Returning Value Blog

The IRS recently released its annual list of “Dirty Dozen” tax scams to watch out for in 2017. Here is a rundown gleaned from the IRS’ summary. 

Now that the dust of a contentious presidential election cycle is settling, tax reform may be more likely in 2017 than in past years.

Recently, BDO Alliance USA released their 2014 Restaurant Benchmarking Update. Compiling the operating results of publicly traded restaurant companies, this report looks at costs of sales across all segments for food and beverage.

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.