A while back I wrote about using the envelope method to help manage expenses and cash flow. Because I believe in simplicity, there may be a simpler way to use this powerful method. First, a background on the envelope method: I started using this method when I was a teenager through the guidance of my […]
Expenses
Never Pay Taxes on Your Real Estate Investment
Real estate can be a great investment, especially with all of the tax benefits. You can generally deduct interest, property taxes, repairs, and depreciation. Sometimes, a rental property may even generate a tax loss, while being cash-flow positive. But what happens when you sell your property? If you sell your property as a loss, then […]
Frivolous Tax Arguments
I don’t know anyone who likes to pay taxes. But, you won’t win with these arguments: Filing tax returns are voluntary: Filing tax returns are not voluntary. The IRS uses the word voluntary to mean that you determine your own initial tax liability by filing your own tax returns, and not have the government determine […]
Where is all of the Money Going?
You’re a small business owner, keeping busy, but there always seems to not be enough cash. An entire book can be written on this subject, but here are a few reasons why you may feel your business is short on cash: Taking too Much: Unless you have other income sources, you need to either take […]
Smart Ways to Cut Your Expenses
A previous article was titled, “Don’t Cut Your Expenses,” and this time I am going to give examples of cutting expenses in a smart way. Personal Expenses: With mortgage rates at record lows, now may be a good time to refinance your existing mortgage. You need to compare the savings with any upfront costs. If […]
Correct Your Mistakes Before It’s Too Late!
The end of the year is approaching, and now is the time for some last minute tax planning before it is too late. Almost every time a financial transaction is made it has an impact on your taxes. Here are some things to look out for and consider: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you […]
Choosing a Service Provider the Right Way
When purchasing a product, it is usually much easier to compare it to similar products, or even to comparison shop between stores. But what about comparing services? Depending upon the type of service you are looking for, there are several factors to consider: Referrals & Reviews: Was the provider referred to you from someone you […]
Be Careful Who You Loan Money To
A friend is in a pickle and asks you for a loan of $5,000 because they hit some hard times and have some bills to pay. Do you help out your friend and say yes, or simply say no. If you say no, then your friend may get upset, get behind with bills, but hopefully they […]
Don’t Cut Your Expenses!
Shouldn’t a CPA be telling you to spend less and save more? Perhaps, but what if you are cutting back on your expenses too much and you are focusing way too much on not spending money? First, just to clarify, I do not advocate spending money foolishly or spending beyond your means. I am referring […]
Strange Tax Benefits
The tax laws are written with a purpose in mind, but at times, it may be used (loopholes) to receive unintended benefits. You may be able to rent out your home or vacation home tax-free if rented for less than two weeks during the year If you have a home office, you may be able […]