Are you ready to take your business to the next level? When you change the way your customer views your value, your business thrives. This means more consistent streams of revenue, higher revenue, and increased customer respect. How do you accomplish this? Let your client see you as transformative rather than simply trusted. If you provide any type of service for your customer, you want them to see you as competent, attentive, and punctual. But what if they saw you as transformational, as someone they couldn’t carry on without? When you do this, you solidify a partnership and make your business invaluable to your client. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we aim to help you be as successful and profitable as possible, so we put together a list of four things you can apply today to go from being trusted to being transformative.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? When you change the way your customer views your value, your business thrives. This means more consistent streams of revenue, higher revenue, and increased customer respect. How do you accomplish this? Let your client see you as transformative rather than simply trusted. If you provide any type of service for your customer, you want them to see you as competent, attentive, and punctual. But what if they saw you as transformational, as someone they couldn’t carry on without? When you do this, you solidify a partnership and make your business invaluable to your client. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we aim to help you be as successful and profitable as possible, so we put together a list of four things you can apply today to go from being trusted to being transformative.

1. Narrow Your Focus

Determine the sweet spot where your passion meets your expertise. Once you’ve established your niche, begin seeking and serving clients within that niche only. It may sound counterintuitive, but you will find a more committed, consistent customer when you narrow your focus, rather than trying to meet the needs of every potential customer. Think of your ideal customer like a target. When you know exactly where you’re aiming, you have a much better chance of hitting the target. When you have no target, there’s no way you’ll hit it. Know who your business is aiming to reach and you’ll find that your ideal customer is looking for your business, too.

2. Know Your Value

As a society, we associate price with value. You probably do this subconsciously, but this is why you’re willing to pay for an expensive meal at a 5-star restaurant. You know the quality of both food and service is worth every penny, but you would never pay that amount of money for a fast-food burger and fries. When it comes to your business, you need to know your value. What is your service worth? When you charge more money for a product or service, you’re telling your customer that what you have to offer has a high value and will be worth every penny. We recommend that you consider the value of your service when you set your prices, rather than simply charging by the hour. If your product or service will transform your client's life, then your price needs to reflect that.

3. Manage Change Effectively

As you narrow your focus on your ideal client and determine your company’s value, you may need to make changes to your business strategy. You can follow a start-stop-continue plan of action to make sure you hit your target customer and transform your business. You may need to start something new that will impact your client and your revenue. When you start something new, for it to succeed, you’ll need to stop doing something that isn’t working. “Because this is how we’ve always done it” is a terrible reason to keep putting time and resources towards a project or idea that has little benefit to you or your client. Then, you need to establish day-to-day activities that are crucial to keep your business functioning and continue doing those things. When your business is focused on completing “business as usual” tasks and

creating and implementing new ideas that will generate excitement, customer loyalty, and profits, you’ll see your business thrive.

4. Cultivate Client Love

Your job is to offer more than just customer service, but customer love. You want to establish a relationship between you and your client, a relationship where they feel important and feel that they need you. This is achievable when you create an atmosphere of love for your customer—you look out for them, take the initiative to meet their needs, and treat them like they mean more to you than a transaction. Once they see that you provide a service or product that specifically meets their needs, make your value known, and care for them individually, you’ve cultivated client love. You go from being a trusted business to a transformative business—a business your customer can’t live without.

If you’re ready to apply these four steps to transform your business, but want to consult with an advisor first, contact us at Ingram, Wallis, & Co. We can help you determine the most profitable adjustments your company needs to make and help you successfully prepare to transform your business.

When it comes to business expenditures, every dollar counts. So does every deduction. If you’re not careful, you may be ignoring easy tax-deductions that can have a big impact on your finances. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we don’t want you to miss a single dollar in your tax return. Pay attention to the four expenses listed below and consider using them as a key business strategy.

When it comes to business expenditures, every dollar counts. So does every deduction. If you’re not careful, you may be ignoring easy tax-deductions that can have a big impact on your finances. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we don’t want you to miss a single dollar in your tax return. Pay attention to the four expenses listed below and consider using them as a key business strategy.

1. Electronic Devices

Any of your electronic devices or supplies used for your business can be included in your tax write-off. This includes computers, laptops, smartphones, cameras, iPads, speakers, video cameras, and drones. Anything that you use for 100% business use, is 100% deductible. But you may need to evaluate how much you use your electronic devices for personal reasons. It may be better to claim 80% or 50% if you use the same device for both personal and business use.

2. Internet and Phone Service

Because WiFi, phone, and internet services are crucial to the productivity of your business, you can write off the cost of these services. This is true whether you work from home or work in a traditional office space. If you have a dedicated phone line for your home, then you can write off 100% of your mobile phone service. If you work from home and share your internet or WiFi with your family, you won’t be able to deduct 100% of the cost, but any amount is better than nothing. 

3. Travel Expenses

You can deduct 100% of your travel expenses if your travel is business-related. This includes airfare, hotel, car rental, taxis, and valet parking. You can also write-off home rental expenses through services such as VRBO and Airbnb or rideshare trips through services like Uber or Lyft. Unsure if your travel can be counted as business-related? Consider meeting with a client or vendor while you’re on the road. Find a conference or training event nearby that can provide networking opportunities or professional growth. Hold an annual board of directors, shareholders, or member meeting to make the trip tax-deductible.

When claiming a tax write-off for travel expenses, you need to be cautious about how much you attempt to deduct. We recommend only writing off expenses for travel days and days you do a minimum of four hours of actual work.

4. Entertainment and Meals

Business is often conducted over meals, which is why this is an important line item on your tax return. However, dining deductions are currently limited to 50%. Dining experiences that are tax-deductible include meals with a client, potential client, vendor, or partner, and meals that you consume alone while traveling on a business trip, and food provided in the office for employees. Food provided at a presentation or event for customers is 100% deductible. It is important to track this separately so that you can receive the full deduction. 100% deductions are also available for special employee events like a company holiday party, training activity, or reward. 

Currently, entertainment with employees, board members, employees, vendors, or clients is non-deductible, but that is subject to change with the new tax code coming in 2023.

It’s important to keep receipts or copies of receipts for every expense that falls within the discussed categories to get the most out of your tax return. As long as you keep good records, our skilled CPAs at Ingram, Wallis, and Co. can help you find the most deductions and save an incredible amount of money. Ready to trust us with your business? Contact us today.

You’ve worked hard for your wealth, so why leave it up for grabs when creditors and lawsuits start lurking? Don’t you want to see your assets passed down to your children or set aside for your family to enjoy? We want that for you, too! It’s time to take a defensive stand and set up a hedge of protection around you. Scott Schomer, an Estate Planning Attorney makes this statement: “The general rule is – you need to start planning before your creditor’s start making claims against you.” Our team at Ingram, Wallis, & Co. wants to educate you on potential lawsuits you may face and how you can protect what’s yours. 

You’ve worked hard for your wealth, so why leave it up for grabs when creditors and lawsuits start lurking? Don’t you want to see your assets passed down to your children or set aside for your family to enjoy? We want that for you, too! It’s time to take a defensive stand and set up a hedge of protection around you. Scott Schomer, an Estate Planning Attorney makes this statement: “The general rule is – you need to start planning before your creditor’s start making claims against you.” Our team at Ingram, Wallis, & Co. wants to educate you on potential lawsuits you may face and how you can protect what’s yours. 

9 Professional Liabilities

Don’t get too comfortable believing that nothing can threaten your hard-earned wealth. The deeper your pockets, the bigger the target on your back. Beware of these nine professional liability problems you may have to face.

• Trademark Infringement Laws

Original trademark owners could sue you for using their songs, displaying their characters, or copying their name if you’re not careful. Don’t assume no one will find out or that it’s not a big deal. It is.

• Sexual Harassment Accusations

When it comes to sexual harassment, you’re just one accusation away from a lawsuit. Be smart and be above board with every employee to keep your name clear.

• Employment Discrimination

This includes the hiring and firing process. And unfortunately, you can face a lawsuit even if it’s not justified. Make sure managers know exactly what they can and cannot say before they put your company at risk.          

