AHP Articles

Created: Tuesday, March 5, 2024

A job loss is bad but the tax implications could make it worse

Unemployment has been holding steady recently at 3.7%. But there are still some people losing their jobs — particularly in certain industries including technology and media. If you’re laid off or terminated from employment, taxes are likely the last thing on your mind. However, there are tax implications due to your altered employment circumstances.
Created: Wednesday, February 28, 2024

2024 Spring Community Banking Advisor Newsletter

Be sure to check out the Spring 2024 edition of Community Banking Advisor. The newsletter is a wealth of information, articles include: • Federal court: financial institution liable for AHC fraud losses • FAQs about selling mortgages on the secondary market, know your risks • Staying atop the new-and-improved CRA rules • Bank wire
Created: Tuesday, February 27, 2024

New option for unused funds in a 529 college savings plan

With the high cost of college, many parents begin saving with 529 plans when their children are babies. Contributions to these plans aren’t tax deductible, but they grow tax deferred. Earnings used to pay qualified education expenses can be withdrawn tax-free. However, earnings used for other purposes may be subject to income tax plus a 10% penalty.
Created: Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Small businesses can help employees save for retirement, too

Many small business owners run their companies as leanly as possible. This often means not offering what are considered standard fringe benefits for midsize or larger companies, such as a retirement plan.
Created: Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Taking your spouse on a business trip? Can you write off the costs?

A recent report shows that post-pandemic global business travel is going strong. The market reached $665.3 billion in 2022 and is estimated to hit $928.4 billion by 2030, according to a report from Research and Markets. If you own your own company and travel for business, you may wonder whether you can deduct the costs of having your spouse accompany you on trips.
Created: Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Is it time to upgrade your business’s accounting software?

By now, just about every company uses some kind of accounting software to track, manage and report its financial transactions. Many businesses end up using several different types of software to handle different accounting-related functions. Others either immediately or eventually opt for a comprehensive solution that addresses all their needs.
Created: Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Get ready for the 2023 gift tax return deadline

Did you make large gifts to your children, grandchildren or others last year? If so, it’s important to determine if you’re required to file a 2023 gift tax return. In some cases, it might be beneficial to file one — even if it’s not required.
Created: Wednesday, February 7, 2024

How businesses can reinvigorate strategic planning

For businesses, and people for that matter, the beginning of the calendar year can be a bit of a grind. The holidays have passed, summer vacations are relatively far off and everyone is trying to build momentum for a strong, healthy year.
Created: Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Filing jointly or separately as a married couple: What’s the difference?

When you file your tax return, a tax filing status must be chosen. This status is used to determine your standard deduction, tax rates, eligibility for certain tax breaks and your correct tax.
Created: Wednesday, January 31, 2024

3 common forms of insurance fraud (and how businesses can fight back)

Businesses of all shapes and sizes are well-advised to buy various forms of insurance to manage operational risks. But insurance itself is far from risk-free. You might overpay for a policy that you don’t really need. Or you could invest in cheap coverage that does you little to no good when you need it.