• Best Retirement Plans for Solo Entrepreneurs: 2024 Guide to Maximizing Savings with No Employees
    May 1 2024

    Are you a solo entrepreneur puzzled by the myriad of retirement planning options?


    Mike Jesowshek welcomes back Matt Ruttenberg to discuss retirement plan options for solo entrepreneurs without employees. They highlight various plans like IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, and solo 401(k)s, emphasizing the importance of starting with the desired savings amount to determine the most suitable plan. The episode covers the contribution limits, the benefits of each plan type, and the financial implications of choosing one plan over another, particularly in terms of tax deductions and maximizing retirement savings.


    Discover how choosing the right plan can maximize your savings and secure your financial future by tuning in!


    [00:00 - 05:48] Exploring Basic Retirement Plan Options, SEP IRAs, and Solo 401(k)s

    • Mike introduces the topic of retirement plans for solo entrepreneurs.
    • Matt discusses simple retirement options like individual IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs, highlighting their benefits and contribution limits.
    • He elaborates on the higher contribution limits of SEP IRAs and the advantages of solo 401(k)s, including their structure and potential for higher savings.


    [05:48 - 15:22] Comparison of SEP IRA and Solo 401(k) Contributions and Decision-Making in Retirement Planning

    • Matt and Mike share a detailed explanation of how contribution limits are calculated based on business type and income.
    • They discuss the extra benefits of solo 401(k)s, such as catch-up contributions for those over 50.
    • Choosing the right retirement plan based on the amount one wants to save simplifies the decision-making process.


    [15:22 - 20:05] Closing and Resource Mention



    Direct Quote:


    "So you might have a couple hundred dollars of fees, but you are netting a substantial amount more, going into that solo than you are with the SEP IRA." - Matt Ruttenberg



    Connect with Matt Ruttenberg!

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattruttenberg/


    ______

    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast


    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale


    -------


    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings



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    21 mins
  • Retirement Plan Tax Credits 2024: Essential Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know
    Apr 24 2024

    Are you a small business owner curious about the financial benefits of establishing a retirement plan for your company?


    In this episode, Mike Jeshowshek and guest Matt Ruttenberg discuss the substantial tax credits and key due dates associated with setting up retirement plans for small businesses, introduced by Secure 2.0. They delve into specific credits available, such as the startup credit and the auto-enrollment credit, and outline who qualifies for these benefits. Matt provides a detailed explanation of how businesses can maximize these credits, the importance of not missing due dates, and the strategic advantage of starting retirement plans early. They also emphasize the significant tax savings and benefits for small business owners and their employees.


    [00:00 - 05:51] Introduction and Overview of the Series


    [05:52 - 12:04] Discussing Tax Credits for Retirement Plans

    • Matt explains the startup and auto-enrollment credits under Secure 2.0.
    • He gives examples of how businesses can utilize these credits.


    [12:05 - 18:44] Qualification Criteria and Case Studies

    • Matt provided a detailed discussion on who qualifies for the tax credits and a case study illustrating potential savings.


    [18:45 - 22:24] Important Due Dates for Implementing Plans

    • Matt outlines critical due dates for various retirement plans.
    • What is the importance of early planning and meeting deadlines to maximize benefits?



    Direct Quote:


    "Don't wait until September 15th... It takes roughly 45 to 60 days to implement these plans... So let's start having these conversations and just start looking into it." - Matt Ruttenberg



    Connect with Matt Ruttenberg!

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattruttenberg/


    ______

    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast


    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale


    -------


    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings



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    23 mins
  • Listener Q&A with Mike Jesowshek CPA
    Apr 17 2024

    Have you ever wondered if you could hire your older child to watch your younger one and claim it as a business expense? Or are you maximizing the benefits of a Health Savings Account to its fullest potential?


    In this Q&A episode of the podcast, host Mike Jesowshek answers a series of listener-submitted questions covering a wide range of topics pertinent to small business owners, such as tax deductions, business expenses, payroll management, and tax strategies. Mike provides detailed insights on various scenarios, such as employing children, maximizing HSA contributions, and the proper way to handle business travel deductions. He also discusses the benefits of using payroll software for S Corporations and outlines strategies for setting reasonable salaries within an S Corporation framework. Additionally, the episode includes practical advice on managing business deductions for vehicle expenses and hiring offshore freelancers.



