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Showing all 11 results
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Sidestep the probate process to avoid the public eye
May / June 2020
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Probate can be time consuming and expensive, and perhaps its biggest downside is that it’s public. In fact, anyone who’s interested can find out what assets a person owned and how they’re being distributed after one’s death. This article takes a closer look at the details of the probate process and strategies available to keep much or even all of one’s estate out of probate.
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Keep your eye on the ball – Plan forfeitures must match plan document
August / September 2018
Newsletter: Employee Benefits Update
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: It’s a routine matter for employees to forfeit retirement plan benefits. Even so, plan sponsors can’t afford to become blasé about it; ERISA demands more than an “easy come, easy go” attitude about the matter. This article reviews how plans can forfeit benefits and when benefits are forfeited. A short sidebar covers what plans can do with forfeited funds.
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To merge or not to merge? 5 suggestions for making a good decision
Summer 2017
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: The past year has reaped a bumper crop of law firm mergers. While such announcements garner headlines, less attention is paid to the fact that nearly half of law firm mergers fail to meet financial and other expectations. This article reviews five critical factors firms mulling mergers should consider and includes a sidebar reviewing both good and bad reasons for firms to merge.
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5 best practices for improving collections
Fall 2016
Newsletter: Law Firm Management
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Unlike other businesses, which often stop providing goods and services until clients pay their bill, attorneys generally can’t withdraw representation while waiting for a client to remit an invoice. This article suggests other ways to improve collections, including billing promptly, checking invoices for accuracy and following up with clients as soon as a payment is late. A sidebar helps attorneys avoid the conditions that lead to late payments.
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Spotting the warning signs that a customer isn’t planning to pay
August / September 2014
Newsletter: Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Collecting from clients and customers is a critical job, especially when large amounts of money are involved. While it’s impossible to fully identify deadbeat clients in advance, this article offers ways to get ahead of the game by paying attention to certain warning signs and then employing specific tactics to combat the problem. If all else fails, a sidebar discusses whether it’s worth the time and expense to pursue legal action.
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Why crowdfunding may not live up to its billing
June / July 2014
Newsletter: Public Company Insights
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: One provision of 2012’s JOBS Act creates an exemption from SEC registration for companies that wish to sell securities over the Internet through “crowdfunding” — a method of raising money through small contributions from large numbers of people. Some companies may be able to use crowdfunding to attract investors worldwide without an expensive, time-consuming public offering. However, it’s not yet clear whether it will become a viable alternative for attracting equity capital in practice. This article provides answers to some common questions about crowdfunding, while a sidebar looks at some other financing alternatives.
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Do you qualify for the manufacturers’ deduction?
Summer 2012
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 introduced the manufacturers’ deduction for domestic production activities income. Also known as the “Section 199 deduction” or the “domestic production activities deduction,” it’s designed primarily for large companies, but it can yield big savings for small businesses as well. This article lists activities that qualify and shows how to calculate the deduction. For those who haven’t qualified for the manufacturers’ deduction because of a net operating loss (NOL), a sidebar explains how to take advantage of the NOL carryback and carryforward provisions.
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Working toward a successful M&A – Without solid due diligence, an M&A can be fraught with disaster
Spring 2012
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: A merger or an acquisition can be a long — and delicate — process, and there’s plenty that can go wrong before it’s over. To better the chances that an M&A will be a success, up-front due diligence work is a must. This article explains what to look for in the financials, but also discusses other aspects of a company’s operations that merit scrutiny, including employee attitudes, the customer base and IT operations.
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Being elastic can be fantastic – Stretch your retirement savings for yourself and your heirs
January / February 2010
Newsletter: Estate Planner
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Those with savings in a traditional IRA, a 401(k) plan or another “qualified” retirement account must begin taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) when they reach age 70½. But it’s usually best to let them continue compounding on a tax-deferred basis (or tax-free in the case of Roth accounts) as long as possible. Fortunately, there are several strategies one can use to stretch tax savings over many years. Beginning in 2010, converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA will be an option for people of all income levels. One can also roll over a Roth 401(k) or Roth 403(b) to a Roth IRA. And a “stretch” IRA allows one to provide heirs with the opportunity to stretch distributions over many years. But these all have pros and cons that must be considered.
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Leveraging charitable gifts with life insurance
Winter 2009
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Using life insurance to make contributions to the charities of your choice can be a win-win for both parties. You make tax-advantaged gifts while paying on the “installment plan” with minimal impact on your estate, and the charities receive substantial gifts with a predictable value. This article explains the basic concepts behind such contributions and what you need to consider regarding the tax impact of the gift. A sidebar provides useful information on income limitations for charitable contribution deductions for public charities and private foundations.
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Uncover your company’s key value drivers
August / September 2008
Newsletter: Merger & Acquisition Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 804
Abstract: Many tangible and intangible qualities can enhance a buyer’s perceived value of a company, help close the deal and even land a higher-than-expected purchase price. These key value drivers vary by company, industry and buyer needs, but often include proprietary technologies, market position, brand names, diverse product lines and patented products. But most buyers also look for companies with solid, diversified customer bases, realistic growth strategies and effective management.