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Tax Tips Small Business

Do You Know How Much Your Business Is Worth?

Tips for placing a value on your business

There are several reasons why you should know the value of your business. if you are planning to sell your business, the general rule is that you should sell it for fair market value. In many instances the term "fair market value" is somewhat ambiguous. In the simplest sense, fair market value is what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller, with each party knowing all the pertinent facts.

Small Business Quick Tip

Instead of deducting the actual expenses for the business use of your vehicle, opt for the standard mileage rate. In 2008, you can deduct 50.5 cents for each business mile you drive (58.5 cents for each business mile you drive after July 1st).

Money for College

Are scholarships taxable?

Many college students receive scholarships or fellowships to help pay for their education. If you are in college and received a scholarship or fellowship grant, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Qualified scholarships and fellowships are treated as tax-free and not included in taxable income if all of the following conditions are met:

You are a candidate for a degree at an educational institution.
The amount received as a scholarship or fellowship is used for tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution, or for books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction.
The amounts received are not a payment for services.

If the scholarship or fellowship received exceeds the cost of tuition, fees, books, or other qualified expenses listed above, the excess will be taxable.

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Wednesday, 03 December 2008

What is an Enrolled Agent and why should I care?

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Tax Tips Personal

Making Gifts

Know what gifts are taxable

When an individual receives a gift, whether cash or property, the gift is generally not taxable to that individual. Sometimes, however, the gift giver may incur a gift tax liability when making certain gifts. If you make a gift to family members or other individuals, you can give $12,000 or less in value to a single individual during the year

Personal Quick Tip

It doesn't appear that a college education will get cheaper any time soon. Look into establishing a qualified tuition plan for your children. The earnings in the account grow tax-free. As long as the funds are spent on qualified education expenses, there are no tax consequences. Plus, there may be an added tax benefit at your state level.