FOC
Showing 145–160 of 393 results
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Tax benefits for organizations that accommodate individuals with disabilities
Year End 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 447
Abstract: By accommodating individuals with disabilities, a business may qualify for several tax credits and deductions. This brief article lists several, among them the disabled access credit, the barrier removal tax deduction and the Work Opportunity tax credit. In this instance, doing what’s right also can be financially beneficial to a business.
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How to make the most of your defined contribution plan
Year End 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 630
Abstract: Most of us will depend on defined contribution plans, such as 401(k) or 403(b) plans, to fund much of our retirement. It’s important for employees to understand how to make the most of the money they’re saving — both short- and long-term. This article suggests some tips for doing so, including staying on top of matching contributions, being aware of the vesting schedule and monitoring fees.
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The enemy within – How can you prevent employee fraud?
Year End 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 627
Abstract: Occupational, or employee, fraud is an ongoing hazard to businesses’ bottom lines. It can take several forms, from skimming, to billing schemes, to corruption, to asset misappropriation. This article discusses ways business owners and management can prevent employee fraud and reduce its impact, such as separating duties and using physical controls. The article suggests that taking some of these commonsense steps can reduce the potential for employee fraud.
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Turn over a new leaf – 6 financial planning steps for the new year
Year End 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 884
Abstract: Many Americans use the change in calendar as motivation to tackle poor financial habits. For instance, at the end of last year, 36% of Americans considered making financial resolutions, according to the 2017 New Year Financial Resolutions Study by Fidelity Investments. This article offers some steps to take to save more, pay down debt and spend less. The article notes that making and sticking to financial resolutions can have a tangible positive impact. A sidebar discusses the question of whether saving or paying down debt is the best strategy.
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Fast track helps small businesses resolve IRS issues quickly
October / November 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 418
Abstract: Small business owners and self-employed individuals who need to resolve factual or legal issues between themselves and the IRS can turn to the Fast Track Settlement (FTS) program in the IRS’s Small Business/Self-Employed Division. This article explains when cases are eligible for FTS and how the application process works.
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What’s the state of your state taxes?
October / November 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 536
Abstract: State and local taxes probably aren’t the first thing we think of when we hear the word “taxes,” but they can add up to a significant amount. This article discusses some state tax issues to be aware of, such as the fact that rates and rules, including how property is taxed, often differ from state to state. The article emphasizes that individuals need to understand the tax implications of living, and working, in particular states — especially if they plan to move or accept a job in a neighboring state.
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Tax issues can affect kids, too
October / November 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 629
Abstract: Taxes can affect minors as well as adults. This article suggests that parents should familiarize themselves with the tax implications of the “kiddie tax,” hiring their children, and setting up IRAs for working teens. The article discusses the ins and outs of the kiddie tax and offers some tax guidelines for parents who hire their own children. In addition, it notes that tax issues surrounding children can be tricky — so good financial advice is key.
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Attract qualified employees with a retirement plan
October / November 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 850
Abstract: Retirement plans can benefit employers in multiple ways, from helping them attract and retain qualified employees to allowing tax deductions that can lower their companies’ tax bills. This article explains several types of retirement plans companies can offer employees. It also discusses the importance of ensuring plans remain in compliance with regulations, continuing to make required contributions, and keeping employees informed of changes in either their accounts or the plan.
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A delicate matter – Lending money to family and friends
August / September 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 434
Abstract: When making loans to friends or family members, it’s important for individuals to keep in mind some caveats to limit the risk, both to their bank accounts and to their relationships with the borrowers. This article lists some of these caveats, such as putting the terms of the loan in writing and insisting repayments be made via a method that can be tracked. The article notes that it’s also a good idea to be aware of potential tax implications.
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Secret to success: Fostering innovation
August / September 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 654
Abstract: One way to ensure a company’s sustained profitability and growth is to make innovation a priority. In an April 2017 survey, two-thirds of those business owners who experimented with new business practices to provide their customers with additional goods or services say they’re doing well. This article discusses how business owners can encourage innovation, including holding brainstorming sessions and working across departments. The article notes that these practices and others can ensure companies remain flexible and responsive to changing conditions and market demands.
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Nightmare scenario – Are you liable for fraudulent credit card debt?
August / September 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 696
Abstract: Taking a few simple steps can help cut the risk that credit cards will be used without permission or the owner’s knowledge — and can lessen the likelihood that they’ll be liable for any charges unauthorized users make. This article explains the policies that guide credit and debit card agreements, and how individuals can reduce the risk that they’ll become victims of fraud.
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Apply the research tax credit against payroll tax
August / September 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 844
Abstract: The rules have changed regarding the ability of small businesses that engage in research and development (R&D) to use the research tax credit. The change stems from the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, which was enacted in 2015. This article discusses how eligible businesses can take advantage of this valuable credit, according to the IRS guidance (Notice 2017-23). A sidebar shows what businesses must do to claim the research and development credit.
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Get to know required minimum distributions
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 426
Abstract: The government requires owners of many retirement accounts to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) by April 1 of the year after they turn 70½. This article provides some guidance on the rules for RMDs, including how they’re typically calculated. The article notes that owners of retirement accounts who fail to take the appropriate RMDs can face penalties of 50% of the amount that wasn’t withdrawn, but should have been.
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Deter deadbeat debtors: What are the red flags?
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 674
Abstract: Customers or clients who are slow to pay — or who don’t pay at all — can cause a business’s bottom line to go south in a hurry. This article explains some warning signs that business owners should be aware of to help prevent delinquent or missing payments, and lists steps owners can take, such as asking for a retainer or deposit up front before starting a project. The article also suggests that it’s a good idea to be polite, but assertive, if it becomes necessary to pursue missing payments.
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The ins and outs of naming a trustee
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 584
Abstract: When naming a trustee for a trust holding assets for a beneficiary or beneficiaries, it’s vital to make the right choice, because the trustee role carries significant legal responsibilities. Often the choice is between a person, such as a trusted friend or family member, or a financial institution. This article details a trustee’s responsibilities and discusses the qualities — and qualifications — a trustee must have. The article points out that, because of the sensitive responsibilities assumed and the length of time over which some trusts extend, many legal and financial professionals recommend engaging a corporate trustee, such as a bank or financial institution.
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Ready, set — grow!
June / July 2017
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 853
Abstract: It’s one thing for business owners to expect to grow their companies. But it’s another thing entirely to get from here to there. This article provides some commonsense guidelines to help owners achieve their growth goals, including developing a growth strategy, implementing solid processes and controls, and staying current with the latest technology. The article points out that, without ongoing strategic planning and communication, it’s easy to miss changes that might prompt necessary modifications to the company’s business practices. A sidebar notes the importance of fostering solid relationships with lenders and investors.