DENISE STUBBS, CPA

'Tis the season for holiday parties, and if you're a small business owner, you're probably wondering: "Is this party tax-deductible?" The good news is that holiday parties can indeed be 100% deductible business expenses, but only if you follow the rules.

The holiday season presents a fascinating paradox for small business owners. For many, it's the most profitable time of year. The season that can make or break annual revenue targets. Yet it's also when cash flow becomes most unpredictable, expenses spike unexpectedly, and financial planning gets thrown out the window.

Timing your business purchases can save you thousands.

Because the line between business and personal isn't always as clear as you think One of the most common questions we get from business owners is some variation of "Can I deduct this?" followed by a description of an expense that falls somewhere in the gray area between personal and business. The answer is usually "It depends," which isn't very helpful when you're trying to figure out your taxes. The truth is, the IRS has rules about what makes an expense deductible, but thos

Let's talk about something most business owners don't want to think about: bookkeeping. It's not exactly the fun part of running a business. But here's what's scary: bad bookkeeping doesn't just mean messy records. It means you're probably losing money in ways you don't even realize.

Economic headlines can be scary. Inflation concerns, interest rate changes, and market volatility. It's enough to keep any business owner awake at night, wondering if they're prepared for whatever comes next. But here's what we've learned from helping businesses navigate the ups and downs of recent years: the companies that thrive during uncertain times aren't necessarily the biggest or the luckiest. They're the ones that plan ahead and build financial resilience into their o

If you've never participated in a formal tax planning session, you might be wondering what actually happens during the appointment. Many people assume it's just like their annual tax preparation meeting, but tax planning is fundamentally different and far more valuable when done before year-end.

Every year, small business owners overpay on their taxes. Not because they owe more than they think, but because they're missing deductions hiding in plain sight. These aren't sneaky loopholes or aggressive tax strategies. They're legitimate business expenses that you're probably already paying for, but not deducting.

DIY Tax Software commercials make it look so easy. Click a few buttons, answer some questions, and boom, your taxes are done for less than the cost of dinner for two. But here's what those ads don't tell you: sometimes that "affordable" DIY software ends up being the most expensive tax mistake you'll ever make.

Filing 1099s isn't optional—it's an IRS requirement. Miss the deadline or file incorrectly, and you could face penalties starting at $60 per form. But here's what most business owners don't realize: you can't file a 1099 without first collecting a W-9 from your contractors. Without it, you're exposed to IRS penalties, potential tax liability, and year-end chaos that could have been easily avoided. The deadline is January 31, 2026, and the clock is already ticking.

Fall Tax Deadlines You Don't Want to Miss

Five Tax Moves to Make Before the End of the Year

CPA or Bookkeeper? (And Why You Might Need Both)

What to Do If You Receive a Letter from the IRS

If you’ve recently received a notice from the IRS, the situation can feel daunting. The prospect of managing tax debt might seem overwhelming, and you may be unsure about what steps to take next.   Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this complex area alone. Tax resolution firms are here to help, providing essential guidance and support tailored to your unique circumstances.   Personalized Support from Tax Resolution Experts   1.    Understanding Your Unique Situation Eve

In response to recent IRS warnings about dubious "Offer in Compromise (OIC) mills," it’s crucial to understand that not all tax resolution services are created equal. While there are unethical companies that exploit vulnerable taxpayers with promises of "pennies-on-the-dollar" settlements, there are also many reputable local tax resolution firms that deliver legitimate services. These firms offer personalized, professional assistance, providing a reliable alternative to deali

If you’ve ever tried reaching the IRS by phone, you’re familiar with the seemingly endless wait times and multiple transfers that often lead to frustration. Now, imagine trying to negotiate your tax debt under these conditions—without a clear understanding of your options.   The process can feel like an uphill battle, making it even more challenging to resolve your tax issues. That’s why it’s so important to be informed about all of the different ways in which you can negotia

Preparing, filing, or even thinking about taxes can be overwhelming for many individuals, especially when faced with financial difficulties that prevent them from being able to pay their taxes in full.   However, it is vital to stay aware of the financial consequences that are associated with not paying your taxes on time and in full, because the penalties and interest can add up quickly and become a significant financial burden.   Knowing the types of penalties and interest