12.20.13

How to Analyze a Deal: Looking Beyond the Numbers

As the real estate market has continued to improve, there has been a proliferation of real estate “deals” from syndicators and developers looking to provide benefits for themselves and to their investors. It is important to know what to look for when reviewing a new deal.

12.18.13

1099-K Reporting

It is almost tax filing season again and soon you will receive various third-party documents to assist you in preparing your taxes. One of the forms you will receive is a 1099-K from your credit card payment processing company. This blog will explain the best way to use this information.

12.16.13

Is Your Company’s Data Protected?
Tanya Gierut

Most people associate theft at a manufacturing company with loss of product or material. Although in the past this may has been true, a new type of theft has surfaced and it relates to intellectual property. Some of the greatest assets a company has are their vendor lists, trade secrets, customer database, and employee data. Without the proper security measures in place, a company is left with their doors wide open – the doors that lead to their network.

12.10.13

When Not-For-Profits and For-Profits Unite
Tamara Partridge

Joint ventures can provide many opportunities for not-for-profit organizations. First of all, linking up with a corporation can be a great branding tool. People put more trust into organizations that are associated with a “brand name,” and investors may be more willing to provide support. Corporations may have greater access to resources and can help the not-for-profit accomplish fundraising or program-related goals. Additionally, some alliances may even benefit from tax incentives.

11.26.13

The Role of the Audit Committee
Charles J. Burke

Public companies are required to have an audit committee (due to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002), and while not required, many not-for-profit organizations have also started their own committees as well. In order for an audit committee to be successful, both the organization and committee members must develop and fully understand the committee’s role and responsibilities.

11.25.13

Is a Reverse Exchange Right for Me?

Real estate investors interested in enjoying the tax benefits of a like-kind exchange may consider a “reverse exchange.” In a reverse exchange, the replacement property is acquired before the investor transfers the relinquished property. While the tax code does not allow an exchanger to exchange into a property already owned, a reverse exchange allows an exchanger to secure the replacement property prior to the sale of the original property. These transactions are more complex than a standard 1031 exchange and come with certain advantages and disadvantages.

11.19.13

New EPA Rules May Mean Higher Fuel Costs

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has moved to reduce sulfur levels in the air by increasing emissions and gasoline standards. But the American Petroleum Institute and other trade associations argue that the regulators are vastly underestimating how expensive the new rules will be for businesses and consumers, while doing little to help the environment. This short article notes the different cost estimates.

11.13.13

Handle With Care: Consider an Accountable Plan for Employee Expenses

There are distinct tax advantages to having a plan for employee expense reimbursements and allowances that is “accountable” in the eyes of the IRS. But it is still a decision every practice must make for itself. This blog describes the kinds of expenses that are reimbursable and how to document them.

11.12.13

The Pitfalls of Payroll for Tipped Employees
James Pellino

All industries have their own unique challenges and quirks. For a restaurant or bar, one unique aspect is payroll. Bars and restaurants need to deal with tips and gratuities, service charges and meals to employees every time they run payroll. This is a quick crash course on what you need to know before your run your next payroll.

11.10.13

Looking Backward to Help Your Business Move Forward

Do you think it’s important to look in the rearview mirror of your car before merging onto the expressway at 65 M.P.H. (or faster)? Isn’t it smart to know who’s approaching quickly from behind and isn’t planning on changing lanes to accommodate you? It’s probably also a good idea to know how much fuel you have left before realizing the next gas station is 50 miles away. I think the obvious answer to these questions is “Yes.” But if paying attention to your gauges and what’s behind you is important in driving, then why do so many entrepreneurs choose not to pay attention to the same things as they relate to their business?