    [00:00 - 00:59] Introduction and Webinar Announcement


    [00:53 - 04:11] Hiring Family Members and Maximizing HSA Contributions

    • Mike discusses the non-deductibility of hiring children for childcare within most small business contexts.
    • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged tools, like "retirement plans on steroids."


    [04:11 - 09:42] Business Purchases, Tax Implications, and Renting Personal Equipment to Your Business

    • Mike breaks down the financial aspects of purchasing a business, focusing on asset depreciation and the treatment of seller financing.
    • Correctly account for personal equipment used for business to ensure tax efficiency.


    [09:42 - 15:31] Using Payroll Software for S Corporations and other Tax Topics

    • Using payroll software to streamline payroll processes can avoid common mistakes.
    • Providing comprehensive answers to specific questions helps clarify complex tax situations.


    [15:31 - 23:09] Benefits of Payroll Software for S Corps and Correct Payroll Handling

    • What are the repercussions of not managing payroll properly in a small business setting?
    • Effective payroll management prevents penalties and ensures financial stability.


    [23:09 - 25:44] Travel Deductions for Business Trips

    • Mike provides guidance on how to document and justify travel expenses as ordinary and necessary for business purposes.
    • Detailed documentation and understanding of IRS guidelines can make travel expenses deductible.


    [25:44 - 26:49] Closing Remarks and Additional Resources

    • Mike concludes with additional resources, a call for questions for future episodes, and a reminder of the upcoming webinar.



    Direct Quote:


    "Think of an HSA almost as a retirement plan on steroids." - Mike Jesowshek, CPA


    ______

    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast


    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale


    -------


    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings




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    27 mins
  • Strategic Business Structuring: Navigating Multiple Ventures and Partnership Success
    Apr 10 2024

    Have you ever wondered how to structure your multiple business ventures efficiently while minimizing your tax burden?


    Mike Jesowshek delves into the complexities of business structuring, particularly for individuals owning multiple businesses or in partnership. He emphasizes the utility of S Corporations in reducing self-employment taxes and the importance of establishing a parent S Corporation to streamline business operations, financial management, and tax filing. Mike advocates for separate bookkeeping for each entity, despite their consolidation under the parent S Corp, to maintain clarity in financial and legal aspects.


    [00:00 - 04:20] Introduction to Business Structuring and Exploring S Corporation Complexities

    • Mike Jesowshek discusses the importance of structuring for business owners with multiple ventures or partnerships.
    • He introduces the concept of S Corporations and their benefits.
    • Mike elaborates on the complexities and requirements of maintaining S Corporations, like payroll and tax filings.


    [04:20 - 07:03] Structuring for Operational Efficiency

    • The conversation shifts to operational structuring, emphasizing separate bookkeeping for legal and financial clarity.
    • Mike stresses the importance of having a singular parent S Corporation owning other businesses.


    [07:03 - 11:32] Tax Considerations and Partnership Structures

    • What are the tax implications and structuring options for partnerships?
    • Mike discusses different scenarios where S Corporations can benefit or complicate partnership arrangements.


    [11:32 - 20:09] Practical Tips and Conclusion

    • Mike shares his concluding thoughts on business structuring with a focus on legal consultation and tax efficiency.
    • He wraps up by encouraging listeners to plan their business structure mindfully and consult professionals.



    Direct Quotes:


    "When we talk about S Corporations, obviously the goal is to minimize self-employment taxes, but S Corps comes with some complexities as well." - Mike Jesowshek, CPA


    "We want to have one company that we're actively participating in running through with all of our income before touching us. And we want that company to be in most cases, an S corporation." - Mike Jesowshek, CPA


    ______

    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast


    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale


    -------


    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings




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    20 mins
  • Top 5 Secrets to Navigating Estimated Taxes for Small Business Owners
    Apr 3 2024

    Are you perplexed by estimated taxes and worried about potential penalties? Discover how to navigate the U.S. tax system's pay-as-you-go approach and strategically plan your payments to stay on top of your tax obligations!


