An emergency fund is key to long-term financial security. Over time, changes in expenses, income, family needs and financial priorities can affect how much emergency savings you need. Regularly reviewing your reserves can help ensure they’re sufficient to support your lifestyle and broader financial strategy.
When you’re not using your vacation home, renting it out can generate extra income. But it can also affect your taxes, depending on how often you rent and use the property personally.
Offering employees retirement options can be an effective way for small business owners to attract and retain talent. If you’re concerned about cost and administrative complexity, you’re not alone. Fortunately, several options are available, including a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plan.
If your business is like many today, you’re seeking more ways to attract and retain talent. One option is to offer tax-advantaged educational assistance under Internal Revenue Code Section 127. Recent legislative changes have expanded the value of this benefit.
When business owners think about risk, they often focus on market pressures or operational challenges. An IRS audit usually isn’t top of mind — but it can be costly, disruptive and time-consuming. Although some taxpayers are randomly selected for an audit, many audits occur because the IRS has identified certain patterns or inconsistencies. Understanding where these risks typically arise can help you limit your business’s exposure.
Investors often look to small, emerging companies for portfolio diversification and growth potential, but these investments can offer more. Certain shares may also provide valuable tax advantages under the qualified small business (QSB) stock rules. Tax legislation signed into law in 2025, commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), enhanced those benefits.
Getting a large inheritance can create new financial opportunities. But it’s important to handle inherited assets carefully, especially when it comes to taxes and planning. Understanding relevant tax rules can help you avoid surprises and make informed decisions.
Tax documents can accumulate quickly. While clearing out old files can feel productive, it’s important not to discard anything until you’ve reviewed some record-retention guidelines.
Selling investment or commercial real estate can result in a substantial tax bill if the property has appreciated significantly. One strategy to help ease your tax burden is an installment sale.
A recent survey found that 45% of small businesses reported growth, but 78% wanted to grow. This January 2026 data from Intuit QuickBooks Small Business Insights suggests that many small businesses are struggling to achieve their expansion goals. Small businesses usually don’t have extra cash, people or time to absorb mistakes. One wrong move can strain cash flow, overwhelm staff or stall momentum. The good news? Many growth missteps are predictable and preventable.