• Faulty Products

You may be liable for damages if someone gets injured by using one of your products.

• Malpractice Claims

Malpractice claims don’t solely affect doctors and lawyers. A financial advisor could be held personally liable if he or she is accused of selling an unsuitable investment.

• Breach of Contract Claims

You could be held responsible for someone else’s financial loss if you fail to uphold your end of a contract. Be sure to carry out every term on the agreement to avoid this potential lawsuit.

• Work-Related Vehicle Accidents

If a driver from your catering company hits a pedestrian while out on a delivery, you can be held responsible for all damages, even though you are not technically at fault.

• Workers Compensation

If one of your employees gets hurt on the job, you will be the one responsible for covering all treatment and rehabilitation. Many workers compensation insurance laws will require you to have insurance for both your employees and your business.

• “Slip-and-Fall” Accidents

            If a client or customer injures themselves by slipping and falling on your property, their attorney will surely come after you as the responsible party.

9 Personal Liabilities

Maybe everything about your business is above board. There are still other ways you could face a lawsuit. The following nine possibilities are considered personal liabilities.

• Divorce

Because your former spouse most likely knows the ins and outs of your finances, divorce often leads to a messy problem for your bank account and your business. Consider a prenuptial agreement to make sure the business can thrive if you and your spouse should ever divorce.

• Auto Accidents

You could be held liable even if you weren’t the one behind the wheel. Double-check your coverage for you and your family to make sure it’s sufficient.

• Social Host Liability

If you host a party and serve alcohol to your guests, you could be held responsible for any accident or injury caused by one of your guests after they leave the party. This also applies to teenagers, should one of your children host a party while you’re out of town.

• Vicarious Liability

You could face a lawsuit if your business partner or employee gets in a car accident.

• Employee Actions

Your company could be sued if your employee causes damage. Even more, you could personally be held liable if your assets are not protected from business debts.

• Debt

If you lose your job and acquire too much debt, it may result in bankruptcy.

• Medical Issues

If serious medical problems leave you unable to work and therefore, unable to pay your bills, you are still liable. Even good insurance coverage may not be enough for various expenses which can also result in bankruptcy.

• A Callable Loan

Sometimes, lenders will “call” the loan, forcing you to pay the debt immediately. If you are unable to refinance the debt, you’ll be expected to sell the asset to repay the lender. Failure to do so could lead to bankruptcy.

• Foreclosure

The bank can seize your property in foreclosure if you fail to make your mortgage payments. While there are certain restrictions on your residence, no restrictions are applied to commercial loans. If you’re not careful, a commercial foreclosure could leave your other assets at risk.

6 Ways to Protect Your Assets

Rather than allowing this information to make you anxious, let it motivate you to take the proper steps in protecting your assets. There are many potential threats which is why it’s crucial to put defensive measures in place. Here are six ways you can make it difficult for creditors to seize your assets.

• Use Business Entities

As an entrepreneur, it’s vital to separate your assets from business assets. Failure to take legal steps to create a business entity like a corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or limited partnership could cost you everything in a business dispute.

• Own Insurance

Insurance is necessary for all business owners, especially those who are in a field that is threatened by malpractice lawsuits. Regardless of your type of business, be sure to have adequate homeowner’s insurance, commercial liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance, auto insurance, umbrella coverage, and long-term care insurance.

• Use Retirement Accounts

Utilize the protection under retirement accounts like IRAs and ERISA-qualified plans. Know the Texas state laws regarding retirement protection and consider moving excess money into retirement accounts to best protect long-term savings.

• Homestead Exemptions

In Texas, state law protects an unlimited amount of home equity. This means that courts cannot award your home equity to creditors if you are forced to declare bankruptcy.

• Annuities and Life Insurance

You may benefit from state legislation that protects annuity balances and assets in cash value life insurance policies. Because each state varies in its protection, it’s important to speak with a licensed attorney in Texas.

• Get Rid of It

Creditors cannot take what you do not own. So you may consider transferring your ownership of assets to irrevocable trusts. You can also give assets away directly to family members through a strategic gifting program that excludes you from paying a gift tax. Or, consider an “advance on your will” and transfer assets to your children early.

Do not wait until there is a lawsuit breathing down your neck to make a move. Protect your assets today. If you need a trusted financial advisor in the Bryan-College Station area, contact us at Ingram, Wallis & Co. Let our team of accounts and advisors help you make the smartest financial decision that will protect you and your business for years to come.

Your company may be clear on your budget cycle, but do you have a clear understanding of the accounting cycle? The budget cycle helps you plan for the future and gauge your operating performance. It is generally used internally. However, the accounting cycle manages information for external use and therefore, plays a significant role in the financial health of your business. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co. we are dedicated to helping you report every financial transaction correctly. If you’re hesitant about whether or not you’re utilizing the accounting cycle effectively, let us answer your questions and put you at ease today.

Your company may be clear on your budget cycle, but do you have a clear understanding of the accounting cycle? The budget cycle helps you plan for the future and gauge your operating performance. It is generally used internally. However, the accounting cycle manages information for external use and therefore, plays a significant role in the financial health of your business. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co. we are dedicated to helping you report every financial transaction correctly. If you’re hesitant about whether or not you’re utilizing the accounting cycle effectively, let us answer your questions and put you at ease today.

What Is the Accounting Cycle?

The accounting cycle identifies, analyzes, and records the accounting history of your company. Each transaction signifies the start of the accounting cycle and, after multiple steps, the cycle concludes when that transaction is listed on the correct financial statements. Accounting records such as the general ledger and trial balance are also included in the accounting cycle.

What Are the Steps of the Accounting Cycle?

There are typically eight steps in the accounting cycle:

1. Identify Transactions: Any transaction that involves the use of, or the exchange of, your company’s assets must be noted. Receipts and invoices can help identify such transactions, so it’s important to keep financial documents until you are certain you no longer need them.
2. Record Transactions: Utilize the appropriate journal to make entries of each transaction. List every financial transaction in chronological order. It’s best to keep your journal current by noting transactions as they happen.
3. Posting: Once it’s recorded in the appropriate journal, each transaction must be posted to the correct account in the general ledger. Known as the book of final entry, the general ledger keeps track of all changes made to every account in your books.
4. Unadjusted trial balance: A trial balance lets your company know if your books are in balance. In the middle of your accounting cycle, we recommend using an unadjusted trial balance to determine whether or not your debits and credits match. Find the balance of every account.
5. Worksheet: The fifth step allows you to adjust entries in order to balance the book. When you create a worksheet, you add all debt balances and all credit balances and determine if the two totals are equal. If they are not, then a specific entry may need to be adjusted, or there may be an error in your books. 
6. Adjusting Journal Entries: The adjusting entries that were tracked in your company’s worksheet, are then posted to the right accounts. This step allows you to ensure your debits and credits are equal.
7. Financial Statements: Generate your financial statements after you make all adjusting entries.
8. Closing the Books: The final step in the accounting cycle is to close your books. Then, you can begin the cycle again with a zero balance. At this point, you can determine which transactions or processes are propelling your company forward. We recommend filing all paperwork from the accounting cycle and shredding old documents if they are no longer needed.

What is the Timing of an Accounting Cycle?

The accounting cycle must begin and end within the given accounting period. This period depends on various factors and can vary, although, the most common accounting period is an annual period. Within the year, all transactions must be recorded and financial statements must be prepared by a certain date.

How Can Ingram, Wallis, & Co. Help?

Ingram Wallis has helped thousands of local business owners and entrepreneurs in the Bryan/College Station area over the last 40 years. Our certified CPAs are skilled at helping you establish an accounting cycle for your business or help you with the day-to-day details of bookkeeping so that you can focus on managing your company. Set an appointment with someone on our team today by calling 979-776-2600. We’ll help your business thrive by taking care of your accounting needs.

