Sciarabba Walker Blog
The information in these blog posts is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for accounting, tax, or financial advice from a professional accountant. While we use reasonable efforts to furnish accurate and up-to-date information, we do not warrant that any information contained in or made available through this blog is current or error free. No part of this communication is intended to be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties under U.S. federal tax law.
Mutual funds: Handle with care at year end
As we approach the end of 2018, it’s a good idea to review the mutual fund holdings in your taxable accounts and take steps to avoid potential tax traps. Here are some tips: Avoid surprise capital gains Unlike with stocks, you cannot avoid capital gains on mutual...
Infographic: Donate appreciated art by year end
Buy business assets before year end to reduce your 2018 tax liability
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) has enhanced two depreciation-related breaks that are popular year-end tax planning tools for businesses. To take advantage of these breaks, you must purchase qualifying assets and place them in service by the end of the tax year. That...
Donate appreciated stock for twice the tax benefits
A tried-and-true year-end tax strategy is to make charitable donations. As long as you itemize and your gift qualifies, you can claim a charitable deduction. But did you know that you can enjoy an additional tax benefit if you donate long-term appreciated stock...
Scary Tax Situations and How to Handle Them
Most people think of jack-o-lanterns, graveyards, or frightful costumes when they think of scary Halloween things. In the tax world, sure, we think all of those are scary, but we also think some very scary tax and IRS situations are worth screaming about, too! So, in...
Could “bunching” medical expenses into 2018 save you tax?
Some of your medical expenses may be tax deductible, but only if you itemize deductions and have enough expenses to exceed the applicable floor for deductibility. With proper planning, you may be able to time controllable medical expenses to your tax advantage. The...
ITIN Expiring? Renew Now to Avoid Potential Delays
The IRS issues Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have (and are not eligible to obtain) a Social Security number. Certain ITINs expire at the end of each year,...
Consider all the tax consequences before making gifts to loved ones
Many people choose to pass assets to the next generation during life, whether to reduce the size of their taxable estate, to help out family members, or simply to see their loved ones enjoy the gifts. If you’re considering lifetime gifts, be aware that which assets...
Sciarabba Walker Makes IPA List of Top 400 Accounting Firms
Sciarabba Walker & Co., LLP is pleased to announce its ranking among the top 400 accounting firms in the United States by INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA). For nearly 30 years, IPA has compiled annual IPA 100, IPA 200, and IPA 300 lists; this is the first ever...
Tax-free fringe benefits help small businesses and their employees
In today’s job market, to attract and retain the best employees, small businesses need to offer not only competitive pay, but also appealing fringe benefits. Benefits that are tax-free are especially attractive to employees. Let’s take a quick look at some popular...