1. Entity Selection – First, you must decide what type of business entity you are going to establish. The type of business entity will determine which tax form you have to file. The most common types of businesses are the sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, S corporation and limited liability company. This office can assist you in making that determination and setting up the chosen entity. Depending on the type of entity you choose, you may also need the services of an attorney to complete legal documents required to establish the business.

2. Taxes – The type of business you operate determines what taxes you must pay and how you pay them. The four general types of business taxes are income tax, self-employment tax, employment tax and excise tax. This office can assist you with the filings required for whichever business entity you select.

3. EIN – An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is generally used to identify a business entity. If you organize your business as a partnership or corporation, you will need an EIN. If you operate as a sole proprietorship, you will also need an EIN if you have employees or a Keogh pension plan. This office can assist you in determining your need for an EIN and help you obtain one.

4. Local Business License – Depending upon the community in which your business is located, you may also be required to obtain a business tax permit (which is sometimes referred to as a business license). This office can help you determine the need for one and assist with filing the application.

5. Sales Tax Permit – If the new business has retail sales, you will need to obtain a sales tax permit and periodically remit the sales tax collected from the sales. This office can assist you with obtaining the permit and setting up the payments. Even if you won’t be operating a retail sales business, you may need to register with the state for use tax purposes. Again, this office can help you with that registration if it is required.

6. Payroll – If you have employees, you will have to withhold and remit payroll taxes to the federal, state and sometimes local governments. We can help you set up your payroll system and register with the appropriate governmental agencies.

7. Information Reporting – If you make payments totaling $600 or more for the year to individuals who are not your employees, you will be required to issue a 1099-MISC to that individual shortly after the end of the year. This requires obtaining the individual’s name, SSN, and address prior to paying them for the first time. This requirement is extended to payments you make to corporations in 2012. This office can help you establish a procedure for collecting the required information and preparing the required filings after the close of the year.

8. Recordkeeping System – Establishing a good recordkeeping system right away can save a lot of grief in the future. This office can assist you in selecting and setting up a recordkeeping system suited to your business.

9. Accounting Method – Each taxpayer must also use a consistent accounting method, which is a set of rules for determining when to report income and expenses. The most commonly used accounting methods are the cash method and an accrual method. Under the cash method, you generally report income in the tax year you receive it and deduct expenses in the tax year you pay them. Under an accrual method, you generally report income in the tax year you earn it and deduct expenses in the tax year you incur them.

In closing, it is always easier and less expensive to set things up correctly in the first place than it is to fix the mistakes later. Even if you plan to accomplish some of the tasks listed above yourself, we highly recommend you consult with this office to ensure you are doing what is needed correctly and on time. There may also be other issues not included above that also need to be dealt with when setting up your particular business.

Normally, one would think that Congress would have to take some action to increase taxes. However, it is quite the opposite for 2011. If Congress fails to take action, there will be a tax increase affecting just about everyone in every tax category. In order to skirt a Senate rule that requires 60 votes to pass a bill that increases the deficit beyond a ten-year window, Congress passed the Bush tax cuts in 2001 and 2003 with most provisions designed to sunset this year.

Despite President Obama’s vow of no new taxes for individuals earning less than $200,000 and families earning less than $250,000, stopping these tax increases from taking place will require Congressional action. However, not only are we in an election year – when most of our politicians tend to steer away from tax-related discussions before voting day – Congress is looking for ways to make up some of the budget deficit, and many legislators consider extending the current laws to be too costly. So, we may not see any action on tax increases or extensions until late in November, if then.

To put this all in perspective, the following is a list of some of the automatic tax changes that have already taken place in 2010 or will take place in 2011 and subsequent years as a result of expiring or new tax laws.

Those Affecting 2010:

o Non-Itemizers Real Property Tax Deduction – The $500 ($1,000 for joint filers) property tax deduction for non-itemizers expired after 2009. This most likely will impact lower-income taxpayers, or those whose homes are mortgage-free and have no home interest expense, and who are unable to itemize their deductions. For taxpayers in the 15% tax bracket, this equates to a $75 tax increase (or $150 for joint filers).

o Sales Tax in Lieu of State Income Tax – The option to deduct sales tax in lieu of state income tax as an itemized deduction on a taxpayer’s Schedule A expired after 2009. Although this will impact taxpayers with low state income taxes and those that purchased vehicles, boats or airplanes, it will have the greatest impact on taxpayers in states where there is no state income tax and thus no state income tax deduction to take in place of the expiring sales tax deduction.