Have you recently inherited a large sum of money? This is known as a windfall, and while it can be a huge blessing, it can also be a curse if you don’t know what to do with it. In fact, intergenerational wealth transfers fail by the time it reaches the second generation because the recipient is clueless. Clueless about how to effectively manage the windfall and how to educate other families on handling the money expertly. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we want to help you establish a plan that protects the windfall and successfully grows your wealth for generations to come. We’re here to guide you through this transition so that it can actually be a blessing for you and your family.

Have you recently inherited a large sum of money? This is known as a windfall, and while it can be a huge blessing, it can also be a curse if you don’t know what to do with it. In fact, intergenerational wealth transfers fail by the time it reaches the second generation because the recipient is clueless. Clueless about how to effectively manage the windfall and how to educate other families on handling the money expertly. At Ingram, Wallis, & Co., we want to help you establish a plan that protects the windfall and successfully grows your wealth for generations to come. We’re here to guide you through this transition so that it can actually be a blessing for you and your family.

Step 1: Hire A Financial Advisor

Once you receive a windfall, you should immediately hire a financial advisor who will assemble a team that helps you effectively manage your inheritance. Your team will include tax, legal, risk management, and investment professionals to ensure the money is not squandered.

Step 2: Create A Plan

This may be a slow process and that’s okay. You have probably never had to manage this amount of money before, so it’s natural to take your time as you create a plan that will protect your newfound wealth. Working alongside a team will give you the education and confidence you need to ensure the money lasts for future generations. If you make choices too quickly or without a full understanding of the repercussions, you risk losing your inheritance. But, with the help of a trusted advisory team, you can make sure that you are receiving, protecting, and spending your money in a way that sets you up for success.

Step 3: Bring In The Next Generation

To make sure your family’s wealth is successfully passed down to future generations, it’s crucial that you educate the next generation. When they have a full understanding of your family’s wealth and understand the plan for managing the money, you solidify your future success. Many people choose to shelter their children, but this does the family an injustice. We encourage you to teach the generation below you how to work with the advisory team and give them a clear view of your family’s financial plan.

Receiving, and handling, a windfall can be daunting at first. But when you utilize the expertise of financial advisors, you will set yourself and your family up for generations of prosperity. Let us help you reach, and maintain, your financial goals. Our advisors at Ingram, Wallis, & Co. are committed to teaching you how to successfully manage a windfall so that you can successfully protect and enjoy your family’s wealth. Call our office today at 979-776-2600 to set up an appointment with a financial advisor

There are four basic financial statements that are necessary, three that are most valuable, to effectively convey the health of your business. These financial statements are records that show the activity and financial performance of your business. Each of these statements can be used by investors, financial analysts, and creditors to analyze your company’s performance, make predictions about future stock prices, determine your earnings potential. Maintaining accurate financial statements is key in the event that you are audited. At Ingram, Wallis & Company, we want to help our clients understand the purpose behind each financial statement and how to utilize them properly. We care about the overall health of your business, and we understand that a thriving business is best articulated through the correct use of each financial statement.

There are four basic financial statements that are necessary, three that are most valuable, to effectively convey the health of your business. These financial statements are records that show the activity and financial performance of your business. Each of these statements can be used by investors, financial analysts, and creditors to analyze your company’s performance, make predictions about future stock prices, determine your earnings potential. Maintaining accurate financial statements is key in the event that you are audited. At Ingram, Wallis & Company, we want to help our clients understand the purpose behind each financial statement and how to utilize them properly. We care about the overall health of your business, and we understand that a thriving business is best articulated through the correct use of each financial statement.

1. Income Statement

This is perhaps the most valuable of the four financial statements because it displays the operating results of the entire company. The Income Statement includes revenues, expenses, profits/losses that were generated during a specific period. Quarterly statements are analyzed as well as an annual statement that is created at the end of the fiscal year. Expenses are subtracted from the revenue which identifies the company’s overall profit—net income.

2. Balance Sheet

The Balance Sheet is the second most important financial statement because it supplies pertinent information about the liquidity and capitalization of the company. At the close of the fiscal year. The balance shot will give an overview of assets, liabilities, and stockholders’ equity. The formula for the Balance Sheet (also known as the accounting equation) is Assets=(Liabilities+Owner’s Equity)Assets=(Liabilities+Owner’s Equity).

Your balance sheet will provide the total assets for the given period. On a separate listing, you’ll find the total of all liabilities. When you locate the shareholders’ equity, you’ll add the number of total liabilities. Your assets total should equal the total of liabilities as well as the total equity within that time period. Assets on the balance sheet will be listed in order of liquidity, and liabilities in order of expected payment.

3. Cash Flow Statement

This statement will be most necessary when issuing financial statements to an outside party. However, it can be a helpful comparison to your income statement and balance sheet. The Cash Flow Statement reports the cash inflows and

outflows during the reporting period. It tells you—and investors—how effectively a company generates cash to pay its debts (financing activities), fund operating expenses (operating activities), and fund investments (investing activities). This statement provides information about your company’s overall operations, identifies where the money is coming from, and how that money is being spent. Investors can easily determine whether or not a company has solid financial footing from the Cash Flow Statement.

4. Statement of Retained Earnings

This statement identifies changes in equity during the reporting period. This statement is not generally used but is necessary in the event of an audit. While there is not a standard reporting format for the Statement of Retained Earnings, it can include the sale or repurchase of shares and dividend payments. It may also report any changes that are caused by profits or losses.

Our team of talented CPAs at Ingram, Wallis, & Company are not only skilled accountants, but promise to offer every client honesty, accuracy, impartiality, and confidence. We will assist you in preparing your financial statements to ensure every line is in accordance with professional standards. We will set you up accurate reporting without expressing any opinion. If you need our help so that you can run your business successfully and efficiently, call us today at 979-776-2600.

Financial success, freedom to set your own schedule, and more time for the things that are truly important are three reasons you may have started your own business. You’re not alone if you find yourself frustrated that none of these goals are actually true. Instead, you increased your workload, have an overstuffed schedule, and see very little profit. The long weekends to take family vacations, the steady cash flow, and a growing staff? You feel as though it was all a mirage.

Financial success, freedom to set your own schedule, and more time for the things that are truly important are three reasons you may have started your own business. You’re not alone if you find yourself frustrated that none of these goals are actually true. Instead, you increased your workload, have an overstuffed schedule, and see very little profit. The long weekends to take family vacations, the steady cash flow, and a growing staff? You feel as though it was all a mirage.

Why Is There No Freedom in My Business?

This common trap most small business owners fall into is affectionately called “the small busyness trap.” When you first launched your business, your business model and long-term plans were to grow— to get clients and keep them. So, you most likely initiated and managed all client relationships. Now, whether it’s been months or years, you are still the sole person in total control of every aspect of your business. In order to experience the financial and scheduling freedom you dream about, you have to realize it’s not your job to take care of your business. It is your job to create a team and establish a system that effectively manages clients. The team should take care of the business and your business should take care of you. When you neglect to create a system, you fail to have the freedom that led you to start your business in the first place.

How Can Establish a System?

In order to create a business model that supports the lifestyle and income you desire, you’ll have to answer these two questions: Why did you start this business? What will you do to reach your goals?

Once you are confident about your purpose and intent, you need to determine how you will receive your income. Income can be divided into these three categories:

Active, Non-Recurring Income

This is an infrequent or unique form of revenue that is likely to happen again within the normal course of business. But it is not necessarily consistent. Depending on the type of work you provide for your clients, this type of income is similar to a one-time sale. It may be centered around solving a problem, troubleshooting, or taking on a specific task. Despite the fact that it’s non-recurring, these services have a high potential for commoditization and are beneficial to your business plan.

Active, Recurring Income

As the name infers, this type of income is repetitive but it is dependent on the physical work of an employee. You will receive payment for the same work completed on a monthly or yearly basis. For example, if you establish an advertising or consulting contract with your client, you will see a steady stream of income. If your clients have a product subscription with your business, you will continuously supply their order and they will submit payment. Recurring services are desirable for your client and ensure cash flow for your business. Just remember that efficiency and certainty are crucial if you want your client to stick around.

