Tax Planning Before Major Money Moves

Before You Sell an Irvine Rental Property: What Will You Keep After Tax?

Before selling your Irvine rental, review tax basis, cash after debt, ownership, and exchange timing. Use this practical checklist from JH Group CPA.

Buying a Rental Property With a Partner? Decide These 5 Things Before Closing

REAL ESTATE TAX PLANNINGDirect answer: Before buying a rental property with a partner, agree o (...)

Five Tax Checks Before You Buy, Sell, Refinance, or Transfer Property

Before buying, selling, refinancing, or transferring property, review five connected issues: tax cost, cash flow, debt, ownership, and timing.

Trump Account Employer Contributions: A Section 128 Guide for Business Owners

Quick answer: For 2026, an employer may contribute up to $2,500 per employee through a qualify (...)

What Proactive Tax Planning Means for Real Estate Owners and Business Owners

Proactive tax planning helps real estate owners and business owners review income, entities, real es

A Surprise Refund Opportunity? Millions of Taxpayers May Be Owed COVID-Era Penalty Refunds

The pandemic disrupted… well, everything.Business operations. Filing deadlines. IRS processing (...)

The Penny Is Disappearing—Here’s What That Means for Your Pricing, Payments, and Profits

The U.S. penny is being phased out. Learn how rounding, pricing strategy, and payment trends could impact your business—and what to do now.

Final Countdown: Why December 31, 2026 is a Make-or-Break Date for Original QOF Investors

Deferred gains invested in Qualified Opportunity Funds generally become taxable by December 31, 2026. Learn what investors should do now to prepare.

Video Tips: College Costs and A Guide to Section 529 Plans

Section 529 plans are a powerful financial tool designed to encourage saving for future education costs in a tax-advantaged manner.

This NBA Insider Stole Millions — And It’s a Warning for Every Business

A former NBA executive was sentenced for embezzling millions. Here’s what the case reveals about internal controls and business risk.

How Real Estate Professional Status Can Benefit Property Owners

The Real Estate Professional designation is coveted among property owners due to its potential to significantly reduce how passive activity losses are taxed.

Clients Are Paying Slower—And It’s Not Just You

Struggling with slow-paying clients? Learn how to protect your cash flow, improve collections, and get paid faster with smarter payment terms and systems.

Tens of Millions Claimed New Tax Breaks — Did You Miss One?

Millions claimed new OBBBA tax breaks, but some may have missed out. Learn what changed and whether you should amend your 2025 return.

Video Tips: Qualified Opportunity Zone Investments After 2026

Learn how OBBBA changes opportunity zone investments after 2026, including new deferral rules and the return of the 10% basis step-up.

White House Announces Drug Pricing Deal and Retirement Access Expansion

New policies target drug prices and retirement access. Here’s what the latest White House announcements mean for Americans.

The 3 Numbers Every Business Owner Should Check Monthly (But Usually Don’t)

Most business owners track revenue but miss what matters. Learn 3 key metrics to monitor monthly to improve cash flow, profitability, and growth.

Where Is My Refund? What To Do When Your Refund Is Way Overdue (And Why a New IRS Notice Might Be The Reason)

Is your tax refund delayed? Learn common causes, including CP53E notices, and the steps to take to resolve issues and track your refund.

The Millionaire Tax Movement Is Growing — Here’s Where It Stands

States are debating millionaire taxes, wealth taxes, and luxury property surcharges. Here’s where major 2026 proposals stand nationwide.

Struggling to Pay Your Taxes? Here Are Solutions and Guidance

Can’t pay your tax bill? Explore IRS payment plans, offers in compromise, and other options to manage your tax debt effectively.

Video Tips: The Tax Implications of Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding can be a great way to raise money, but it may have tax consequences. Learn what could be taxable and what to watch for.

Wait Until 2027: How the OBBBA’s New Rules Can Slash Your Capital Gains Tax

Learn why delaying capital gain reinvestment until 2027 may offer better tax benefits under new Opportunity Zone rules and maximize long-term savings.

May 2026 Business Due Dates

Stay on track with May 2026 business tax deadlines, including Form 941 filing and employer monthly deposit due dates for Social Security and Medicare taxes.