o Farm Losses – For tax years beginning after 2009, the Farm Act limits the farming loss of a taxpayer, other than a C corporation, for any tax year in which any applicable subsidies are received. The losses are limited to the greater of (a) $300,000 ($150,000 for a married person filing separately), or (b) the taxpayer’s total net farm income for the prior five tax years.

o Alternative Minimum Tax – Way back in 2001, Congress increased the AMT exemption to keep middle-class taxpayers from being caught up in this punitive tax and have been inflation adjusting and extending it on an annual basis in recent years. However, they seem reluctant to adjust it for 2010. If they do not, the exemption will return to $45,000 for joint filers (down from $70,950 in 2009) and $33,750 (down from $46,700 in 2009) for unmarried individuals. This will generally snare middle-income taxpayers, and the tax bite can range upwards to several thousand dollars.

o Teacher’s Classroom Supplies Deduction – The $250 above-the-line deduction for teacher classroom supplies expired after 2009.

o Above-the-Line Education Deduction – The up-to-$4,000 above-the-line deduction for education expenses (tuition and fees) expired after 2009.

Those Affecting 2011:

o Tax Rates – As part of the Bush era tax cuts, the marginal tax rates (they increase with taxable income) were reduced to 10, 15, 25, 28 and 33 percent. These rates are set to return to their original levels of 15, 28, 31, 36 and 39.6 percent. The 10% and 15% brackets will be replaced with a single 15% bracket. This results in an increase for everyone. Those in the previously lowest bracket (10%) will see a tax increase of approximately 5%, while others will see increases ranging approximately from 2% to 6%. In addition, an expanded 15% bracket for a married couple filing a joint return has applied for several years as relief for the “marriage penalty.” This will not apply as of 2011. Instead, the top of the 15% bracket for joint returns will be about 167% of the end point for single returns rather than the 200% it has been.

o Capital Gains Rates – Also, as part of the Bush era cuts, the capital gains rates were substantially reduced, but will return to their old levels of 10% for anyone in the 15% regular tax bracket and 20% for all others. That is up from 0% and 15% in 2010. This will impact investors, business owners and home owners when they sell a capital asset.

o Qualified Dividends – Generally, qualified dividend income is dividend income from stock held for 60 days or longer before the ex-dividend date. These dividends, for a number of years, have been taxed at capital gains rates (0% – 15%). However, the law providing these beneficial rates expires at the end of 2010 and all dividend income will be taxed at ordinary income rates (15% to 39.6%). This will generally impact investors holding income stocks and mutual funds. These individuals will see an overall tax increase greater than just the general 2% to 6% rise noted above.

o Earned Income Credit – This refundable credit currently has four categories of low-income working taxpayers, with the credit increasing as the number of children increase, up to three or more. In 2011, the “three or more children” category will go away, and taxpayers with three or more children will have to use the two or more category. This can reduce the credit for low-income taxpayers with three or more children by up to about $600.

o Child Credit – The tax law provides a tax credit for each of a taxpayer’s children under the age of 17. This credit will drop to $500 (was $1,000 in 2010) per child. Since this credit phases out for higher-income taxpayers, it will generally impact lower-income taxpayers.

o American Opportunity Education Credit (AOEC) – This credit took the place of the Hope Education credit in 2009 and 2010. Where the Hope Credit is non-refundable (can only offset one’s income tax liability), the AOEC was 40% refundable, and where the Hope Credit is for only the first two years of post-secondary education expenses, the AOEC allowed a credit for the first four years of post-secondary education expenses. In addition, prior to 2009, the Hope credit was limited to a maximum of $1,800 per student but the AOEC maximum was $2,500 per student. If the AOEC is not extended, low-income taxpayers will lose out on the refundable feature of the AOEC and those students in their third and fourth year of post-secondary education. Middle-income taxpayers will also be affected, because the point at which the credit phases out due to income limitations was 60% higher under the AOEC than under the Hope credit rules. Higher-income taxpayers are generally not affected since both credits are phased out for higher-income taxpayers.

o Employer Education Assistance – Employers are allowed to provide up to $5,250 of tax-free educational benefits. This provision expires and is no longer available after 2010. The net effect of this expiring benefit is based on the student’s tax bracket. For example, if the student’s employer provided the full $5,250 of benefits, and the student is in the 28% tax bracket, the loss of the tax-free benefit would equate to a $1,470 tax increase.

