One of the reasons I love the 4th of July is the open display of defiance to overregulation by the use of illegal fireworks. You can drive through some areas of town and see ample evidence of civil disobedience, despite threats of heavy fines by local governments. Pushing back against overregulation and taxation is [...]
It’s pretty unlikely that I’ll ever be asked to speak at a commencement ceremony. I don’t have great academic accomplishments or a particularly storied Resume. I don’t even have a fancy robe with colored sashes and tassels. I guess I’ll never rise to that level of wisdom. But frequently I am asked for advice [...]
Based upon all the TV ads for H&R Block and Turbo Tax, I guess it must mean we are in tax season again. That would explain the piles of files on my desk and the weekends my team is putting in here at the office! So far, a couple trends are starting to appear. [...]
On this national day of love, hearts, flowers, and candy that we use to acknowledge those who are close to us, I want to encourage everyone to think about the one thing that ties it all together and makes this day meaningful for many – Cybersecurity! (What else??) The reason I used this tortured [...]
Do you, or someone you know, have a life insurance policy that you are paying premiums on but the insured could really use some cash now? One little noticed nuance about the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) was a provision that changes the treatment of sales of life insurance contracts. Previously, [...]
For you over-achievers out there who are chomping at the bit to file 2018 tax returns, you may have to cool your jets for a while. While the Federal shutdown has not changed anticipated filing dates, there may still be some impact on you. IRS has furloughed 87% of their employees and many areas [...]
In case you missed it, last week the California Public Utilities Commission, a group of unelected State Regulators, proposed a plan to tax text messages. Apparently in the never ending pursuit of helping the disadvantaged afford cellular coverage our state ruling class saw a bountiful source of revenue. Just think of all the teenage [...]
In December 2017, the President signed into law the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Act” or “Act”), which introduces the most significant changes to the U.S. tax system since 1986. With a few exceptions, the provisions are generally effective starting in 2018. However, many of the changes are temporary and scheduled to sunset after [...]
Just a quick note to wish everyone a safe Halloween, and to be watchful when driving for the kids out looting and pillaging your neighborhood for treats! Also, while reading an email blast from the AICPA today, I was reminded that Identity Theft can be a real life horror story, and you must be [...]
As September 15 rolls into view its probably important to not only remind readers to make their quarterly estimated tax payments on time but also to evaluate whether they are sufficient. With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changing the tax landscape dramatically for some in 2018, you may want to refigure your payments. [...]