Passive, Recurring Income

A steady stream of revenue that requires minimal effort and little to no daily upkeep is passive, recurring income. In many cases, you may need to partner with a software vendor in order to generate a continuous income. This idea stems from the subscription model, where customers pay an ongoing fee to access your product. For you, all of the work is completed on the front end. You create a desirable solution for your client one time and package it in a way that your client receives the entire solution over the course of time. They pay a monthly fee, but the (hard) work is finished. Your product could include a webinar series or access to an online resource library your team created. This takes a little creativity, but the payoff is worth the effort.

The most successful business plan includes a mix of active and passive recurring income. This will add more margin to your schedule and increase your cash flow. It’s best to look at your business model, assess the types of products and services you offer, and make sure the entirety of your income is not dependent on active, non-recurring revenue.

If you want assistance in establishing a successful business model, are ready to entrust someone else to take care of the bookkeeping, or need help developing a payroll system, it’s time to contact Ingram-Wallis & Co. Our trusted team of accountants is dedicated to helping your small business thrive. We offer countless services to our clients so that they can do what they love. Call us today at 979-776-2600.

Most people underutilize the knowledge and expertise of an accountant. They recognize the need for a professional to file their taxes but don’t rely on an accountant throughout the rest of the year. If you want your business to succeed financially, hiring an accountant is the best decision you will make. This frees you up to do what you’re best at—running your business. By allowing an accountant to manage your finances, you will be set up for a prosperous future. Nearly 80% of small businesses fail within the first 18 months as a result of poor financial planning. But this doesn’t have to be true for you. At Ingram Wallis, we want to see your business flourish and remain in a healthy financial state. Our goal is to guide you and help you make the right financial decisions for your business so that you don’t become a statistic. We’ll show you five reasons why hiring an accountant is beneficial to the financial success of your business.

Most people underutilize the knowledge and expertise of an accountant. They recognize the need for a professional to file their taxes but don’t rely on an accountant throughout the rest of the year. If you want your business to succeed financially, hiring an accountant is the best decision you will make. This frees you up to do what you’re best at—running your business. By allowing an accountant to manage your finances, you will be set up for a prosperous future. Nearly 80% of small businesses fail within the first 18 months as a result of poor financial planning. But this doesn’t have to be true for you. At Ingram Wallis, we want to see your business flourish and remain in a healthy financial state. Our goal is to guide you and help you make the right financial decisions for your business so that you don’t become a statistic. We’ll show you five reasons why hiring an accountant is beneficial to the financial success of your business.

 1. Claim Every Possible Deduction

Many business owners don’t consider tax deductions until it’s time to file at the end of the year. But by then, it’s too late. Your accountant is aware of every possible deduction. They can give you advice on decisions to make throughout the year that will maximize your year-end deductions. While you may forget to track things like out-of-pocket expenses, home office space, and depreciation, your accountant won’t let you leave money on the table.

 2. Avoid An Audit

Businesses can be audited for a variety of reasons: multiple mistakes on tax forms, excessive write-offs, or charitable claims that are too high. An accountant will eliminate errors and red flags from appearing on your tax forms. An accountant is unable to fix problems once they’ve occurred, so having an accountant on your team before an audit is more beneficial than waiting until you’re under the scrutiny of the IRS.

 3. Maximize Your Time and Energy

Your time is your most valuable resource and your energy is limited. So instead of exerting your energy and using your time to keep track of financial details, focus your time on energy on running your business. Leave the rest to your accountant. The cost of an accountant is worth every dollar you’ll save by reporting your taxes correctly, avoiding poor financial decisions, and using your extra time to make another sale.

 4. Access To A Financial Advisor

Your accountant is invested in the success of your business. Consider your accountant as a business partner with whom you can collaborate on financial decisions. Your accountant can

serve as your financial advisor who helps you with budgeting, monitoring cash flow, and understanding the implications of making large purchases or expanding your business. When you share your vision and financial goals with your accountant, they can keep you on track and help you reach your goals.

5. Be Confident In Your Future

As you focus on the day-to-day operations, your accountant is able to see the big picture and support the long-term vision for your business. Your accountant can help you understand when it’s time to order new inventory or budget for investment items that will not only keep your business healthy but also thriving. As your business partner and financial advisor, your accountant will give you advice on how to plan for the future so that you’re set up for success years down the road.

Thousands of business owners and individuals in Bryan-College Station have trusted Ingram, Wallis & Co to help manage their accounting needs over the last 40 years. We have many accounting services that give us the opportunity to partner with you so your business can be successful for years to come. To schedule a meeting with one of our accountants, call 979-776-2600 today.

Once you file your tax return, you probably don’t want to hear from the IRS—unless they’re sending you a refund. You certainly don’t want to receive a notice saying there was a red flag on your tax return. These notices can often be confusing and cause unnecessary stress on your part. The best thing you can do is take extra care when you’re filing to avoid any mistake that may raise a red flag. If you follow these five steps, you’ll have nothing to worry about.

Once you file your tax return, you probably don’t want to hear from the IRS—unless they’re sending you a refund. You certainly don’t want to receive a notice saying there was a red flag on your tax return. These notices can often be confusing and cause unnecessary stress on your part. The best thing you can do is take extra care when you’re filing to avoid any mistake that may raise a red flag. If you follow these five steps, you’ll have nothing to worry about.

Record amounts on the correct line

If you report the full amount of your income but report it incorrectly, you’re sure to receive a notice from the IRS. This is especially common for taxpayers who report non-employee compensation from a 1099-MISC as “Other Income.” Instead, it must be reported on the Schedule C, Profit and Loss from a Business. When filing your tax return, it is imperative that income amounts are recorded in the category that directly matches the line item on your return.

Do not group income amounts

When processing tax returns, the IRS systems are looking for an exact match between your return and the information they already have. Therefore, you cannot combine income amounts in an attempt to simplify your return. If you worked multiple jobs, be sure to enter each W-2 separately. If you have several stock trades on Form 1099-B, you will need to report each trade separately. You can do this by including every trade on Form 8949, or you can combine trades within the short-term or long-term category on your Schedule D. You’ll also want to attach a spreadsheet showing each trade as reflected on your Schedule D.

Include delayed or corrected payer documents

If you have a corrected W-2 or 1099, you need to note this on your return. If the corrected statement isn’t sent to you prior to filing your tax return, you will need to correct your tax return and attach the corrected statement. If you are waiting to receive a delayed or corrected information statement, file an extension and pay the tax you estimate you’ll owe. This will help you avoid interest and other expensive penalties. 

Include schedule and information statements (if paper filing)

If you are filing your return electronically, you can submit electronic copies of your information statements like a W-2 or 1099 as well as your Form 1040 Schedules. If you are mailing your return, you’ll need to send physical copies of these documents. You do not need to include copies of receipts or other records, however, we recommend keeping them for a minimum of three years just in case you are audited.

Use gross income amounts

Do not report your net amount unless the return specifically requests it. Amounts due or paid to other sources should also be gross amounts. By reporting your net income, you will raise a red flag for the IRS who assumes you are withholding information. It is important to always be upfront when filing your tax return. 

If you are concerned about whether or not you’re filing correctly, make an appointment with Ingram, Wallis, & Co. at 979-776-2600. Our team is dedicated to accuracy and honesty as we file taxes for businesses and individuals. Confidently avoid IRS red flags by trusting us to file your tax return.

We see you scouring the internet for clues about how you can increase your tax refund and reduce the amount of taxes you owe. You wish you knew an expert who could tell you all about tax breaks and whether or not you can take advantage of them. We’ll give you insight into the 10 most popular tax credits and deductions, so you save money and expand your refund.

We see you scouring the internet for clues about how you can increase your tax refund and reduce the amount of taxes you owe. You wish you knew an expert who could tell you all about tax breaks and whether or not you can take advantage of them. We’ll give you insight into the 10 most popular tax credits and deductions, so you save money and expand your refund.

1.The Child and Dependent Care Credit

If your work or job search prevents you from taking care of your child or dependent full time, consider the Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC). This credit can be used towards care expenses as long the hired caregiver is not a parent or a spouse. You may be eligible for up to 35% of care costs, however, there is a limit of $3,000 for one dependent or $6,000 for multiple dependents.

