial expert to serve as a consultant can help ease the financial pain. This article shows how an expert can value a dealership and perform other financial tasks to help achieve an equitable distribution of assets that doesn’t spread an owner too thin personally or impair dealership performance. Specifically, it looks at what constitutes a marital asset, the three approaches used to value a dealership, and the distinction between business and personal goodwill.
-
Is it time to expand? Caution is the name of the game when bulking up for a recovery
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 958
Abstract: Sales are finally recovering in most states, and banks are lending again. So, it might be time for many dealerships to renovate, repair or expand to stay competitive in their market. But how to be sure? This article discusses how to look at market forecasts and examines the scenario analysis tools a CPA can use to evaluate whether an investment makes sense. A sidebar offers some tax reasons why expansion might be a good idea in 2012.
-
Extend your reach – Cost segregation studies offer a profit-building opportunity
Spring 2008
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 824
Abstract: In a business climate of shrinking margins and increased competition, landing new construction contracts is more challenging than ever. This article describes how you can nail down more business by contributing your services to a cost segregation study. It also offers a full explanation of what a cost segregation study is and how your expertise would be used. (Updated 2/23/12)
-
The Contractor’s Corner – How can I keep debt from sneaking up on me?
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 423
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” looks at the dilemma of a contractor who worries about encroaching debt even when work is plentiful. Construction businesses are particularly sensitive to cash flow fluctuations, so giving up too much flexibility to debt could really hurt. This article explains how contractors need to prioritize debt, paying particular attention to their debt-to-equity ratio. It also discusses options to bankruptcy when debt becomes overwhelming.
-
The state of your construction company – Benchmarking can help you determine where you stand
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 648
Abstract: To get and stay ahead, contractors must continually focus on getting better. One way to do so is to regularly undertake the process of benchmarking their company’s performance against either its previous results or those of other contractors who provide comparable services. This article examines the differences between internal and external benchmarking and how to choose the specific benchmarks that have the most effect on the company. It’s then a matter of assembling the right data to be measured.
-
Manage subcontractor risk with the right software
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 416
Abstract: Subcontractors are a calculated risk, so it’s imperative to gather and track data pertinent to ensuring effective subcontractor management. The good news is that there is software available to help automate the process. This article discusses the tasks that specialized software can perform, with the result that contractors can improve cash flow and the timing of payments, and ensure they’re not paying subs who haven’t fulfilled a job’s administrative requirements.
-
2011 tax planning – Keeping your eye on the ball as the season heats up
Spring 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1037
Abstract: Whatever contractors do in the coming year will have a big effect on their 2011 tax bill. So it’s important that they keep their eye on the ball as the months progress — particularly in light of tax law changes that were passed last year. This article discusses these changes as they affect bonus depreciation, the Section 179 expensing deduction, and which of these options might provide a bigger benefit in a particular situation. Several other tax breaks are mentioned, while a sidebar shows that it might still be possible to qualify for a retention credit even though the HIRE Act of 2010 hasn’t been extended.
-
Cybercrime – Are your donors safe?
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 422
Abstract: Hackers and identity thieves increasingly target charities because they typically have smaller budgets for computer security and are less tech-savvy. Just because a nonprofit hasn’t experienced problems doesn’t mean it’s safe. Even without the budget to launch a full-scale offensive, nonprofits can take steps to protect their constituents, so that supporters don’t have to worry about disclosing personal information to them.
-
The great nonprofit challenge – Finding new board members
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 561
Abstract: Although an underperforming board should always be a concern for nonprofits, weak leadership is particularly serious when budgets are tight and major strategic decisions need to be made. What’s more, government regulators are increasing their oversight of nonprofits and their boards, making finding and keeping dedicated directors essential to any organization’s future. This article offers advice on how to find board members who are enthusiastic about the nonprofit’s mission and are able to meet its changing needs and circumstances.