Articles From Lumsden McCormick

In an increasingly competitive funding landscape, nonprofits are turning to AI tools to help craft grant proposals, but success still hinges on understanding the fundamentals of proposal writing. While AI can streamline the process, funders value authenticity, customization, and adherence to guidelines, making human oversight and strategic storytelling essential.

The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit (HTC) offers financial incentives for preserving historic buildings. It provides insights into the application process and potential challenges, helping to enhance the value of historic properties.

Choosing the right business entity is essential for tax efficiency and operational success. This guide compares five common structures, sole proprietorship, S corporation, partnership, LLC, and C corporation; highlighting how each is taxed and what compliance requirements they entail. Understanding these differences helps entrepreneurs align their entity choice with financial goals and growth plans.

A living trust, also known as a revocable trust, is a legal tool that allows individuals to manage and distribute their assets during their lifetime and after death, often avoiding probate and ensuring privacy. While it requires more setup than a will, it offers flexibility, control, and continuity, especially in cases of incapacity. Including a living trust in your estate plan can provide long-term peace of mind and smoother asset management.

Nonprofits facing financial pressure may find relief by revisiting their board-designated assets—unrestricted funds set aside for specific purposes. With proper policies and documentation, boards can reallocate these funds to address urgent needs, improve cash flow, or support strategic initiatives.

The One, Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act significantly updates IRS reporting rules by raising the threshold for issuing Forms 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC from $600 to $2,000 starting in 2026, with future adjustments for inflation. This change will reduce paperwork and compliance burdens for businesses, especially small ones, while still requiring accurate income reporting and recordkeeping.

Recent changes to federal estate tax laws, including the permanent increase of the exemption to $15 million under the OBBB Act, mean fewer families will face estate tax liability. As a result, estate planning strategies are shifting toward minimizing income taxes for heirs, especially by considering whether to gift or retain appreciating assets.

Nonprofits facing financial shortfalls may be able to use income from their endowments to stabilize operations, provided the funds are unrestricted and spending aligns with legal guidelines like UPMIFA. A prudent spending policy, typically 4% - 7% of a rolling average, should account for inflation and aim to preserve the endowment’s principal for long-term sustainability.

The changes to the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction introduced by the OBBB aim to provide greater tax benefits for small business owners and self-employed individuals, making it easier for them to reduce their taxable income and save on taxes.

A letter of instruction is a simple yet powerful way to bring clarity, comfort, and compassion to your estate plan. It bridges the gap between legal formality and personal intention, ensuring your voice is heard.