2. The Child Tax Credit

Unlike a credit toward care expenses, the Child Tax Credit (CTC) is a tax break to help support parents as they take on additional costs having a child brings. If your child is 17 years old or younger and is listed as a dependent on your tax return, this credit may apply to you. Each qualifying child may give you a credit up to $2,000 if you do not reach the income limit. The CTC is “phased out” at $400,000 for those filing jointly and $200,000 for single filing.

3. The Additional Child Tax Credit

While the name may be confusing, the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) is an additional credit for your child, not an indication of an additional child. If you were unable to claim the full CTC, you may be able to receive the remainder as a refund. CTC requirements still qualify. Under this credit, you may receive up to 15% of your taxable earned income minus $2,500. There is also a limit of $1,400 per child.

4. The Credit for Other Dependents

If your dependents do not qualify for the CTC or ACTC, a new Credit for Other Dependents is available. You can receive a non-refundable $500 credit for each adult dependent under your care. This includes parents, grandparents, or children over the age of 17. 

5. The Earned Income Tax Credit

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is available for low to moderate-income taxpayers. This includes working families or individuals who receive an earned income. Your income can come from wages, salaries, tips, long-term disability payments, or net earnings from self-employment. You are not eligible for EITC if you receive an income through retirement, social security benefits, interest or dividends, alimony or child support, or unemployment benefits.

6. Saver’s Credit

The Saver’s Credit gives you a credit of up to $1,000 for single filers and up to $2,000 for married couples if you are saving for retirement. When you file, note any contributions you make to a retirement plan such as a 401(k), IRA or Roth IRA.

7. The American Opportunity Tax Credit

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOC) applies to expenses incurred during the first four years of an undergraduate degree. The credit is worth $2,500 but up to $1,000 is refundable even if you didn’t overpay your taxes. However, there is an income limit before the credit begins decreasing. The limit is $80,000 for a single filer or $160,000 for married couples filing jointly.

8. The Lifetime Learning Credit

The other tax credit offered for those pursuing higher education is the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC). This credit applies to taxpayers who are in graduate school, or who participate in post-secondary, career-related, or vocational courses. The credit is not refundable but can give you a tax break up to $2,000.

9. State and Local Tax Deduction (SALT)

You can claim deductions for a portion of your income tax if you live in a state with a state or local income tax. This deduction is worth up to $10,000 or $5,000 if you are married and filing separately.

10. Charitable Donations and Expenses

You can receive a tax deduction for donations made to qualifying charities. You can also receive a tax break for unreimbursed expenses incurred while volunteering. This includes gas mileage and supplies as long as the organization does not reimburse you. You may even be eligible for a deduction up to 50% of your adjusted gross income.

In order to save more money or receive more money in your tax refund, you need to understand which of these tax breaks applies to you. But if you trust Ingram, Wallis & Co. with your taxes, you can eliminate the guessing game and walk into Tax Day with confidence. We will work to find the tax breaks that benefit you. Contact us for an appointment today at 979-776-2600.

Source: https://www.1040.com/blog/2019/1/30/top-10-most-popular-credits-and-deductions/

https://www.1040.com/tax-guide/taxes-for-families/child-tax-credits/

https://www.1040.com/tax-guide/tax-savings-strategies/qualifying-for-the-eic/

Many changes have been made in the new legislation that will affect nearly every taxpayer. So, as you prepare to file your 2018 taxes, we want you to understand the new tax reform laws. You’ll have more confidence as you file when you know how you’ll be impacted by the new tax provisions. Below are several categories that have been adjusted in the bill and how these changes will affect you.

Many changes have been made in the new legislation that will affect nearly every taxpayer. So, as you prepare to file your 2018 taxes, we want you to understand the new tax reform laws. You’ll have more confidence as you file when you know how you’ll be impacted by the new tax provisions. Below are several categories that have been adjusted in the bill and how these changes will affect you.

Tax Rate

The tax rate was lowered across the board. The income thresholds associated with each tax rate were also adjusted.

The previous tax brackets were: 10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 33%, 35% and 39.6%

The 2018 brackets are: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%

This chart shows how your income aligns with the new tax rate. 

 Standard Deduction

The standard deduction is a set amount that reduces your taxable income. Under the new bill, the standard deduction for every filing status is nearly doubled compared to previous years. You have the choice to claim your standard deduction or itemize your deductions when it’s time to file. At Ingram Wallis, we’ll help you make the right decision.

Miscellaneous Deductions

Under the tax reform bill, miscellaneous items are suspended if it exceeds two percent of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Miscellaneous items include unreimbursed employee expenses, investment management fees, safe deposit fees, and union dues. If you typically deduct miscellaneous items, don’t plan on it this year.

Personal Deductions

The tax reform bill also eliminated personal deductions, meaning you cannot claim a personal exemption for yourself, your spouse, or any dependents. 

State and Local Tax

In previous years, the deduction for state and local income tax was unlimited. Under the new law, there is a cap at $10,000 for joint or single filers. The cap moves to $5,000 for a married person filing separately.  This means that you can still deduct property and income tax or sales tax as itemized deductions, but it cannot exceed the amount of $10,000.

Tax Laws can be confusing, especially this year as we experience the tax reform. That’s why you should trust Ingram, Wallis and Company with your taxes. Our team is educated on the tax reform bill and dedicated to taking care of you or your business. We aim is to minimize both your current and your future tax liabilities. If you have questions about our tax services for both individuals and business, call us at 979-776-2600.

Source: https://blog.taxact.com/2018-tax-return-tax-reform-changes/

As you prepare to file your taxes, the process can feel overwhelming. At Ingram, Wallis & Company, we want to help make your filing experience as simple and pain-free as possible, so we’ve created a list of most of the forms you need to gather before you file. Please note that every form and category may not apply to you. This is simply a guide to help you collect the correct information.

As you prepare to file your taxes, the process can feel overwhelming. At Ingram, Wallis & Company, we want to help make your filing experience as simple and pain-free as possible, so we’ve created a list of most of the forms you need to gather before you file. Please note that every form and category may not apply to you. This is simply a guide to help you collect the correct information.

Personal Information

First, find last years tax return so that you can quickly locate personal information for your spouse, dependents, or the previous year’s adjusted gross income. Then, be sure you have your social security number or tax ID numbers as well as your childcare record for dependents. You may need to provide your childcare providers tax ID number as well as the total number of fees paid to the provider.

Income

For traditional employment, you’ll need a W-2 for each full-time or part-time position you’ve held this year. If you were unemployed at some point, or are currently unemployed, you need a 1099-G form. This form will also be provided to you if you received a state refund during the previous tax year.

If you are self-employed, you will have a 1099-MISC form, a 1099-K form, and/or a Schedule K-1. Be sure to collect business expense records such as receipts and credit card statements. Check Form 1040-ES for your estimated tax payment records. If you work from home, know the square footage of your home office or locate payment receipts if you rent office space. You also need to know your business-use asset information for tracking deprecation

If you have rental property, you will need to submit current income and expense records and estimated tax payment records. Identify rental asset information for tracking deprecation.

Retirement

When filing your retirement information, you may need any combination of the following forms. Form 1099-R records any pension, IRA, or annuity income. You can also compile the amount of money you contributed to an IRA that was already taxed through a traditional IRA basis. If you have receipted social security benefits during the year, you need to file form SSA-1099. Those who work for the railroad will file form RRB-1099 to report payments received from the Railroad Retirement Board and form RRB-1099-R to indicate the pension payments received from the Board. You may also need to locate form 5498-SA, form 5498, form 5498-QA, and form 5498-ESA.

Savings and Investments

If you used funds from an HSA during the year, form 1099-SA will indicate the distributions you took. Form 1099-LTC reports any benefits you received from long-term care. You may also have forms 1099-INT, 1099-OID, and 1099-DIV.

