Returning Value Blog

Do you know the steps to take if you become a victim of identity theft? Now that it has become the fastest growing white collar crime in the U.S, we must all know how to proactively respond to ID theft. Combating the crime of identity theft is for the most part reactionary – in other words, something “bad” has already happened—taking a proactive approach can mitigate any potential future losses.

What should small business owners be focused on to ensure a smooth tax season?

While you started 2017 with the best of intentions to keep your financial records organized, you may find yourself scrambling to find receipts and other documentation to prepare your tax returns. All too often it is accounts receivable that presents that greatest challenge.

How to avoid underpayment penalties

Even though you just put your 2016 tax return to bed, you cannot rest easy. It is already time to pay attention to your tax liability for 2017. Significantly, you may be required to pay installments of “estimated tax” for this year, especially if you are self-employed or retired.

Reap tax rewards for travel and entertainment

What are your plans for the summer? If you have a business trip scheduled for a place you would like to visit personally, you might decide to combine a little pleasure with your business. Similarly, you may invite some of your best clients to your home for a Memorial Day or Fourth of July barbecue or treat them to a night out on the town.

Benefit from a rollover to an IRA

If you receive a distribution from an employer’s retirement plan, such as a 401(k), you are generally required to pay ordinary income tax on the payout. However, with a timely maneuver, you can continue to postpone paying the tax until you are ready to make withdrawals.

How to maximize the tax benefits

The summer rental season is about to kick off. If you own a vacation home in a resort area that you rent out while your family is not using it, you may be in line for valuable tax deductions. In fact, you might even qualify for a tax loss on the deal, but you must be careful to observe the complex tax rules.

If your business utilizes foreign employees (aka, aliens), it is critical that you correctly comply with IRS regulations concerning payments to foreign workers. Understanding and complying with these regulations is crucial. Still, businesses of nearly every size and scope seem to struggle with correctly reporting these kinds of wages.

Sadly, tax scams are a never-ending problem, and each year, we see a new crop emerge. While tactics may differ from one scam to another, each uses deception to try and separate you from your money—and in doing so, cause significant financial and personal harm.

Small-business owners must remain alert 

It seems to be in the news every other day: A trusted longtime employee is found guilty of embezzling money from his or her employer. This may give you momentary pause, but then it is likely that you will simply continue to go about your business. After all, this cannot happen to you—can it? 

Compare actual expenses with flat-rate method

Did you use your vehicle for business driving in 2016? Generally, you can deduct expenses on your tax return in one of two ways: the actual expense method or the IRS-approved standard mileage rate. Here is a brief comparison: