Articles From Lumsden McCormick

Lumsden McCormick presents a highlight summary of the significant cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) effective for 2025.

Spousal property rights, including the "elective share," are governed by state law and can significantly impact estate plans. Strategies such as transferring assets to a revocable trust may help mitigate the effect of these rights, but laws vary by state, making professional guidance essential for effective planning.

With potential budget challenges in 2025, nonprofits should evaluate program effectiveness to ensure resources are used efficiently. Gathering stakeholder feedback, using data-driven metrics, and reallocating funds to successful initiatives can help maximize impact and reduce waste. Regular program reviews can keep operations lean and responsive to evolving community needs.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act requires businesses to amortize rather than immediately deduct R&E expenses, resulting in higher tax bills and reduced cash flow for many manufacturers. To offset this impact, companies can leverage tools like the research tax credit, cost segregation studies for accelerated depreciation, and reclassification of certain expenses. Congress may revisit this issue in 2025, potentially restoring immediate expensing for R&E costs.

As a business owner, understanding which travel expenses are tax-deductible can significantly impact your bottom line. This guide covers the essentials of deducting travel costs, from transportation and lodging to meals and tips, ensuring you stay compliant and maximize your tax savings. Proper recordkeeping and knowledge of your tax home are crucial for claiming these deductions.

Long-term care insurance is a valuable tool for protecting your estate and finances from the potentially high costs of nursing homes or in-home care. Key considerations include your financial situation, estate planning goals, age, and health, with premiums typically rising as you age. Consulting with an advisor can help you assess the best LTC options to secure your future needs and preserve wealth for your family.

With December being a peak month for charitable giving, nonprofits should take advantage of holiday generosity by engaging donors through Giving Tuesday, personalized campaigns, and compelling data. Ensuring a seamless online donation process and maximizing matching gifts can further enhance contributions. Documenting successful strategies from this season will help refine future fundraising efforts.

A solo 401(k) is an excellent retirement savings option for self-employed individuals and small business owners with no employees, offering high contribution limits and tax savings. With flexible contributions and loan options, this plan allows for substantial, deductible retirement investments. However, solo 401(k)s require more administrative work, making them best suited for business owners with significant income and a commitment to maximizing retirement savings.

For business owners considering selling their companies, having a clear succession plan is crucial.

A buy-sell agreement is essential for business owners, ensuring an orderly transition of ownership in the event of death, disability, or other major changes. This agreement defines how a departing owner's interest is valued and purchased, often funded by life insurance, and provides flexibility to keep ownership within the family or provide liquidity for estate expenses. Regular reviews keep the agreement aligned with current business value and tax regulations, preserving the business's legacy for future generations.