Locate forms 1099-B or 1099-S to report your investments. Find your current record of expenses related to your investments as well as investment acquisition dates, cost records, and estimated tax payments to cover the tax bill on the income from your investment(s).

Deductions and Charitable Donations

You may need form 1098, real estate tax records, personal property tax records, medical expense records, and receipts on energy-saving home improvements to file for a tax deduction.

Locate a record of the donations that you made to a charitable organization over the year. You can also include the number of miles you drove while volunteering for a charity.

Education

Locate receipts for educational expenses such as tuition, books, and other supplies as well as records for scholarships or fellowships. You may also have form 1098-T and form 10989-E.

State and Local Taxes

Find the record of state or local income tax you paid during the year. You may also need a vehicle sales tax invoice. You may also need to determine the amount of sales tax you paid during the year. 

The IRS has noted that they will not issue refunds to those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit until the middle of February. When refunds are delayed, there is greater protection against tax-related identity theft. However, it’s never too soon to start compiling your information. Let this year of filing taxes be smooth and efficient by trusting Ingram, Wallis & Company with your taxes. Contact us today at 979-776-2600 to learn more about our tax services. 

At Ingram Wallis, we provide a number of top-notch services that can greatly aid you or your business in getting your finances in order. At the core of these services are our taxes, consulting, and accounting services provided by our world-class staff of Certified Public Accountants.

Although we offer several useful accounting services from general ledgers and booking to computerized payroll services, and consulting services ranging from software selection and implementation to financial and retirement decisions, we are ready to help our clients take a step further with our wide range of tax services. With tax season upon us, we strive to provide financial information to our clients in a timely and accurate manner. This commitment is comprised of maintaining meaningful, well-organized financial records that can set up your business for success.

At Ingram Wallis, we provide a number of top-notch services that can greatly aid you or your business in getting your finances in order. At the core of these services are our taxes, consulting, and accounting services provided by our world-class staff of Certified Public Accountants.

Although we offer several useful accounting services from general ledgers and booking to computerized payroll services, and consulting services ranging from software selection and implementation to financial and retirement decisions, we are ready to help our clients take a step further with our wide range of tax services. With tax season upon us, we strive to provide financial information to our clients in a timely and accurate manner. This commitment is comprised of maintaining meaningful, well-organized financial records that can set up your business for success.

We’d like to delve a bit more into these services to give you a better glimpse into how our firm could potentially help you and yours.

Tax Services: At Ingram Wallis, we prefer taking a proactive approach to conquering your taxes. We do our best to stay ahead of tax law trends and regulatory changes, which puts us in a position to cater our tax plans to each of our clients. We strive to identify planning opportunities that will minimize both your current and future tax liabilities. More than this, we strive to provide the constant insight and extensive expertise that our clients deserve throughout filing season and the year. Some of the services we offer include:

Tax Planning and Return Preparation

• We provide tax planning and return preparation for a variety of different types of clients including individuals, corporations, partnerships, LLCs/LLPs, non-profit organizations. Time and time again, we have used this winning combination of services to ensure our clients are prepared for the upcoming tax season and well cared for throughout it. Our CPAs keep regulations old and new in mind, developing creative strategies that take advantage of new laws and regulations for the benefit of you or your business.

Estate and Trust Tax Preparation Services

• Effective estate and gift planning facilitates the orderly transfer of assets to your beneficiaries, provides security for your surviving spouse, and can reduce or eliminate the tax due on the transfer of your business and other assets. For business owners, providing for business continuity and succession of ownership is essential. We can guide you through the complex process of getting your financial affairs in order.

Divorce and Support Issues

• In the unfortunate scenario that our clients should be facing a divorce, we can help this transition in terms of proper filing status, tax exemptions and credits, potential alimony, property transfers, and tax liability issues.

Taxing Authority Representation

• In the unlikelihood that our clients should need legal representation, we are prepared to ensure our clients are being properly represented before various federal and state tax agencies. Throughout our many years of experience, we have gained the competence necessary to effectively represent our clients.

Tax Effects of Buying and Selling a Business

• Before you decide to buy or sell your business, or enter into any substantive negotiations, be sure you have reviewed with a qualified tax advisor the myriad of tax considerations involved. Only after you have considered the transaction structuring options considering your particular business’ structure and financial situation, should you engage in meaningful negotiations with a buyer or as a seller. Our tax experts are here to help you every step of the way.

IRS Representation

• In our many years of experience, knowledge, and expertise in working with many taxing authorities, we have attained a level of competence that helps ensure our clients that they are in the best hands and are being properly represented before the various federal and state tax agencies.

Payroll Services

• If your business is or will predictably experience considerable growth, it is likely the size of your staff will as well. This results in increased payroll administration, an area that the professionals at Ingram Wallis can assist with. We can help implement the necessary controls to ensure a reliable and efficient payroll system. Additionally, we are here to help prepare any necessary payroll tax returns as well.

Sales Tax Services

• No matter what kind of sales tax vicinity our clients and their business’ are responsible for collecting and submitting, we can assist your company in gathering all necessary information and in the preparation of sales tax returns in a manner that is efficient and timely for you.

The Ingram Wallis Difference

Looking for a trustworthy partner dedicated to meeting your or your business’s specified accounting needs? At Ingram Wallis, we help our clients daily with a wide variety of issues, and help answer important questions like “Am I doing my taxes right?” or “Is my company being thorough in our auditing process?” While these questions are not a substitute for financial advice from a qualified professional, they can be used as a starting point in your decision-making process – a decision we hope ends with the beginning of a partnership with us. Our clients have come to trust our dedicated professionals because of the results they readily produce.

With over 40 years serving the BCS community Ingram Wallis is one of the most established CPA firms in the area. Thousands of business owners and individuals have trusted Ingram Wallis to help manage their accounting needs. Call Ingram Wallis today to start a conversation about your accounting needs.

The relationship between accountant and client isn’t based on money; it’s based on trust.  There’s an invaluable connection from “Who do you trust with your finances?” to “Who do you trust with your future?” or “Who do you trust with your family?” At Ingram Wallis, our day-to-day operations and actions revolve around this central idea of trust. It’s a foundation that drives us to remain client-centered; we value the trust our clients place in us and set out each day to return on their investment with insight, counsel, guidance, accuracy, innovative services, and an ever-evolving portfolio of products. Our expansive accounting and auditing services, which are founded upon trustworthy client relationships, has allowed our dedicated staff of Certified Public Accountants to achieve innovative, efficient, and profitable financial solutions for our clients.

The relationship between accountant and client isn’t based on money; it’s based on trust.  There’s an invaluable connection from “Who do you trust with your finances?” to “Who do you trust with your future?” or “Who do you trust with your family?” At Ingram Wallis, our day-to-day operations and actions revolve around this central idea of trust. It’s a foundation that drives us to remain client-centered; we value the trust our clients place in us and set out each day to return on their investment with insight, counsel, guidance, accuracy, innovative services, and an ever-evolving portfolio of products. Our expansive accounting and auditing services, which are founded upon trustworthy client relationships, has allowed our dedicated staff of Certified Public Accountants to achieve innovative, efficient, and profitable financial solutions for our clients.

Why is Trust So Important to Us?

Trust is the foundation of our practice – but why? At Ingram Wallis, we believe the basis of the relationship between the accountant and the client is trust. Of course, the concept of accounting itself is based on money – simply put, our job is to ensure our clients’ finances are aptly overseen. However, we believe that definition to be far too simplistic and dedicate ourselves to fostering fruitful relationships with our clients which can only be achieved through a foundation of trust. At Ingram Wallis, we take everything a step further, starting with our relationships. We believe these relationships are built on a few specific principles:

Every clients’ needs are different – As a leading firm in the region with over 40 years of combined experience, we have worked with a number of different clients. Doing so has led us to realize the importance of catering to each of our clients in order to best hone in on their needs. Because of these successful, unique relationships, we have come to recognize a variety of client needs and have developed an expansive portfolio to meet such needs. Our qualified CPA’s experience in collaborating with a wide variety of clientele has equipped them with skills to adapt to each new and unique client we take on. Check out our entire list of services and descriptions here.

