Key Takeaways Beginning in 2026, many employer-provided meals such as breakroom snacks and on-site lunches are no longer tax deductible under updated IRS rules. Business meals with clients and meals during overnight travel remain 50% deductible when properly documented. Certain events, such as company-wide celebrations or meals treated as taxable compensation, may still qualify for
Key Takeaways A large tax refund or low tax bill does not automatically indicate financial success. Tax returns are backward-looking and limited in what they reveal about cash flow, profitability, and long-term stability. Business success is better measured by factors like sustainable cash flow, retained earnings, and strategic planning. Over-focusing on minimizing taxes can obscure
Your Tax Return Isn’t a Measure of Success Read More »
Key Takeaways The federal R&D tax credit is legitimate but far narrower than many promoters suggest. Qualifying activities must meet the IRS’s strict four-part test, including technical uncertainty and experimentation. Routine improvements, off-the-shelf technology adoption, and standard process changes generally do not qualify. The IRS is closely scrutinizing R&D claims, particularly those pushed by aggressive
Is Your Business Really Eligible for R&D Credits Read More »
Key Takeaways Trump Accounts are a new federal, tax-advantaged savings option for children, available starting with the 2026 tax season. Eligible children (born 2025–2028) may receive a one-time $1,000 federal contribution when an account is opened. Annual contributions are generally capped at $5,000 per child and may come from parents, relatives, and in some cases
Evaluating Trump Accounts in Your Financial Plan Read More »
Key Takeaways Recent changes to how mail is processed make last-minute filing riskier than many business owners realize. The postmark issue highlights a larger problem: tax season leaves little room for delays or missing information. Small and mid-sized businesses face added complexity around payroll, cash flow, and ownership decisions. Sharing information with your CPA early
Why the Postmark Change Is a Wake-Up Call for Business Tax Planning Read More »
Key Takeaways Growth transactions introduce long-term tax and cash-flow consequences that aren’t always obvious upfront. How a deal is structured affects deductions, reporting, and future flexibility. Timing matters—especially for equipment, build-outs, and new hires. Expansion often increases scrutiny around documentation, payroll, and depreciation. Early planning with your CPA can prevent years of avoidable complexity. Growth
What Business Owners Should Think Through Before They Grow in 2026 Read More »
Key Takeaways Many high-impact business deductions remain available in 2026, but documentation standards continue to tighten. Mileage, equipment, payroll, retirement, and professional fees are still powerful—if tracked correctly. Timing matters more than ever when it comes to depreciation and expensing. The IRS is placing greater emphasis on consistency, substantiation, and recordkeeping. The most effective tax
2026 Business Tax Deductions: What Still Works, What’s Evolving, and How to Plan Ahead Read More »
Crowdfunding has become one of the most common ways for families, small businesses, and communities to support people in need. Whether it’s helping a neighbor with medical bills, assisting a local business after a fire, or supporting a friend experiencing hardship, GoFundMe and similar platforms make giving quick and easy. But when tax season arrives,
Are GoFundMe Donations Tax Deductible? Read More »
Key Takeaways Retirement contribution limits are increasing across 401(k), IRA, and other plans beginning in 2026. Higher caps offer business owners more room for tax-advantaged savings and stronger retention tools for top employees. New rules require certain high-income employees to make catch-up contributions as Roth (after-tax) contributions. Reviewing plan design and contribution strategy before year-end
2026 Inflation Adjustments to Retirement Limits Read More »
Key Takeaways A major tax change is coming: student loan forgiveness under IDR becomes taxable again starting January 1, 2026, unless Congress extends current relief. Borrowers nearing the 20- or 25-year forgiveness point could face thousands, or even tens of thousands, in unexpected federal taxes. Increased taxable income may reduce eligibility for key credits such
The Student Loan Forgiveness Tax Change That Could Blindside You in 2026 Read More »
Key Takeaways The Fed’s recent rate cut to around 3.75-4% makes borrowing and refinancing more affordable for Connecticut businesses. Lower rates can boost consumer spending and business confidence, offering potential growth opportunities. Despite the upside, inflation and market uncertainty mean this window for low-cost borrowing may be temporary. Revisit your debt structure and cash flow
The Fed Lowers Interest Rates for Second Straight Time Read More »
Key Takeaways The IRS remains open during the shutdown, but processing refunds and correspondence is significantly slower. Businesses should expect cash-flow disruptions if clients rely on government contracts or regulated industries. SBA loan delays could affect refinancing, expansion, or new equipment purchases. Benefit and insurance premiums may rise due to uncertainty in federal oversight. Proactive
Your Business & the Government Shutdown Read More »