As tax season approaches, many small business owners are leaving money on the table by overlooking valuable deductions. Staying informed about tax law changes and exploring lesser-known breaks can significantly reduce your taxable income. Here are some often-overlooked deductions to help you keep more of your hard-earned money:
No one wants to face an IRS audit, yet certain mistakes during tax season can increase your chances of being flagged. Here are five common missteps to avoid:
When selling business assets, understanding the tax implications is crucial. The IRS categorizes gains and losses into different types based on the asset sold and how long it was held. Here’s a breakdown of key tax classifications and how Section 1231 treatment can benefit business owners.
Quarterly taxes are a crucial part of running a business, but they can often feel overwhelming. Missing payments or underestimating your tax liability can lead to penalties. Here’s how to stay on top of your obligations:
Missing key tax deadlines can lead to penalties and cash flow headaches. Stay ahead by understanding important dates and implementing smart filing strategies. Here’s what every business owner should know:
When a sale and leaseback transaction qualifies as a sale, the sale and leaseback components must be accounted for separately.
Sale and leaseback transactions are a strategic financial tool businesses use to unlock cash flow while retaining operational control of critical assets. In such an arrangement, a seller transfers ownership of an asset to a buyer and immediately leases it back. This type of transaction can provide significant benefits to both parties: the seller-lessee gains liquidity and operational flexibility, while the buyer-lessor secures a steady income stream and potential tax advantages. However, determining whether a transaction qualifies as a sale and leaseback under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) involves navigating a complex set of criteria.
The nationwide price of gas is slightly higher than it was a year ago and the 2025 optional standard mileage rate used to calculate the deductible cost of operating an automobile for business has also gone up. The IRS recently announced that the 2025 cents-per-mile rate for the business use of a car, van, pickup or panel truck is 70 cents. In 2024, the business cents-per-mile rate was 67 cents per mile. This rate applies to gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles as well as electric and hybrid-electric vehicles.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate continues to be historically low, ranging from 4.0% to 4.3% from May to November of 2024. With today’s hiring challenges, business owners should be aware that the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is available to employers that hire workers from targeted groups who face significant barriers to employment. The tax credit is generally worth as much as $2,400 for each eligible employee (higher for certain veterans and “long-term family assistance recipients”). It’s generally limited to eligible employees who begin working for the employer before January 1, 2026.
Intangible assets, such as patents, trademarks, copyrights and goodwill, play a crucial role in today’s businesses. The tax treatment of these assets can be complex, but businesses need to understand the issues involved. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