No matter the client, our commitment is the same – At Ingram Wallis, we re-commit ourselves to our work every time we take on a new client. We guarantee the highest level of reliability – we do what we say we will. We maintain high-quality results and reliability because of our top-tier leadership, shareholders, and CPA’s. Our founders, Tom Wallis and James D. Ingram III have extensive experiences working first and foremost in accounting and auditing, but their experience is widespread. Under their leadership, our firm has accumulated an experienced staff committed and capable of gaining the trust and achieving success for our current and prospective clients. It is important for us to share this with our prospective partners, but we know our actions will speak much louder.

The Ingram Wallis Difference

Looking for a trustworthy partner dedicated to meeting your or your business’s specified accounting needs? At Ingram Wallis, we help our clients daily with a wide variety of issues, and help answer important questions like “Am I doing my taxes right?” or “Is my company being thorough in our auditing process?” While these questions are not a substitute for financial advice from a qualified professional, they can be used as a starting point in your decision-making process – a decision we hope ends with the beginning of a partnership with us. Our clients have come to trust our dedicated professionals because of the results they readily produce.

For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Ingram, Wallis & Co., our standards of integrity and responsiveness have earned our clients’ trust. 

Thank you for voting Ingram, Wallis, & Company, P.C. as the 2018 Readers’ Choice for “Best Tax Service” and “Best Accountant/Tax Professional.” After receiving this recognition in each individual category in previous years, we are extremely honored to receive recognition for both categories in the same year. We truly appreciate the support from all of our clients and friends who voted for us and look forward to being the trusted source for all of your accounting and tax needs in the years to come.

Thank you for voting Ingram, Wallis, & Company, P.C. as the 2018 Readers’ Choice for “Best Tax Service” and “Best Accountant/Tax Professional.” After receiving this recognition in each individual category in previous years, we are extremely honored to receive recognition for both categories in the same year. We truly appreciate the support from all of our clients and friends who voted for us and look forward to being the trusted source for all of your accounting and tax needs in the years to come.

We have served the B/CS area since 1979 by prioritizing our clients, our people and this community. We are passionate about the needs of our clients and dedicated to creating an environment of open communication, honesty, compassion and respect, as well as actively participating in the community. We accomplish this by selecting and retaining great people, serving great clients and focusing on great execution.

The relationship between an accountant and client isn’t based on money; it’s based on trust. Your trust is an investment not taken for granted at Ingram, Wallis & Company, P.C. Each day we strive to provide clients a return on their trust with insight, counsel, guidance, accuracy, innovative services and an ever-evolving portfolio of products.

The firm’s reputation for integrity and leadership is consistently recognized by professional and civic organizations in which our employees participate. Our employees have served in leadership positions in numerous local organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, St. Joseph Foundation, Leadership Brazos Alumni Association and the Bryan Viking Club.

Within the profession we are recognized as leaders locally and at the state level. Several of our officers have served as President of the local chapter of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. In addition, officers have chaired statewide committees of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, and have received awards for service to the profession.

Whether you are an individual navigating the complex tax laws, a business seeking to maximize profit potential or an organization requiring an audit, review or compilation, let Ingram, Wallis & Company, P.C. be your one-stop shop for all of your accounting needs.

Contact us at 979-776-2600.

The IRS has released the 2024-2025 special per diem rates. Taxpayers use the per diem rates to substantiate certain expenses incurred while traveling away from home. These special per diem rates include:

The IRS has released the 2024-2025 special per diem rates. Taxpayers use the per diem rates to substantiate certain expenses incurred while traveling away from home. These special per diem rates include:

1. the special transportation industry meal and incidental expenses (M&IE) rates,
2. the rate for the incidental expenses only deduction,
3. and the rates and list of high-cost localities for purposes of the high-low substantiation method.

Transportation Industry Special Per Diem Rates

The special M&IE rates for taxpayers in the transportation industry are:

• $80 for any locality of travel in the continental United States (CONUS), and
• $86 for any locality of travel outside the continental United States (OCONUS).

Incidental Expenses Only Rate

The rate is $5 per day for any CONUS or OCONUS travel for the incidental expenses only deduction.

High-Low Substantiation Method

For purposes of the high-low substantiation method, the 2024-2025 special per diem rates are:

• $319 for travel to any high-cost locality, and
• $225 for travel to any other locality within CONUS.

The amount treated as paid for meals is:

• $86 for travel to any high-cost locality, and
• $74 for travel to any other locality within CONUS.

Instead of the meal and incidental expenses only substantiation method, taxpayers may use:

• $86 for travel to any high-cost locality, and
• $74 for travel to any other locality within CONUS.

Taxpayers using the high-low method must comply with Rev. Proc. 2019-48, I.R.B. 2019-51, 1392. That procedure provides the rules for using a per diem rate to substantiate the amount of ordinary and necessary business expenses paid or incurred while traveling away from home.

Notice 2023-68, I.R.B. 2023-41 is superseded.

Notice 2024-68

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced it has recovered $172 million from 21,000 wealthy taxpayers who have not filed returns since 2017.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced it has recovered $172 million from 21,000 wealthy taxpayers who have not filed returns since 2017.

The Internal Revenue Service began pursuing 125,000 high-wealth, high-income taxpayers who have not filed taxes since 2017 in February 2024 based on Form W-2 and Form 1099 information showing these individuals received more than $400,000 in income but failed to file taxes.

"The IRS had not had the resources to pursue these wealthy non-filers," Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in prepared remarks for a speech in Austin, Texas. Now it does [with the supplemental funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act], and we’re making significant progress. … This is just the first milestone, and we look forward to more progress ahead.

This builds on a separate initiative that began in the fall of 2023 that targeted about 1,600 high-wealth, high-income individuals who failed to pay a recognized debt, with the agency reporting that nearly 80 percent of those with a delinquent tax debt have made a payment and leading to more than $1.1 billion recovered, including $100 million since July 2024.

By Gregory Twachtman, Washington News Editor

The Internal Revenue Service has made limited progress in developing a methodology that would help the agency meet the directive not to increase audit rates for those making less than $400,000 per year, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration reported.

National Taxpayer Advocate Erin Collins is working to address deficiencies highlighted by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration regarding the speed of service offered by the Taxpayer Advocate Service.

National Taxpayer Advocate Erin Collins is working to address deficiencies highlighted by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration regarding the speed of service offered by the Taxpayer Advocate Service.

Collins noted in a September 19, 2024, blog post that TAS, as highlighted by the TIGTA audit, is “not starting to work cases and we are not returning telephone calls as quickly as we would like.”

She noted that while overall satisfaction with TAS is high, Collins is hearing "more complaints than I would like of unreturned phone calls, delays in providing updates, and delays in resolving cases." She identified three core challenges in case advocacy:

• The increasing number of cases;

• An increase in new hires that need proper training before they can effectively assist taxpayers; and

• A case management system that is more than two decades old that causes inefficiencies and delays.

Collins noted that there has been an 18 percent increase in cases in fiscal year 2024 and advocates have inventories of more than 100 cases at a time. According to the blog post, in each of FY 2022 and 2023, there were about 220,000 cases. TAS is on track to receive nearly 260,000 in FY 2024.

"Our case advocates are doing their best to advocate for you," Collins wrote in the blog. "But when we experience a year like this in which case receipts have jumped by 18 percent, something must give. Since we don’t turn away taxpayers who are eligible for our assistance, the tradeoff is that we’re taking longer to assign new cases to be worked, longer to return telephone calls, and sometimes longer to resolve cases even after we’ve begun to work them."

Collins added that while the employment ranks continue to rise, about 30 percent of the case advocates "have less than one year of experience, and about 50 percent have less than two years of experience," meaning "nearly one-third of our case advocate workforce is still receiving training and working limited caseloads or have no caseloads yet, and half are likely to require extra support for complex cases."

She said TAS is revieing its training protocols, including focusing new hires on high volume cases so "they can begin to work those cases more quickly, while continuing to receive comprehensive training that will enable them to become effective all-around advocates over time."