They Got In. Now You Have to Decide: How to Pay for College Without Regret

College acceptance season is here. Learn how parents can compare net costs, use smart funding strategies, and make tax-efficient decisions.

May 2026 Individual Due Dates

May 2026 individual due date reminder: Employees with tip income over $20 in April must notify their employer by May 11 for proper tax withholding.

How to Clean Up Your QuickBooks in One Afternoon (Step-by-Step Guide)

A step-by-step guide to cleaning up QuickBooks, fixing errors, and improving your financial reports in just a few hours.

Beat the SALT Cap: How PTET Lets Pass-Through Owners Reclaim State Tax Deductions

Learn how the pass-through entity elective tax (PTET) may help bypass SALT limits and reduce federal taxable income for eligible business owners.

Video Tips: Changes to the Adoption Tax Credit

Learn about 2026 inflation-adjusted changes to the adoption tax credit, including updated limits for qualified adoption expenses.

When Companies Build on the Moon, How Do You Tax It? Accountants Are Already Talking About It

As space business grows, accountants are asking how to handle lunar assets. Here’s how GAAP could apply beyond Earth.

Gas Prices Soar After the Iran Shock. How Will the Deduction for Business Use of Your Vehicle Be Affected?

Rising gas prices in 2026 may impact business mileage deductions. Learn when the actual expense method may provide better tax savings.

AI Isn’t Replacing Your Business. But It Is Changing How You Scale It

AI can help small businesses reduce operating costs, improve efficiency, and increase profit margins. Learn how to apply it strategically.

Medically Related Home Improvements May Have Tax Benefits

Learn when medically necessary home improvements may qualify as tax deductions and how AGI limits and home value impact eligibility.

Video Tips: A Look into Tax Code Sec 61 - What Income Is Taxable?

Learn what counts as taxable income under Section 61. Understand the broad definition of gross income and what the IRS considers taxable.

A New Proposal Would Tax Some U.S. Athletes at 100% — Here’s Why

A new bill would tax 100% of income earned by some U.S. athletes competing for other countries. Here’s what it means.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Property Tax Breaks for Disabled Veterans (Including New York’s New Law)

Some disabled veterans qualify for full property tax exemptions. Here’s how the programs work and what New York’s new law changes.

The Tax Issues Those TV Ads Don't Tell You About Selling Your Life Insurance Policy

Selling a life insurance policy may create taxable income. Learn how life settlements are taxed and what to expect before selling your policy.

The IRS Is Paying Attention Again: Why More Taxpayers Are Getting Notices

IRS enforcement is increasing with more data-driven reviews and notices. Learn why and what steps to take if you receive a notice.

It's Hard to Believe: But Found Money Is Taxable

Even found money can be taxable under IRC Section 61. Learn what counts as income, key exclusions, and surprising tax rules on winnings.

Why the FIFA World Cup 2026 Could Mean Big Tax Headaches

From source taxation to treaty rules, the 2026 FIFA World Cup creates complex tax risks for global participants.

Video Tips: Safe Mailing Tips when Mailing Your Tax Return

If you submit your tax return via mail, the USPS has implemented a significant rule change that could put your "timely filing" status at risk.

When Borrowing Gets More Expensive: How Rising Interest Rates Are Impacting Small Businesses

Interest rates are rising again, increasing borrowing costs for small businesses. Learn how higher rates affect cash flow and what you can do.

Cracking the Kiddie Tax Code: Unlocking Tax Strategies for Your Child's Unearned Income

Learn how the kiddie tax works, who it applies to, and strategies to reduce tax on a child’s unearned income. Understand filing options and key thresholds.

From Oil Fields to Your Bottom Line: How Global Events Quietly Raise Your Business Costs

Energy price volatility is driving up costs for small businesses. Learn how fuel, shipping, and supplier pricing affect your bottom line.

Unlocking Financial Freedom: How ABLE Accounts Empower Individuals with Disabilities

Learn how ABLE accounts work, 2026 contribution limits, tax benefits, and how individuals with disabilities can save without losing government benefits.

Video Tips: April 15th Due Date Reminder

Reminder: April 15, 2026 tax deadline. File your return or extension, pay any tax due, and make estimated payments on time.

