Forensic Accounting Versus Business Valuation

If you rely solely on business valuation in litigation and business deals, you could be missing a critical piece of the puzzle. Forensic accounting can fill in the gaps and reveal a clearer picture. We love how ValuePointe.biz™ Principal and Manager Dwight A. Ensley explains it: “Sometimes clients believe that the business valuator is also […]

When You Can’t Pay Your Federal Taxes

More than half of U.S. taxpayers know that they pay an inaccurate amount of taxes each year. Most overpay and are happy to receive a refund. But since IRS withholding changed in 2019, nearly three in ten tax-filing Americans claim to have received an unusually large tax bill. Business owners and high-income taxpayers are surprised […]

Inflation and Your Small Business

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that one in three small business owners consider inflation their top concern right now. Inflation worries have driven small business optimism about the future to record lows, adds the National Federation of Independent Business. In response, 67% have raised prices, 41% have decreased staff, and 39% have taken out […]

IRS Whistleblowers Can Win 30% of What’s Due (But It’s Not Easy)

Money is a powerful motivator. That’s why the IRS Whistleblower Office is sometimes called into action, often when business partner disputes or divorce cases gain momentum. There could be a lot to be gained—15 to 30% of the taxes that are due could be rewarded to a whistleblower—but reality paints a different picture. At least […]

Win the Lottery…and Jail Time

A recent tax court case involving a Boston cop proves that once you purchase a winning lottery ticket, you’re on the hook to pay taxes on the winnings—even if you don’t keep the ticket. The police officer won $10,000 on a scratch-off ticket, which he then sold to a convenience store owner for $7,500 in […]

Cash Payments Can Trigger IRS Trouble

What do $600, $5,000, and $10,000 have in common? They’re specific payment amounts to a person or business that can trigger IRS reporting requirements. Ignore those triggers, and someone (either the payee or the recipient, depending on the trigger) could face steep penalties or even criminal charges. Click To View

Is It Time to Sell the Business?

Timing is everything. But what is the best “timing” when it comes to selling your business? It’s certainly an individual decision (no two business owners’ situations are alike). But to help identity what’s right for you and your business, look for these clues: Your business is doing well. It’s heartbreaking to witness business owners selling […]

From Risk to Managing Partner

Gina Valorz joined Steven Bankler’s CPA firm in 1996 and Bankler Advisory, the investment advisory service of Steven Bankler’s CPA firm, in 2001. Today, Valorz is the managing partner for Steven Bankler CPA Ltd. She was elected to the position in 2020… Click To View

Tipped Employees and the New 80/20 Rule

The U.S. Department of Labor’s newly revamped “80/20 guidance” for tipped workers is in effect after an emergency motion to withdraw it was denied. What is it and how does it affect Texas restaurants and other tip-based businesses? Restaurants in most states including Texas have been relying on the “tip credit” for decades, which allows […]

When You Can’t Pay Your Federal Taxes

It’s hard to get taxes right, but what if you’re surprised with a shockingly high federal tax bill you didn’t know you owed? The IRS offers some options, but if it’s a significant amount, turn to a CPA for help. More than half of U.S. taxpayers know that they pay an inaccurate amount of taxes […]