Individual tax return deadline moved to May 17 (June 15 for Texas Filers) Congress’ recent move to retroactively make a portion of 2020 unemployment income tax-free is creating havoc during this year’s tax filing season. Here is what you need to know. Background Unemployment compensation was received by millions of Americans during 2020 because of…

Get Your Contractor or Employee Classification Right! Tax challenges can be VERY expensive As a small business owner, you may face the issue of whether to classify workers as employees or as independent contractors. Classifying your workers as independent contractors generally saves you money. That’s because you avoid paying employment taxes and benefits on their…

The New World of Bank Reconciliations Here’s a look at the new world of bank reconciliations and some ideas to use to ensure your bank account is accurate. The bank reconciliation purpose In a nutshell, a bank reconciliation ensures your account is accurate. This is done by comparing all your activity with what the bank…

Your Turn! New and Classic Board Games Board games are making a comeback during the pandemic as everyone looks to stay engaged during more stay-at-home time. Here are four of the most popular board games of all time and a corresponding board game similar to the classic game that you and your family may enjoy…

Answers to Common Tax Questions With the April 15 tax filing deadline right around the corner, here are answers to some common tax questions. When will I get my refund? The pandemic and additional stimulus payments will, in all probability, delay refund payments. But as of now here are the old wait times to receive your…

How companies use your identity and what you can do to protect it. One of the most valuable things you own is YOU. Your identity includes the basics – where you live, your age, and your gender. But it also includes your interests, who you know, and what you buy. So, do you know who…

Here are some suggestions to help you master the art of documenting and organizing your business now and in the future. Document policies and procedures. Write down daily responsibilities, skills needed to complete tasks related to these responsibilities, and the location of all paper and electronic files. Appoint and cross-train backup staff to ensure these daily…

Don’t get shocked by a high tax bill! Be prepared for these pandemic-related tax surprises when you file your 2020 tax return. Taxes on unemployment Income. If you received unemployment benefits in 2020, you need to report these benefits on your tax return as taxable income. Check to see if either federal or state taxes were…

Here are four ways to make sure the preparation of your tax return keeps humming along until it gets filed. Keep tax documents in one place. Missing items is one of the biggest reasons filing a tax return gets delayed! Find a place in your home and put all tax documents in this one place as…

Common New Year’s resolutions are to lose weight or become more active. Perhaps 2021 is the year to shift focus. Here are seven tips to help you become more financially fit. Create a budget. It’s easy to get into financial trouble if you spend more than you earn. By watching your budget more carefully, you…