D.C. Tried to Change Its Tax Rules. Congress Said No.

Congress rejected D.C.’s corporate tax change. Here’s why it matters for companies operating in the District.

Sold Your Home Before Meeting the Gain Exclusion Requirements? You May Still Qualify for a Partial Exclusion

Sold your home before meeting the 2-year rule? Learn how partial gain exclusions work for job changes, health issues, or unforeseen events.

Eldercare Can Be a Substantial Medical Deduction

Learn how eldercare expenses like assisted living, home care, and caregiver services may qualify as medical deductions under current tax rules.

Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Fix Your QuickBooks (Before Small Problems Get Expensive)

Spring is the ideal time to clean up QuickBooks. Here’s how fixing small bookkeeping issues now can prevent costly problems later.

Video Tips: A Brief Look at the Tax Deduction for Medically-Related Home Improvements

Learn when medically necessary home improvements qualify as tax deductions and how the 7.5% AGI threshold impacts eligibility.

April 2026 Individual Due Dates

Stay on track with key April 2026 individual tax deadlines, including filing returns, estimated payments, IRA contributions, and more.

April 2026 Business Due Dates

Key April 2026 business tax deadlines including C-corp filings, payroll deposits, Form 941, and estimated tax payments. Stay compliant.

AI + Accounting Software: What Happens When You Get Advice Based on Bad Books?

AI is transforming tools like QuickBooks, but messy books lead to bad insights. Learn why clean financial data is more important than ever.

Tax Filing Deadlines Are Rapidly Approaching

April 15, 2026 is near. File your return, pay taxes, make IRA contributions, and submit FBAR or extensions to avoid penalties.

Behind on Payroll Taxes? This Is the Most Dangerous Tax Debt Your Business Can Have

Behind on payroll taxes? Learn about trust fund taxes, IRS penalties, personal liability, and why acting early can protect your business.

Can’t Pay Your Taxes? Explore These Alternatives to Manage Your Tax Liability

Can’t pay your taxes? Learn IRS payment plans, installment agreements, and other options to manage tax debt while avoiding penalties and interest.

Your Q1 Financial Checkup: 5 Numbers Every Business Owner Should Review Before April

Before April 15, review five key Q1 financial numbers—from profit margins to cash flow and estimated taxes—to stay on track for the rest of the year.

Video Tips: Tax Implications for Cash Back on Business Credit Card Purchases

Learn the tax implications of cash back on business credit card purchases and how to properly report rewards while keeping your business records accurate.

After 100 Years in Chicago, the Bears May Jump States — and Trigger a Tax Showdown

A possible Chicago Bears move to Indiana raises questions about stadium subsidies, property taxes, and public funding obligations.

Avoid the Postal Service Drop Boxes, Your Tax Return Might Not Get Postmarked by April 15th

New USPS postmark rules may delay the mailing date on tax returns. Learn how the mailbox rule works and how to ensure proof of timely filing.

Phishing & AI-Powered Email Scams: How to Protect Yourself and Your Business

Phishing scams spike during tax season. Learn how AI emails, IRS impersonation, and payroll fraud work—and how to protect your business and data.

Unlocking the Tax Maze: What Every Immigrant Needs to Know About Tax Filing in the U.S.

Learn how immigration status affects U.S. taxes, including the Green Card Test, Substantial Presence Test, and rules for resident and nonresident aliens.

Video Tips: Changes Coming to Charitable Contributions in 2026

Starting in 2026, new rules change how charitable donations are deducted. Learn about the 0.5% AGI floor for itemizers and new deductions for non-itemizers.

Can California Tax You After You Leave? The Billionaire Wealth Tax Fight Just Went Federal

A federal bill aims to block California’s proposed 5% billionaire wealth tax from applying to former residents. Here’s what taxpayers should know.

How to Protect Your Business From Employee Bookkeeping Fraud

Employee bookkeeping fraud can devastate a small business. Learn common fraud schemes, warning signs, and practical internal controls to protect your company.

Haven’t Filed Your 2022 Return Yet? Kiss any Refund Goodbye if Not Filed by This April 15th

Haven’t filed your 2022 tax return? The deadline to claim any refund is April 15, 2026. After that date, unclaimed refunds become property of the U.S. Treasury.

