#547 Year-End Tax Strategies The IRS Haven’t Heard Of w/ Carter Cofield
Nov 22, 2024
auto_awesome
This discussion dives into unique year-end tax strategies, spotlighting the intriguing 'December loophole' for vehicle depreciation. Discover the benefits of renting out your home for tax deductions and how holiday family board meetings can help maximize expense write-offs. Learn about leveraging Health Savings Accounts effectively and the perks of Roth conversions. The importance of proactive payroll planning and charitable contributions is also emphasized, making it a treasure trove of actionable financial advice.
42:40
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Utilizing the 'December loophole' allows business owners to rent their primary residence for tax-free income up to $14,000 annually.
Converting an LLC to an S-Corp can significantly lower self-employment taxes, particularly beneficial for those with unexpected profits.
Deep dives
Maximizing Tax Benefits Through the Augusta Rule
The IRS allows business owners to rent their primary residence to their business for up to 14 days a year, providing a strategic opportunity for significant tax deductions. By leveraging the Augusta Rule, homeowners can potentially deduct up to $14,000 in rental income without having to report it as personal income. This is especially advantageous during the holiday season when rental rates tend to increase due to events and gatherings, allowing businesses to claim fair market value for the space used. Combining this strategy with board meetings held at home maximizes deductions while promoting business growth.
Year-End Tax Strategies for Business Owners
Approaching the year's end presents business owners with various strategies to minimize tax liabilities, including evaluating entity structures and implementing S elections retroactively. By converting an LLC to an S-Corp, business owners can save significantly on self-employment taxes, while also adjusting payroll to reflect accurate income levels. These adjustments can be particularly beneficial for those seeing unexpected profit increases, allowing for substantial tax reduction before the year closes. Additionally, acquiring necessary equipment or supplies in December can yield immediate tax savings, enhancing cash flow into the following year.
Utilizing Tax Savings Accounts for Strategic Investments
Business owners often overlook the potential of tax savings accounts, which can not only hold funds for tax payments but also serve as a source for strategic investments. By utilizing funds saved for taxes, owners can invest in opportunities like property purchases aimed at generating passive income and maximizing tax deductions through accelerated depreciation. This approach allows business owners to leverage their tax savings effectively, converting potential liabilities into growth opportunities. Such strategic financial planning can significantly impact overall wealth-building efforts.
Retirement Planning with Solo 401(k)s
Establishing a Solo 401(k) before year-end is a strategic move for business owners, allowing them to contribute effectively towards their retirement while maximizing tax deductions. The Solo 401(k) plan offers flexibility and the potential for higher contribution limits compared to traditional IRAs, enabling substantial tax-deferred growth opportunities. Additionally, these plans can come with loan provisions, allowing business owners to access funds if necessary without incurring penalties. Setting this up before year-end ensures the full benefits are available for contributions in the following tax year, solidifying a more secure financial future.
In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler welcomes Carter Cofield to discuss must-know year-end tax strategies that can save you money and set you up for success. They dive into the "December loophole" for vehicle depreciation, maximizing health savings accounts (HSAs), and using Roth conversions to lower your future tax burden. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, these actionable tips are essential for closing out the year on a strong financial footing.
Here are some of the highlights:
Mark and Carter discuss the tax benefits of renting out a primary residence for business purposes, emphasizing the $14,000 tax deduction and tax-free income potential.
Mark comments on the current market trends, including rising markets, crypto, and interest rates, urging listeners to invest in their future and business.
How to hold board meetings during family gatherings to write off travel and dining expenses, making it a tax-efficient holiday activity.
Carter highlights the importance of reviewing entity structures in the last quarter of the year, especially for LLC owners with unexpected profits.
They emphasize the need to finalize payroll amounts before year-end to avoid last-minute adjustments and penalties.
Explanation of the "December loophole" for healthcare, where health insurance must be in place before December 1 to qualify for the entire year's HSA contribution deduction.
The importance of planning and using tax savings accounts strategically to maximize tax benefits.
Need more Carter Cofield in your life? Check him out on the Melanin Money Show