o Business Expense Deduction – Sec 179 of the tax code allows taxpayers to expense rather than depreciate certain tangible business assets and equipment in the year of purchase. For 2011, the amount that can be written off in a tax year will be $25,000, down from $250,000. This will generally impact mid-size businesses that are planning substantial equipment purchases in excess of $25,000 in the near future.

o Standard Deduction – In 2010, the standard deduction of taxpayers filing married joint status is twice the amount of someone filing under the single status. Beginning in 2011, the so-called marriage penalty is back: joint filers’ standard deduction will be only 167% (instead of 200%) of the single amount. For a married couple in the 28% bracket, the result is additional tax of about $525.

o Phase-Out of Personal Exemptions – For years before 2006, the personal exemptions were phased out for high-income taxpayers. Then, in 2006 through 2010, that phase-out was gradually reduced to where there is no phase-out in 2010. However, the reduction will no longer apply after 2010, and, in 2011, the phase-out reverts to the rules in effect before 2006. This only impacts high-income taxpayers. Although the phase-out threshold income amounts for 2011 are not currently available, they will be approximately $250,000 for a married couple, $210,000 for head of household and $170,000 for single individuals. The loss of each exemption for a high-income taxpayer in the 36% tax bracket will result in an additional tax of approximately $1,300. Thus, a family of four would see an increase of $5,200.

o Phase-Out of Itemized Deductions – At the same time that the exemption phase-out was being reduced (see immediately preceding item), the phase-out of itemized deductions for high-income taxpayers was also being reduced. Thus, for 2011, the high-income taxpayer’s itemized deduction phase-out returns. The phase-out impacts all deductions other than medical, investment interest, casualty and gambling losses. The deductions are phased out by an amount equal to 3% of the taxpayer’s AGI in excess of the AGI phase-out threshold, but not more than 80% of the deductions can be phased out. The phase-out threshold for most individuals will be approximately $170,000, which is significantly less than the exemption phase-out amount for married joint or head of household filers. The tax impact on an affected taxpayer will be 28% to 39.6% of the lost deductions.

o Coverdell Accounts – The contribution limit to Coverdell education savings accounts will be reduced from $2,000 per year to $500, tax-free distributions will no longer be allowed for elementary and secondary education (only post-secondary education), education credits will not be allowed in the same year as a Coverdell distribution, and contributions cannot be made to a Coverdell account and a Sec 529 plan in the same year.

o Home Energy Improvement Credit – The $1,500 credit for making improvements that increase the energy efficiency of a taxpayer’s home expires after 2010.

o Hybrid & Lean Burn Credits – Most manufacturers have reached the 60,000 unit maximum after which the credit is reduced or no longer allowed. As a result, this credit will have very limited application in 2011.

o Health Savings Accounts – The penalty for a nonqualified distribution from an HSA has been increased from 10% to 20% and distribution for over-the-counter medication is no longer a qualified distribution.

o Making Work Pay Credit – Expires after 2010. This refundable credit of $800 for joint filers and $400 for unmarried individuals phases out for higher-income taxpayers so the loss of the credit impacts middle- to low-income taxpayers.

o Higher Education Interest Deduction – This deduction will phase-out for joint filing taxpayers beginning at an AGI of $60,000 (down from $120,000 in 2010). The phase-out for an unmarried taxpayer remains the same. In addition, the deduction is limited to interest paid on the first 60 months (was previously unlimited) in which interest payments are required. This will impact higher-income joint filers and taxpayers who have already exceeded the 60-month limitation.

o Estate Tax – The estate tax, which was eliminated for 2010, returns in 2011 with an exemption of $1 million dollars (down from $3.5 million in 2009), and a maximum tax rate of 55%, up from 45%.

On top of all these changes, there are the Health Care provisions that are taking effect in 2013, including the following: increasing the medical deduction floor to 10% for most individuals (up from 7.5%), adding a 3.8% unearned income surtax to high-income taxpayers, and tacking on an additional .9% to the current 1.45% hospitalization insurance (HI) portions of the FICA withholding (or the SE tax in case of self-employed individuals). The surtax and additional HI withholding apply to incomes in excess of $250,000 for married joint filers, $125,000 for married individuals filing separately and $200,000 for others.

It is anticipated that Congress will extend certain provisions and perhaps limit high-income taxpayers from benefiting from those extended provisions. We will advise you when changes are made.

If you have questions related to any of these issues or would like to set up a planning appointment, please give this office a call.