Trump Accounts 2026: A Powerful Financial Head Start for Your Child

Trump Accounts allow up to $5,000 in annual contributions plus a $1,000 government seed for eligible children. Learn the tax rules and how they compare to 529s.

Checking Your Federal Refund Status Is Easy

Waiting on your federal refund? Learn how to use the IRS Where’s My Refund tool and IRS2Go app to track your refund status quickly and securely.

Video Tips: Received a 1099-K? What You Should Be Concerned About

Received a 1099-K from PayPal, Stripe, or another platform? Learn what it means, what to check for accuracy, and how it may affect your tax return.

Unlocking Bigger Refunds: How the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is Boosting 2026 Tax Refunds

Learn why 2026 tax refunds are higher and how new deductions, credits, and OBBBA tax changes may impact your refund and overall tax filing.

Super Bowl Taxes: Why Sam Darnold’s Tax Bill Shocked Even Football Fans

Super Bowl earnings highlight how multi-state income, jock tax rules, and gambling winnings can create unexpected tax liabilities for athletes and taxpayers.

When School Taxes Are $0: How Some Americans Pay Nothing — and What That Means for You

Charitable Giving in 2026: Navigating New Tax Laws and Maximizing Your Gift’s Impact

Learn how 2026 tax law changes affect charitable giving, including new rules for non-itemizers, AGI limits, deduction phaseouts, and documentation requirements.

Video Tips: Avoid Becoming a Victim of Ghost Preparers

Learn how to spot warning signs of ghost tax preparers and protect yourself from tax fraud this season.

Supreme Court Rules Against Emergency Tariffs and Administration Responds

The Supreme Court ruled emergency tariffs unlawful, and the administration plans alternatives. Here’s what small and mid-sized businesses should know now.

March 2026 Business Due Dates

March 2026 business tax deadlines include Forms 1065, 1120-S, 1099 filings, payroll deposits, and electronic reporting due dates. Stay compliant this month.

Landmark US Court Ruling May Let Taxpayers Reclaim Penalties and Interest

A recent court ruling may allow taxpayers to reclaim certain IRS penalties and interest from the COVID-19 period. Learn key actions and filing deadlines.

What QuickBooks Can (and Can’t) Tell You About Your Business Finances

QuickBooks is powerful, but it isn’t a tax advisor. Learn what the software does well and where businesses still need expert guidance.

March 2026 Individual Due Dates

Stay on track this tax season with key March 2026 individual due dates.

Comprehensive Guide to 2025 Tax Changes: What Taxpayers Need to Know

As tax season cranks up, it is important to be aware of the many tax changes affecting 2025 so you can be better prepared for your tax appointment.

When One Client Fuels 15%+ of Your Revenue, Buyers See Risk — Not Success

If one client generates over 15% of revenue, buyers see risk. Learn how client concentration impacts valuation and what to address before selling.

Unlock Tax Savings with the New Auto Loan Interest Deduction, A Must-Read for Savvy Taxpayers!

Learn the new auto loan interest deduction rules, including eligibility, limits, qualified vehicles, and how to claim this temporary tax benefit through 2028.

When “No Big Deal” Turns Into a Big Deal: Lessons From the IRS’s Top 10 Cases of 2025

The IRS Top 10 Tax Crime Cases of 2025 show how small tax issues can escalate into serious problems and what taxpayers can do to stay compliant.

Video Tips: In 2026, Don't Sleep on the Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction

Learn about the new vehicle loan interest deduction under OBBBA, including eligibility, phaseouts, and how taxpayers may deduct up to $10,000 annually.

Pricing Isn’t About What You Charge — It’s About What Your Business Can Sustain

Thin margins and unstable cash flow often point to pricing. Here’s why pricing should be a strategic CFO conversation, not a guess.

Navigating Wash Sale Woes: Common Pitfalls, Tax Implications, and Strategic Avoidance

Selling at a loss and buying back too soon can trigger wash sale rules. Learn common pitfalls, crypto treatment, and strategies to avoid costly mistakes.

