Many people are more concerned about their 2020 tax bills right now than they are about their 2021 tax situations. That’s understandable because your 2020 individual tax return is due to be filed in less than three months (unless you file an extension). However, it’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with tax amounts that … Read More
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IRS: Ford and Porsche Plug-In Vehicles
New Ford and Porsche models join the ranks of plug-in vehicles available for a lucrative tax break. Buyers of certain electric passenger vehicles and light trucks can claim a credit for up to $7,500. The models added by the IRS to the list of qualifying vehicles are the 2021 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid ($6,843 credit) … Read More
IRS: Child Tax Credit
Do you have a child age 17 or older or other dependent? You can’t claim the Child Tax Credit for these individuals but you may qualify for the Credit for Other Dependents. The maximum credit is $500 for each dependent who meets certain conditions. For example, the person can be: 1) a dependent age 17 … Read More
The many uses of a SWOT analysis
Using a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis to frame an important business decision is a long-standing recommended practice. But don’t overlook other, broader uses that could serve your company well. Performance factors A SWOT analysis starts by spotlighting internal strengths and weaknesses that affect business performance. Strengths are competitive advantages or core competencies … Read More
IRS: Accepting Tax Returns 2/12
The IRS begins accepting tax returns on Feb. 12. Ideally, you’ve been gathering tax records all year and have already made an appointment with us. Bring all W-2s, 1099s and documents about state tax refunds and other payments. You also may have received a Form 1095-A, B or C (Health Insurance statement) from your employer. … Read More
Financial keys to securing a commercial loan
Does your business need a loan? Before contacting your bank, it’s important to gather all relevant financial information to prove your business is creditworthy. By anticipating information requests, you can expedite the application process and improve your chances of approval. Lenders love GAAP U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) is a collection of specific accounting … Read More
2021 – 02/10 – IRS: Error Notices Sent to Tax Payers
More than 109,000 IRS notices were sent in error in January 2021, according to the National Tax Advocate (NTA). The notices (CP21C Letters) advised recipients who hadn’t received the first Economic Impact Payments (EIPs) that their payments had been applied to offset tax they owed from a prior year. The notices “are not accurate for … Read More
The cents-per-mile rate for business miles decreases again for 2021
This year, the optional standard mileage rate used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business decreased by one-and-one-half cents, to 56 cents per mile. As a result, you might claim a lower deduction for vehicle-related expenses for 2021 than you could for 2020 or 2019. This is the second year in … Read More
2021 – 02/09 – IRS: Self-Employed and COVID-19 Survivor?
Are you self-employed and a survivor of COVID-19? If so, you may be able to claim a sick and family leave tax credit under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The law allows certain self-employed individuals, who due to COVID-19 were unable to work or telework for reasons related to their health, to claim the … Read More
The power of the tax credit for buying an electric vehicle
Although electric vehicles (or EVs) are a small percentage of the cars on the road today, they’re increasing in popularity all the time. And if you buy one, you may be eligible for a federal tax break. The tax code provides a credit to purchasers of qualifying plug-in electric drive motor vehicles including passenger vehicles … Read More