Shakespeare wrote… “Neither a borrower nor a lender be.” That may be good advice in theory, but in practice you may want to make a loan to an employee who’s going through tough times. Lending money to an employee can be a thoughtful act that builds loyalty, but it can also put you in a tough spot if the debt goes unpaid. If you want to learn how to protect yourself … [Read more...]
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The most dangerous place to borrow money
If you ever run short of money there are two places you should never, ever go for a loan. Your friendly neighborhood loan shark. Miss a usurious payment and you could get your legs broken. Ouch! The payroll-tax money you’ve withheld from your employees. Borrow just a little and Uncle Sam will break your legs. Maybe not literally, but you will suffer tremendous … [Read more...]
The truth about “defined-contribution health plans”
After the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) became law, a bunch of ads have popped up on the web touting “defined-contribution health plans.” They’re billed as perfect for business owners who have fewer than fifty employees. The trouble is, the tax code makes no mention of defined-contribution health plans! FACT: These plans are purely the creation of marketers and can get you … [Read more...]
Protect yourself from the Alternative Minimum Tax!
It’s outrageous! Did you know that the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) rules force you to pay taxes on your tax deductions! That’s right. The AMT even makes you pay taxes on the personal exemptions the regular tax law grants you for your children! Luckily, because you own a business, there is something you can do to protect yourself. You can use your business expenses to … [Read more...]
How to deduct business meals with your spouse
Not so fast! Don’t automatically assume that the IRS won’t let you deduct the cost of a business meal with your spouse. If you know how to handle things the right way, you can enjoy a leisurely dinner with your wife or husband and let Uncle Sam pick up the tab! How can you overcome the IRS’s “no deduction for personal, family, or living expenses rule”? You’ll find out when … [Read more...]