Returning Value Blog

There’s little doubt that the economy as a whole closed out 2016 on a particularly high note as the Dow Jones Industrial Average nearly reached the unprecedented 20,000 mark. But despite that broad performance, did the manufacturing sector in particular fare similarly well during this past year?

Section 179 provides generous tax break

There is a unique tax break for business entities of all shapes and sizes contained in Section 179 of the Internal Revenue Code. Under this section, a business can elect to “expense,” or currently deduct, the cost of qualified property placed in service during the year, up to a maximum level. It is near-instant tax gratification.

Machen McChesney has been providing business owners peace of mind by assisting them in a wide array of challenges that exist.  We understand that running a business can present a challenging endeavor for any individual to pursue on their own.  Our professionals have spent years honing expertise in a wide range of business advisory services and will look for ways to add value to your business. 

Comparing two tax return methods

Do you operate a business out of your home? It could be your main line of work, and your only source of business income, or just a sideline activity. Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to a generous tax deduction for this “home office” on your 2016 tax return.

Welcome to 2017. As we move through January and get ever-closer to April 15, we are fast-approaching the 2016 year-end tax season. We understand just how stressful this time can be—and particularly so for individuals who are working to grow startup companies

Of course, taxes are a major concern when you work full time for a living. Unfortunately, you may also have to pay federal income tax on a portion of the Social Security benefits you receive during the year—even though you’ve paid Social Security tax all the years you have been working.

Business owners beware

Several filing deadlines have changed beginning this month. Under the 2015 PATH Act, beginning with forms filed in 2017, Forms 1099-MISC, used to report non-employee compensation must be filed on or before January 31 of the year following the calendar year to which such returns relates. And those returns are no longer eligible for the extended filing date for electronically filed returns. (Code Sec. 6071(c)) View 2017 filing instructions for Form 1099-MISC.

As 2016 draws to a close, the time to consider tax-saving opportunities for you and/or your business is before year-end. Individual income taxes, whether paid through employer withholding or quarterly estimates, are probably one of your largest annual expenditures. You may want to consider opportunities to reduce or defer your annual tax obligation. Also, if you own a business, some opportunities may apply regardless of whether your business is conducted as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company, S corporation, or a regular corporation. Other opportunities may apply only to a particular type of business organization. These Tax Planning Letters are intended to assist you in your individual and business tax planning efforts.

Machen McChesney has been assisting executors and trustees in managing administrative duties for over 60 years.  We understand that leaving an estate or trust to chance can result in significant tax consequences or even frozen assets. The complexity of it all is very confusing, which is why we can work together to help you achieve the future you seek for yourself and your family.