How Do I Find the Accountant That’s Right For Me?
Don’t be fooled—April may seem like a long way off, but those sneaky taxes will creep up on you before you know it. Don’t wait until the very last minute to look for a tax preparer—begin looking now. Where do you start? Here’s a beginner’s guideline on what to look for when on the hunt […]
It’s Time to Prep for Tax Returns!
At the moment, you’re probably waiting for your 1098, 1099 and W-2 forms to come in the mail before you can start your tax preparations. But now’s the time to get ready for your 2011 tax return! The first place to look to get your info ready to take to your tax preparer or accountant […]
What IS Use Tax, and Why Do I Have to Pay It?
Amazon has been in the news a lot lately because of their affiliate programs and not charging their California customers state sales tax on their purchases. The definition of use tax from the Franchise Tax Board website is as follows: Use tax is a separate tax that is generally due on the purchase of tangible […]
December Tips for Savings Accounts and Estate Planning
Are you looking to take advantage of any tax breaks available by the end of the year? It’s a good idea if you are positioned correctly. If you are a W2 employee, there is not much time left for you to augment your 401(k) savings. IRAs allow you to contribute until April 15, but 401(k)s […]
Anaheim Hills Accountant Answers: What IS a Business Expense?
Here’s another one of those questions I get asked a lot: Why isn’t that a business expense? Primarily because there’s a difference between what the IRS defines as a business expense and what we’d like to write off as a business expense. Let’s start with an example. Say you’re working late on a project, and […]
How Do I Keep My Receipts Straight for End-of-Year?
Create a system for next year! Start a record-keeping program so you can keep on top of it next year. The hardest part is starting! Stephen Covey reminds us that forming habits is not always a bad thing—learn to start and keep GOOD habits, like keeping your receipts that you need. It doesn’t have to […]