Excerpt from Clientwhys Monthly Newsletter

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It can happen to even the most meticulous filer: after sending off your e-return to the IRS or dropping it in the mail, you notice an error. After the initial flurry of panic, you can relax—your return may technically be out of your hands, but it’s not set in stone just yet.

The IRS has factored in a margin of error for busy taxpayers by providing the Form 1040X. The “X-file” allows you to specify what you reported on your original return, where the error was made, and what the correct figures are. You can even use the form to add or remove dependents or change your filing status. The IRS allows you to file an amendment up to three years after the original filing date.

Below are a few CPA-recommended tips for filing the Form 1040X:

• Indicate the year of the return you’re correcting and include detailed explanations on the back of the form.
• Be sure to include any additional forms or scheduled associated with the change you’re making.
• If you’re amending multiple returns, use a separate form for each year and mail them in separate envelopes.
• Check to make sure your correction doesn’t affect your state taxes; if so, you’ll need to file a separate correction.
• There’s no need to file a Form 1040X if you made a mathematical error on your return; this will be automatically detected and adjusted by the IRS.

Depending on the nature of your error, filing an amended return with the 1040X may work in your favor or could end up costing you. If you neglected to include a source of income in the original return, you’ll probably wind up paying more or receiving less of a refund. But if you’re using the Form 1040X to include an overlooked deductible, you’ll end up reaping some monetary rewards.

Either way, you’re legally bound to correct any errors. It can be tempting to let them slip by, but it’s likely that the IRS will find them sooner or later, and you could face steep interest fees.

There are some additional stipulations and exceptions surrounding tax return amendments. To make sure you cover all your bases, it’s best to consult with your CPA if you discover an error.

As we head into the heart of December, it’s time to start planning year-end tax strategies. There are several ways to maximize your 2009 savings by minimizing your taxable income through smart deductions. Below are a few tips:

• Retirement contributions: If you haven’t already reached the limit, now is the time to max out your contribution to your corporate 401K account. If you don’t work for a company, you might also consider contributing to a traditional IRA or SEP (self-employed) IRA. Your CPA can help you identify which retirement plans must be funded before the end of 2009, and which can be funded after the New Year.
• New vehicle deductions: Are you planning to buy a new car, truck, motorcycle, or RV in the coming year? If you complete the purchase before the New Year, you may be eligible to write off the sales tax as a deduction, depending on the amount of your total household income.
• Homebuyer and homeowner credit: In 2009, legislature was passed that granted first-time home buyers up to $8,000 in tax credits. This deduction is limited to taxpayers who have not bought a home in the last three years and whose incomes are below the maximum limit. If you’re planning to purchase a home in the near future, doing so before the end of the year will increase your 2009 tax savings. In addition, current homeowners may be eligible to deduct up to $6,500 in tax credits.
• Eco-friendly appliances: Federally funded programs are offering special rebates for appliances—furnaces, dishwashers, refrigerators, and washers and dryers, among others—that have earned an Energy Star rating for environmentally friendly design. Rebate values vary by state, ranging from $50-$200 per product, so be sure to check with your CPA for details.
• Business expenses: If you own a business or do independent consulting work, now’s the time to tally up your receipts and determine the amount that can be deducted as work-related expenses. If you’re anticipating any large business purchases in the coming months, you might consider making them now to boost your deductions. Your CPA can also help you analyze how depreciation schedules might impact your tax situation.

Remember, every situation is different, and this is just a sampling of end-of-year tax considerations. To make sure you’re taking advantage of all eligible tax deductions, it’s best to consult with a qualified tax professional. With the proper planning and guidance, you can kick off the New Year with some extra cash to spare.

Although there’s no surefire way to bullet-proof yourself against a tax audit, a good CPA can help make the process less painful by offering helpful tips like these:

1. Keep records for at least the past three years. The IRS typically initiates audits within 18 months of a filing, but by law they have up to three years before the statute of limitations ends. By having all of your forms and receipts organized and easily accessible, you’ll greatly reduce stress in the event of an audit. When you work with a CPA, you’ll receive all of the year’s tax documents neatly packaged for your files.
2. Avoid math mistakes. Although a numbers blunder doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be audited, honest mistakes can result in increased attention from the IRS, which is rarely a good thing. A CPA will check all calculations meticulously before submitting your return.
3. Acknowledge red flags before the IRS does. If you have an unusually large deduction or another anomaly, include copies of all related documentation to head off any confusion or suspicion. The IRS agent examining your return will recognize your efforts to remain compliant.
4. Be cooperative. Remember, an auditor is just doing his or her job. If you react belligerently, you could be opening yourself up to closer scrutiny. Clearly and politely answer the questions that are asked of you, but don’t volunteer additional information. When you treat the auditor with respect, you’ll most likely find the experience to be less unpleasant than you anticipated. One of the bonuses of working with a CPA is that he or she will negotiate directly with the IRS on your behalf.