TAS is also deploying a new case management system next year that will better integrate with the Internal Revenue Service’s electronic data offerings.

"My commitment is to continue to be transparent about our progress as we work toward becoming a more effective and responsive organization, and I ask for your understanding and patience as our case advocates work to resolve your issues with the IRS," Collins said.

By Gregory Twachtman, Washington News Editor

The IRS has highlighted important tax guidelines for taxpayers who are involved in making contributions and receiving distributions from online crowdfunding. The crowdfunding website or its payment processor may be required to report distributions of money raised, if the amount distributed meets certain reporting thresholds, by filing Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions, with the IRS.

The IRS has highlighted important tax guidelines for taxpayers who are involved in making contributions and receiving distributions from online crowdfunding. The crowdfunding website or its payment processor may be required to report distributions of money raised, if the amount distributed meets certain reporting thresholds, by filing Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions, with the IRS.

The reporting thresholds for a crowdfunding website or payment processor to file and furnish Form 1099-K are:

• Calendar years 2023 and prior – Form 1099-K is required if the total of all payments distributed to a person exceeded $20,000 and resulted from more than 200 transactions; and
• Calendar year 2024 – The IRS announced a plan for the threshold to be reduced to $5,000 as a phase-in for the lower threshold provided under the ARPA.

Alternatively, if non-taxable distributions are reported on Form 1099-K and the recipient does not report the transaction on their tax return, the IRS may contact the recipient for more information.

If crowdfunding contributions are made as a result of the contributor’s detached and disinterested generosity, and without the contributors receiving or expecting to receive anything in return, the amounts may be gifts and therefore may not be includible in the gross income of those for whom the campaign was organized. Additionally, contributions to crowdfunding campaigns by an employer to, or for the benefit of, an employee are generally includible in the employee’s gross income. If a crowdfunding organizer solicits contributions on behalf of others, distributions of the money raised to the organizer may not be includible in the organizer’s gross income if the organizer further distributes the money raised to those for whom the crowdfunding campaign was organized. More information is available to help taxpayers determine what their tax obligations are in connection with their Form 1099-K at Understanding Your Form 1099-K.

The IRS has significantly improved its online tools, using funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), to facilitate taxpayers in accessing clean energy tax credits. These modernized tools are designed to streamline processes, improve compliance, and mitigate fraud. A key development is the IRS Energy Credits Online (ECO) platform, a free, secure, and user-friendly service available to businesses of all sizes. It allows taxpayers to register, submit necessary information, and file for clean energy tax credits without requiring any specialized software. The platform also features validation checks and real-time monitoring to detect potential fraud and enhance customer service.

The IRS has significantly improved its online tools, using funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), to facilitate taxpayers in accessing clean energy tax credits. These modernized tools are designed to streamline processes, improve compliance, and mitigate fraud. A key development is the IRS Energy Credits Online (ECO) platform, a free, secure, and user-friendly service available to businesses of all sizes. It allows taxpayers to register, submit necessary information, and file for clean energy tax credits without requiring any specialized software. The platform also features validation checks and real-time monitoring to detect potential fraud and enhance customer service.

In November 2023, the IRS announced a significant enhancement to the ECO platform. Qualified manufacturers could submit clean vehicle identification numbers (VINs), while sellers and dealers were enabled to file time-of-sale reports completely online. Additionally, the platform facilitates advance payments to sellers and dealers within 72 hours of the clean vehicle credit transfer, significantly reducing processing time and enhancing the overall user experience.

In December 2023, the IRS expanded the ECO platform’s capabilities to accommodate qualifying businesses, tax-exempt organizations, and entities such as state, local, and tribal governments. These entities can now take advantage of elective payments or transfer their clean energy credits through the ECO system. This feature allows taxpayers who may not have sufficient tax liabilities to offset to still benefit from the available tax credits under the IRA and the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) Act.

The IRS’s move towards digital transformation also led to the creation of an online application portal for the Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credit and Wind and Solar Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit programs in partnership with the Department of Energy. The portal, which launched in June 2023, simplifies the submission and review processes for clean energy projects, lowering barriers for taxpayers to participate in these incentives.

These advancements reflect the IRS’s commitment to modernizing taxpayer services, focusing on efficiency, and enhancing the overall user experience. Looking ahead, the IRS is poised to continue leveraging technology to further improve processes and support taxpayers in utilizing clean energy tax incentives.

Final regulations on consistent basis reporting have been issued under Code Secs. 1014 and 6035.

Final regulations on consistent basis reporting have been issued under Code Secs. 1014 and 6035.

Consistent Basis Requirement

The general rule is that a taxpayer's initial basis in certain property acquired from a decedent cannot exceed the property's final value for estate tax purposes or, if no final value has been determined, the basis is the property's reported value for federal estate tax purposes. The consistent basis requirement applies until the entire property is sold, exchanged, or otherwise disposed of in a recognition transaction for income tax purposes or the property becomes includible in another gross estate.

"Final value" is defined as: (1) the value reported on the federal estate tax return once the period of limitations on assessment has expired without that value being adjusted by the IRS; (2) the value determined by the IRS once that value can no longer be contested by the estate; (3) the value determined in an agreement binding on all parties; or (4) the value determined by a court once the court’s determination is final.

Property subject to the consistent basis requirement is property the inclusion of which in the gross estate increases the federal estate tax payable by the decedent’s estate. Property excepted from this requirement is identified in Reg. §1.1014-10(c)(2). The zero-basis rule applicable to unreported property described in the proposed regulations was not adopted. The consistent basis requirement is clarified to apply only to "included property."

Required Information Returns and Statements

An executor of an estate who is required to file an estate tax return under Code Sec. 6018, which is filed after July 31, 2015, is subject to the reporting requirements of Code Sec. 6035. Executors who file estate tax returns to make a generation-skipping transfer tax exemption or allocation, a portability election, or a protective election to avoid a penalty are not subject to the reporting requirements. An executor is required to file Form 8971 (the Information Return) and all required Statements. In general, the Information Return and Statements are due to the IRS and beneficiaries on or before the earlier of 30 days after the due date of the estate tax return or the date that is 30 days after the date on which the estate tax return is filed with the IRS. If a beneficiary acquires property after the due date of the estate tax return, the Statement must be furnished to the beneficiary by January 31 of the year following the acquisition of that property. Also, by January 31, the executor must attach a copy of the Statement to a supplement to the Information Return. An executor has the option of furnishing a Statement before the acquisition of property by a beneficiary.

Executors have a duty to supplement the Information Return or Statements upon the receipt, discovery, or acquisition of information that causes the information to be incorrect or incomplete. Reg. §1.6035-1(d)(2) provides a nonexhaustive list of changes that require supplemental reporting. The duty to supplement applies until the later of a beneficiary's acquisition of the property or the determination of the final value of the property under Reg. §1.1014-10(b)(1). With the exception of property identified for limited reporting in Reg. §1.6035-1(f), the property subject to reporting is included property and property the basis of which is determined, wholly or partially, by reference to the basis of the included property.

Penalties

Penalties may be imposed under Reg. §301.6721-1(h)(2)(xii) for filing an incorrect Information Return, and Reg. §301.6722-1(e)(2)(xxxv) for filing incorrect Statements. In addition, an accuracy-related penalty can be imposed under Reg. §1.6662-9 on the portion of the underpayment of tax relating to property subject to the consistent basis requirement that is attributable to an inconsistent basis.

Applicability Dates

Reg. §1.1014-10 applies to property described in Reg. §1.1014-10(c)(1) that is acquired from a decedent or by reason of the death of a decedent if the decedent's estate tax return is filed after September 17, 2024. Reg. §1.6035-1 applies to executors of the estate of a decedent who are required to file a federal estate tax return under Code Sec. 6018 if that return is filed after September 17, 2024, and to trustees receiving certain property included in the gross estate of such a decedent. Reg. §1.6662-9 applies to property described in Reg. §1.1014-10(c)(1) that is reported on an estate tax return required under Code Sec. 6018 if that return is filed after September 17, 2024.