General & Family Business
Showing 801–816 of 1042 results
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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.
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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.
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Why Social Security still matters (and when to use it)
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 403
Abstract: Although no one should depend solely on Social Security for retirement, many people go the opposite route and discount its value entirely. The truth likely lies somewhere in between: Social Security still matters as a way to supplement a nest egg, but it’s important to do that supplementing at the right time. This article looks at the pros and cons of collecting retirement benefits earlier or later than the normal retirement date, depending on one’s individual circumstances.
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Giving to charity can mean saving on taxes
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 440
Abstract: This article reviews the basics of charitable giving and putting together a donation plan for 2011. It explains what qualifies as a charity for tax purposes, which donations are not fully deductible, and how to keep track of contributions. It also notes that the Tax Relief act passed in December extends a couple of valuable charitable giving breaks through 2011.
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Is it time for a road trip? Be sure to consider the tax impact of crossing state lines
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 652
Abstract: Conducting business in multiple states may open new markets and allow companies to better leverage their distinctive strengths. But doing so can also create unexpected tax liability. Another state can apply its income, franchise, or sales and use tax to a business if that business establishes a sufficient connection, or “nexus,” with that state — and many states require only a minimal presence to establish nexus. This article discusses the factors that establish nexus, and explains why multistate taxation isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
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Size up your business structure – Despite tax rate extensions, still a useful endeavor
Spring 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1009
Abstract: In 2010, the possibility of a rise in individual tax rates had many business owners questioning whether so-called “pass-through” entities were still viable. The tax law that passed in December postpones a tax rate increase until 2013. Nonetheless, there’s never a bad time to size up one’s business structure. This article discusses the pros and cons of operating as either an S corporation or a C corporation, or as a limited liability company (LLC). A sidebar looks at some of the specific factors that should be considered if converting from an S to a C corporation.
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Learning the ropes before taking the reins – A smooth transition requires the successor in a family business to know all areas
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 675
Abstract: Grooming a successor in any business setting can be difficult, but it can be especially tricky in a family business. To help make the transition as seamless as possible, a successor needs to know the family business from the bottom up. To achieve this, the transition plan should include a multidisciplined approach showing the responsibilities and pressures each employee handles. This involves such areas as sales, customer service, finance, human resources and marketing.
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Are Roth IRAs worth a second look?
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 806
Abstract: When it comes to IRAs, the traditional version is by far the most popular. But it may be time to take a second look at the Roth IRA, because it can be an important component of a retirement savings strategy. This article points out the circumstances in which a Roth may be advantageous, and discusses contribution limits. A sidebar takes a brief look at Roth 401(k), 403(b) and 457 plans.
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Married couples get more estate planning flexibility — temporarily
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 316
Abstract: Under the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, if one spouse dies in 2011 or 2012 and part (or all) of his or her estate tax exemption is unused at his or her death, the estate can elect to permit the surviving spouse to use the deceased spouse’s remaining estate tax exemption, so that the exemption essentially is “portable.” Making this election is simpler than transferring assets during life and/or setting up a credit shelter trust. But, as this article explains, current law allows this option for only two years, so any planning will need to take that into account.
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Why 2011 may be a great year to invest in your business
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 770
Abstract: A company considering investing in assets, research or people may find that 2011 is the year to do so. Why? Because the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 provides some enhanced tax breaks that may not be available (or that may be more limited) next year. This article discusses the status of bonus depreciation, the research credit, and the Work Opportunity credit. A sidebar shows how much bonus depreciation is available when.
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Practical Perspectives: Key financial issues for you and your family – Newlyweds get up to speed on life insurance
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 515
Abstract: “Practical Perspectives” in this issue takes a look at Brent and Angela, a newlywed couple who wisely decide to plan for the future. They’ve heard the words “term” and “whole life” (or “permanent”) used in relation to life insurance. But the particulars escaped them. Their financial advisor explains the differences in policies and what the couple should consider in making their choice.
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Moneylines: News Briefs for Businesses
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 331
Abstract: This issue’s “Moneylines” discusses 2011 IRS mileage rates for the business use of a vehicle; Inc. Magazine’s predicted top-performing industries for 2011, and what business owners can learn from them; and one survey’s indication of increased hiring this year.
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Always an issue – IRS still watchful for misclassified employees
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 717
Abstract: The conflict between the IRS and businesses regarding who is an independent contractor and who is an actual employee is nothing new and will probably always be an issue. This article shows how to keep up to speed on the IRS rules regarding the use and classification of independent contractors. It discusses the different characteristics of employees and contractors and IRS penalties for failing to observe the distinction.
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The Tax Relief act of 2010 – Mapping out strategies for individuals
April / May 2011
Newsletter: Trendlines
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1231
Abstract: The many provisions of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010, passed in December, map out the tax planning terrain for the near future. This article shows the new law’s effect on income and Social Security taxes and the AMT; long-term capital gains and qualified dividends; tax breaks for parents; and the ability to take an itemized deduction for state and local sales taxes in lieu of state and local income taxes. A sidebar discusses how the law affects gift, estate and generation-skipping transfer (GST) rates and exemptions.
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Community involvement – Reaching out to the neighborhood can benefit family businesses
February / March 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 514
Abstract: This article looks at the fictitious case of George and Linda, small-business owners who realize that they can’t match the prices offered by big-box retailers. To compete, they decide to become more involved in the community. This article shows how fostering strong connections to the community can keep customers coming back.
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(Don’t) charge it! Educate your college-age child on the downsides of credit card debt
February / March 2011
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 678
Abstract: Students’ understanding of credit is becoming just as important as their ability to write top-notch term papers. Without it, today’s college students could be setting themselves up with debt loads (not even counting student loans) that may take years to pay off and hinder their ability to purchase cars or homes, or even to start their careers. This article offers tips for showing new students how to use credit cards responsibly. A sidebar shows how the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 offers college students new protections from overzealous credit card marketers.