Yes, you still need an estate plan even if you’re single, without children
There’s a common misconception that only married couples with children need estate plans. In fact, estate planning may be even more important for single people without children. Why? Because for married couples, the law makes certain assumptions about who should make financial or medical decisions on their behalf should they become incapacitated and who should inherit their property if they die. Contact the estate planning advisors at SEK with your questions.
If you run a business from home, you could qualify for home office deductions
If you’re self-employed and run your business from home or perform certain functions there, you might be able to claim deductions for home office expenses against your business income. There are two methods for claiming this tax break: the actual expense method and the simplified method.
Put your nonprofit’s cybersecurity system to the “pen” test
How well does your nonprofit’s cybersecurity program protect you from hacking? Penetration (pen) testing helps find vulnerabilities so you can, if necessary, strengthen your defenses. Contact our nonprofit advisors for assistance with your nonprofit.
Do you have the right amount of life insurance coverage?
Life insurance plays a vital role in your estate plan because its proceeds can provide for your family in the event of your untimely death. The amount of life insurance that’s right for you depends on you and your family's circumstances, so it’s critical to review your life insurance policy regularly. Contact our estate planning advisors for life insurance planning assistance.
If you didn’t contribute to an IRA last year, there’s still time
If you’re gathering documents to file your 2024 tax return and you’re concerned that your tax bill may be higher than you’d like, there might still be an opportunity to lower it. If you qualify, you can make a deductible contribution to a traditional IRA right up to the April 15, filing date and benefit from the tax savings on your 2024 return. Contact the CPAs and tax advisors at SEK to get the most out of your tax return and for more tax tips.
Do you have an excess business loss?
If an individual taxpayer has substantial business losses, unfavorable federal income tax rules may come into play and things can get complicated. Contact the CPAs and business tax advisors at SEK with any questions.
Beyond Boomers: How to engage younger generations with your nonprofit
Make sure your nonprofit marketing efforts are reaching Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z. Try to target them on the social media platforms they frequent. Gen Xers and Millennials like to make recurring donations and give via work while Gen Z members are more likely to use phone apps and social impact purchasing. Contact our nonprofit advisors for donation assistance.
A revocable trust can be a versatile tool in your estate plan
A revocable trust is a popular estate planning tool that allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and ensure a smooth transfer of those assets to your family after your death. However, like any legal instrument, a revocable trust has certain disadvantages. Contact the estate planning advisors at SEK with questions.
Child tax credit: The rules keep changing but it’s still valuable
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) has long been a valuable tax break for families with qualifying children. Whether you’re new to claiming the credit or you’ve benefited from it for years, it’s crucial to stay current on its rules and potential changes. As we approach the expiration of certain provisions within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) at the end of 2025, here’s what you need to know about the CTC for 2024, 2025 and beyond. Contact SEK's tax advisors with questions.
Questions about taxes and tips? Here are some answers for employers
Businesses in certain industries employ service workers who receive tips as a large part of their compensation. These businesses include restaurants, hotels and salons. Compliance with federal and state tax regulations is vital if your business has employees who receive tips. Contact SEK's business tax advisors with your tax questions.