Why Profitable Businesses Still Run Out of Cash (And What CFOs Watch Instead)

Some profitable businesses still struggle with cash. Learn why cash flow differs from profit and why CFOs focus on both.

It’s Tax Time - Beware of Scams

Tax season is prime time for scams. Learn how to spot phishing and smishing, protect seniors, and avoid identity theft during tax filing season.

Video Tips: Prepping For Trump Accounts – What You Need to Know

Learn how Trump Accounts under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act create new tax-advantaged savings options for children under 18.

What Americans Should Know About Olympic Medals, Prize Money, and Taxes

Are Olympic medals taxed? Learn how U.S. tax law treats Olympic prize money, medals, endorsements, and state taxes ahead of the 2026 Winter Games.

Using a Ghost Preparer? Who Are You Going to Call When the IRS Comes Knocking?

Learn how to spot ghost tax preparers, avoid refund scams, understand PTIN rules, and protect yourself from penalties when filing your 2025 return.

The Most Dangerous Number in Your Financials (And It’s Not What You Think)

Many owners track revenue but overlook the number that drives sustainability. Gross margin matters more than you think—and it’s a CFO-level conversation.

Thinking About Moving for Taxes? This Is a Conversation You Need to Have First

Thinking about moving for tax reasons? Here is a tax conversation every family should have before deciding.

Received a 1099-K? What You Should Be Concerned About

Learn why Form 1099-K exists, what it reports, and how it affects income reporting for personal sales, side hustles, and businesses.

Does Closing an Account Eliminate FATCA (Form 8938) Reporting?

Closing an account does not always eliminate Form 8938 reporting. Learn when closed accounts may still require FATCA disclosure.

Video Tips: The 2026 Standard Business Mileage Rate Is Here

The Standard Business Mileage rate for 2026 has recently been released. Watch this video to learn more.

Does Closing a Foreign Bank Account Eliminate FBAR Filing?

Closing a foreign bank account does not always eliminate FBAR filing. Learn when closed accounts still require reporting.

Does Selling a Home Always Trigger Capital Gains Tax?

Selling a home does not always result in capital gains tax. Learn when the IRS home sale exclusion applies and when gains may be taxable.

Why Seeing the Same Concert in Las Vegas Can Cost Hundreds More Than Anywhere Else

From higher fees to tourist demand, Vegas concerts often cost hundreds more than the same shows in other cities. Here’s why.

Does an LLC Automatically Reduce Taxes?

An LLC does not automatically lower taxes. Learn how entity classification and tax elections determine whether an LLC creates tax savings.

Exploring College Athletes' Evolving Income Streams: NIL Earnings and Revenue Sharing from Athletic Events

Learn about tax rules for student-athletes, including NIL income, scholarships, deductions, and tax credits to stay compliant and maximize benefits.

Are Rental Losses Always Deductible?

Rental losses are often limited under IRS passive activity rules. Learn when losses are deductible and when they must be carried forward.

Drug & Alcohol Addiction: Navigating the Tax and Financial Aspects

Understand the tax and financial impacts of drug and alcohol addiction, including medical deductions, employment issues, benefits, and charitable contributions.

Does a 1099 Automatically Mean Self-Employment Tax?

A 1099 does not automatically trigger self-employment tax. Learn how the IRS determines whether 1099 income is subject to SE tax.

Video Tips: Tax Time is Around the Corner! Are You Ready?

Learn how preparing your tax records ahead of time can save money, uncover deductions, and give you more time to plan for the future.

Does Paying All Your Tax Eliminate Filing Requirements?

Paying your tax does not remove the requirement to file a return. Learn why filing is still required and how failure-to-file penalties apply.

Unraveling the 2025 Tax Overhaul: How New Laws Could Impact You

Major tax law changes take effect in 2025. Learn how new deductions, credits, expensing rules, and retirement updates may impact individuals and businesses.

Trump Accounts – Don’t Miss Out on This Opportunity for Your Children

Learn how Trump Accounts work, who qualifies, contribution limits, the $1,000 government seed, tax treatment, and distribution rules.

February 2026 Business Due Dates

February 2026 business due dates include W-2s, 1099s, payroll forms, and federal tax deposits. Review key deadlines to avoid penalties.

