Articles From Lumsden McCormick

OBBB has made the Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) program permanent and introduced enhanced tax incentives for manufacturers building in rural QOZs, including the creation of Qualified Rural Opportunity Funds (QROFs) that offer a 30% basis step-up after five years. These changes make rural QOZs especially attractive for manufacturers seeking funding and long-term tax savings, with additional advantages such as a lower improvement threshold and extended capital gains exclusions.

Accrual-basis businesses can reduce their 2025 tax liability by recognizing expenses incurred this year, even if payment occurs in 2026 including wages, taxes, and utilities. Reviewing prepaid expenses, writing off uncollectible receivables, and properly timing income and deductions are key strategies for year-end tax planning.

A residuary clause in a will ensures that any assets not specifically mentioned—such as forgotten accounts or newly acquired property—are distributed according to your wishes. Without it, those assets may be subject to state intestacy laws, potentially leading to legal complications and family disputes. Including this clause adds flexibility and peace of mind by safeguarding your estate against future uncertainties.

As 2025 winds down, now is the time to review your business expenses and lock in potential tax savings. This article breaks down what’s still deductible under the latest tax laws, including updates from the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and the TCJA, and offers practical tips to help you plan ahead for 2026.

Nonprofit boards typically follow one of three models: policy, working, or hybrid. Policy boards focus on governance and strategic oversight, working boards handle hands-on tasks for early-stage organizations, and hybrid boards combine both approaches for flexibility during growth or transitions. Choosing the right structure ensures effective leadership and alignment with your nonprofit’s mission.

QIP offers businesses a way to accelerate deductions on nonresidential building improvements through bonus depreciation and Section 179 expensing. Recent legislation under the OBBB permanently reinstates 100% bonus depreciation for qualifying assets placed in service after January 19, 2025, while also increasing Section 179 limits. Strategic planning is essential to balance immediate tax benefits against potential future implications like depreciation recapture and excess business loss rules.

A financial power of attorney ensures someone you trust can manage your finances if you become incapacitated, avoiding costly court proceedings. You can choose between a springing POA, which activates under specific conditions, or a durable POA, which takes effect immediately and allows for quicker action in emergencies. Pairing it with a health care POA and updating both regularly helps protect your wishes and your family’s peace of mind.

For nonprofit organizations, matching gifts represent a powerful opportunity to boost fundraising and hit ambitious goals. Here’s how to make the most of it.

The OBBBA creates new Code Section 174A, which allows taxpayers to fully deduct domestic research costs in the year paid or incurred (the 174A deduction method), effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2024. Taxpayers also have the option of electing to capitalize domestic research costs and amortize the amounts beginning with the month in which the taxpayer first realizes benefits from the expenses, with a 60-month minimum (the 174A amortization method). 

Charitable donations can provide tax benefits, but only if they meet strict IRS substantiation requirements. Cash and noncash gifts require specific documentation, and higher-value contributions may involve additional forms or appraisals. Starting in 2026, new rules under the OBBB introduce a universal deduction, making strategic planning essential.