If you're a 1099 contractor or you run your business through an S-corp with owner draws, September 15 is one of four dates a year the IRS expects a check, whether or not you've been tracking it. Missing it doesn't just delay a payment. It can trigger an underpayment penalty even if you pay everything you owe in full by April. Who actually needs to pay this If taxes aren't being withheld from your income the way they would be from a W-2 paycheck, you're generally on the hook f

Your rental property could significantly reduce what you owe the IRS this year. Most owners have no idea this is legal. Here's the part nobody explains well: Normal rental losses are "passive." They can only offset other passive income, not your W-2 paycheck or your 1099/business income. That's the rule most people run into and give up on. Short-term rentals can work differently. If the average length of stay works out to 7 days or less across the year, the activity isn't aut

If you've noticed more accounting firms suddenly backed by names you'd expect to see in a private equity press release rather than a CPA directory, you're not imagining it. Over the past several years, private equity has moved aggressively into public accounting, and the pace has only picked up. Firms that once operated as traditional CPA partnerships are increasingly structured with outside investors behind them. For business owners and individuals choosing who handles their

If you have a child or grandchild under 18, there's a new custodial investment account worth understanding, a Trump Account. It was created under the Working Families Tax Cuts, and the IRS and Treasury have spent the first half of 2026 rolling out guidance on how it actually works in practice. Here's what it is, who qualifies, and the actual steps to set one up and fund it. What is a Trump Account? A Trump Account is a custodial, tax-advantaged investment account opened on be

Halfway through 2026, most business owners have heard that a major new tax law passed last year. Fewer have had someone walk them through what it actually changes for their business, and even fewer have adjusted their planning to take advantage of it before year-end. The law, officially the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and rebranded by the IRS as the "Working Families Tax Cuts," rewrote several rules that directly affect how business owners plan for equipment purchases, R&D spe

If part of your income arrives without withholding built in, June 15 is not a date to ignore. The IRS says Form 1040-ES is used to figure and pay estimated tax on income such as self-employment earnings, interest, dividends, rents, and other taxable income that is not covered by withholding. For many business owners and independent professionals, that makes mid-June one of the most important money dates of the year. The Taxpayer Advocate Service says individuals, including so

Most people expect tax scams to arrive by text, email, or phone call. In 2026, that is still a major concern, but it is not the only one. The IRS continues to warn taxpayers about impersonation scams involving phishing emails, text messages, fake refund claims, QR codes, spoofed phone calls, AI-generated voice tactics, and fraudulent letters sent through the mail. Scammers are not relying on one method. They are using whichever channel feels most believable in the moment. One

We’re proud to announce that Brian Walker has been promoted to Partner at Abell & Advisors. Since joining the firm in 2024, Brian has demonstrated consistent growth and a strong commitment to both our clients and our team. His ability to build meaningful relationships and deliver thoughtful guidance has made him a key part of the firm’s continued success. This promotion is well earned, and a reflection of the impact he has made over the past two years. Brian’s progression wit

See 2026 mileage, payroll, and tax changes & how they affect your business.

SALT Deduction Basics The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction has been a hot topic since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 introduced a...

Bonus depreciation has long been a valuable tool for business owners looking to reduce taxable income by accelerating deductions for...

The sweeping tax package known as The One Big Beautiful Bill proposes major changes to income tax rates, deductions, and business...

The “One Big Beautiful Bill” is aiming to ease the burden for working Americans and retirees. Passed on July 4th, this legislation...

Moving to a new state might sound as simple as hiring movers, but for tax purposes, it’s far more complex. Failing to properly cut ties...

Why the IRS Withholding Estimator Is the Smartest Tool You Aren’t Using!

June marks the halfway point in the year! Here's why summer is the smartest time to check in on your business finances.

May 15 is a critical IRS deadline for tax-exempt organizations. Not sure what forms apply to you or how to avoid common filing mistakes? Here's what you need to know before time runs out.

The federal gift and estate tax is a tax on assets you pass on, either during your lifetime or after death. Right now, thanks to...

Turn Chores into Tax Breaks: Are you missing out on one of the most overlooked tax strategies?

The IRS has announced automatic tax extensions for individuals and businesses in parts of 12 states impacted by declared disasters. If...