This Is the Best Time to Fix Your QuickBooks File — Here’s Why

Early in the year is the easiest time to clean up QuickBooks, fix errors, get organized before tax season is in full swing.

Does an Extension Stop IRS Penalties? (CPA Perspective)

A tax extension does not stop IRS penalties or interest on unpaid tax. Learn how late payment penalties work and how to reduce them.

Student Loan Collections Are Back. What Borrowers With Heavy Student Debt Need to Know Now.

Student loan enforcement is restarting. Should bankruptcy be considered? Learn the pros, cons, credit impact, and tax implications before deciding.

Does Filing a Tax Extension Increase Audit Risk? (CPA Perspective)

Learn how the IRS actually selects audits and why accuracy matters more than filing early.

Dodge the Tax Torpedoes: Navigate Your Income with Strategic Planning

Learn how MAGI triggers tax torpedoes like Social Security taxation, Medicare IRMAA, SALT limits, NIIT and AMT, plus strategies to reduce unexpected tax issues.

Why File a Tax Return When Not Required? Unlocking Potential Benefits

Learn the 2025 income thresholds for filing a tax return and when it pays to file anyway due to refundable credits and carryover deductions.

February 2026 Individual Due Dates

February 2026 individual tax reminders are here. This article covers estimated tax options, tip reporting rules, W-4 exemption deadlines, and key compliance not

Video Tips: Why File a Tax Return When One Is Not Required?

Watch this video to see why it can be beneficial to file your taxes even if you are not required to do so.

The Silent Cash Flow Killers Hitting Small Businesses Right Now

Inflation hangover, payroll creep, tariffs, subscriptions, and tax surprises are draining SMB cash flow. Learn what to watch and how to respond.

Poland Just Passed a Zero-Income Tax Law for Parents: What Americans Should Know

Poland has passed a zero personal income tax law for parents with two or more children earning up to 140,000 zloty, boosting family income and economic support.

Why Your Tax Refund Isn’t a Win (And What to Do Instead)

A big tax refund feels good, but it often signals missed planning. Learn how withholding reviews, estimates, and life changes affect your taxes.

Understanding Income Tax: A Guide to Partnering Effectively with Your Tax Professional

A simple guide to income tax basics, covering brackets, AGI, MAGI, deductions, credits, taxable income, and how to work effectively with your tax professional.

Received an IRS Letter? Here’s What Not to Do

An IRS or state tax notice is stressful—but panic makes it worse. Learn what not to do if you receive a tax notice and how to respond calmly.

The One Big Beautiful Bill’s Hidden Truths

Explore what the One Big Beautiful Bill Act really changes, including Social Security taxation, senior deductions, overtime rules and tip income limits,

Why Profitable Businesses Still Feel Broke

Your business is profitable, but cash feels tight. Discover how tax timing, debt, owner compensation, and entity structure can quietly drain cash flow.

Video Tax Alert: Prepare for the New 1099-DA Crypto Reporting

Don’t forget to check for Form 1099-DA sent to your mailbox if you have digital asset transactions last year. Watch this video for details.

Gen X Is Stuck in the Middle—and the Tax System Knows It

Kids, aging parents, peak income, and no time. Why Gen X feels squeezed—and why tax planning matters more than ever.

Tax Season Is Coming, Here’s What to Know

Tax season is approaching. Learn about key deductions, new OBBBA changes, and tips for organizing documents so your tax appointment goes smoothly.

Someone Is Suing the IRS to Claim Their Dog as a Dependent (and the Case Is Real)

A real lawsuit claims a dog should qualify as a tax dependent. Here’s what the case says, and what the IRS actually allows when it comes to pets and taxes.

Navigating 2025's Game-Changing Tax Reforms for Individuals and Businesses

Key 2025 tax changes under the OBBBA, including new deductions, credits, retirement updates, and business incentives for individuals and businesses.

Video Tips: Change to Educator’s Deduction Under OBBBA

Learn how the OBBBA impacts the educator deduction starting in 2026, including the restored itemized deduction and the $350 above-the-line benefit.

2026 Standard Mileage Rates Announced

The IRS has released the 2026 standard mileage rates for business, medical, charitable, and moving use. Learn what changed and how it affects deductions.