Facing a tax audit can be scary, but you don’t have to do it alone. Above all, the most effective tool you can have is a qualified CPA. A certified tax professional can guide you through the process, address your questions and concerns, and prevent common pitfalls, all of which will help you get through the ordeal with the least possible amount of pain and hassle.

If you think an accountant’s role is limited to preparing and filing annual tax returns, it’s time to adjust your expectations. Many of our new clients are pleasantly surprised to find out how much work we’re prepared to take off their plate.

One of the biggest mistakes business owners can make is withholding information from their CPAs. While basic financial data— W2 and 1099 forms, real estate interest statements, receipts for business expenses—is important, we dig deeper to ensure a clear understanding of our clients’ businesses and long-term goals. Below are some of the most important things to convey to your tax professional before tax season:

• Major life changes. These can apply to your personal or professional life. Examples of events to share with your accountant include the merger or sale of a business, the purchase of a new property, or an impending divorce or marriage. Any of these things can impact the distribution of your business profits.
• Projected income changes. Whether you anticipate fiscal challenges or you’re about to launch a revolutionary new product that promises to boost your revenue, it’s wise to let your accountant know what you’re expecting. Your CPA can help with any cash flow or re-investment concerns.
• Retirement goals. Do you have a timetable for when you’d like to retire? As a self-employed entrepreneur, are you unclear on the differences between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA? Regardless of your age, it’s never too early—or too late—to discuss retirement options with your CPA.
• New projects or investments. If your business is venturing into new markets or about to start offering a new product or service, this change in direction could have an impact on your tax strategies.

As you approach tax season, a well-informed CPA is one of the most important business tools in your repertoire. The more your tax advisor knows about your current situation and long-term plans, the better he or she can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

You wouldn’t set off on a cross-country journey without your GPS system—so why risk navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of business ownership without a qualified tax professional to guide you?

Considering the proven benefits of hiring a Certified Public Accountant, it’s surprising that a significant number of business owners don’t use one. What’s stopping them? Below are a few of the most common reasons we’ve heard, along with some facts to set the record straight.

Excuse #1: “I built my business from the ground up. Surely I can handle filing a tax return.”

While it’s true that the most basic tax returns can be completed with relative ease, a CPA’s services go well beyond filling out a few forms and sending them to the IRS. A good accountant will provide financial guidance throughout the entire year, not just during busy tax season. He or she will help you create a long-term strategy for growth and success, looking beyond the numbers to identify the unique challenges and goals of your business.

Some entrepreneurs and start-up business owners are used to doing everything themselves, and that “DIY” mentality can extend to their taxes. While it can be tempting to try and save some money by taking care of your own accounting needs, it’s important to understand that enlisting the services of a CPA doesn’t mean you’re incapable—to the contrary, it signifies that you care enough about your business to invest in its growth and dedicate more resources to essential areas.

Excuse #2: “I’ll just go online or buy a book to find all the tax information I need.”

Although there is extensive information available on the Internet and in tax books, no amount of singlehanded research can replace the benefits of a personal relationship with a CPA. When you meet with a tax professional, he or she will be able to get a clear picture of your goals and challenges, analyze the nuances of your situation, and make a customized recommendation. While knowledge and education are essential, they’re most effective when combined with a face-to-face consultation that’s driven by YOUR individual needs.

Excuse #3: “My business isn’t big enough to warrant a CPA.”

It’s a common misconception that only very large, lucrative businesses need a CPA. The truth is, companies of all sizes and profit margins can benefit from the services of a tax professional. An experienced CPA can help with all aspects of your business financials—tax returns, bookkeeping, payroll, financial analysis, in-depth reporting, and more. This will allow you to dedicate more resources to revenue-boosting activities, such as marketing strategies, product development, and client satisfaction.

Excuse #4: “I can’t afford to hire a CPA.”

Considering the significant tax and efficiency savings provided by a good CPA, a more accurate statement would be “I can’t afford NOT to hire a CPA.” With our reasonable rates and value-adding services, our professional tax services are a no-brainer investment in the success of your business.