    In this episode, Mike Jesowshek discusses the importance of understanding and paying estimated taxes in the U.S., emphasizing the "pay as you go" system. He explains the concept of estimated taxes, key due dates for each quarter, and the significance of making timely payments to avoid penalties and interest. Mike introduces the "safe harbor" rule, which helps taxpayers avoid penalties if they pay a certain percentage of their previous year's tax or their current year's expected tax liability.


    [00:00 - 01:21] Introduction to Estimated Taxes

    • Mike Jesowshek introduces the topic of estimated taxes, explaining the pay-as-you-go system and upcoming deadlines.


    [01:21 - 02:45] The Mechanics of Withholding

    • Mike discusses how withholding works for W-2 employees and the responsibilities of business owners for making tax payments.


    [02:45 - 04:32] Year-End Reconciliation and Tax Refunds

    • What is year-end tax reconciliation and what are the misconceptions about tax refunds?

    [04:32 - 06:28] Estimated Tax Due Dates and Payment

    • Mike clarifies the quarterly tax payment due dates and the reasoning behind them.


    [06:28 - 10:50] Safe Harbor Rule and Calculating Estimated Taxes

    • Mike talks about the safe harbor rule, how to calculate estimated taxes and the differences based on adjusted gross income.


    [10:50 - 17:06] Actual Method and Recap

    • What is the actual method for calculating estimated taxes and the importance of planning for fluctuating business income?



    Direct Quotes:


    "A refund doesn't mean you saved money on taxes; it's just saying you paid too much in taxes throughout the year." - Mike Jesowshek, CPA


    "Estimated taxes are the way that business owners can make payments against that future tax bill as they're earning money." - Mike Jesowshek, CPA


    ______

    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast

    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale

    -------

    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings




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    19 mins
  • Webinar Reminder: Slash Your 2024 Taxes: Essential Strategies for Small Business Owners
    Apr 1 2024

    We’re thrilled to invite you to our complimentary webinar, “Slash Your 2024 Taxes: Essential Strategies for Small Business Owners.” Join us for a session packed with valuable insights to minimize your tax bill.

    Topic: Slash Your 2024 Taxes: Essential Strategies for Small Business Owners
    Date: Wednesday April 24, 2024
    Time: 2pm EST
    Sign-Up: https://www.taxsavingspodcast.com/slashtaxes

    In this webinar, you’ll learn how to:

    • Maximize Deductions: Identify and claim all the deductions you’re entitled to.
    • Strategic Tax Planning: Structure your finances to optimize tax benefits.
    • Experience Top Tax Strategies: Learn about the incentives the IRS gives small business owners so you can implement them.
    • Interactive Q&A: Get answers from tax experts to your specific questions.

    This is a must-attend event for any business owner eager to keep more of their hard-earned money. Register now for free and ensure your spot in this transformative session!

    As always, our goal is to ensure you pay the least amount in taxes as legally possible!

    Sign-Up: https://www.taxsavingspodcast.com/slashtaxes

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    1 min
  • Unlocking Tax Deferral: Leveraging Opportunity Zones & Mastering 1031 Exchange Property Identification
    Mar 27 2024

    Are you maximizing the potential of your real estate investments through 1031 exchanges and Opportunity Zones?


    In this podcast, Mike Jesowshek and guest Michael Scherer delve into the intricacies of 1031 exchanges, focusing on various replacement property options, including Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) and Qualified Opportunity Zones. They discuss the advantages of passive investment through DSTs, the strategic importance of planning and consulting with tax advisors, and the potential tax deferral benefits of investing in Opportunity Zones. The conversation emphasizes the need for investors to align their investment choices with their financial goals and the importance of thorough planning.


    [00:00 - 04:37] Replacement Property Options and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) in 1031 Exchanges

    • Mike Jesowshek introduces the topic and welcomes back expert Michael Scherer to discuss 1031 exchange replacement properties and Opportunity Zones.
    • Michael explains the concept of Delaware Statutory Trusts as a passive investment option for 1031 exchanges.


    [04:38 - 06:17] Direct Real Estate Investment vs. Passive DST Investment

    • Michael compares the differences between active real estate investments and passive DST investments.
    • What are the investor involvement and management responsibilities in different types of investments?


    [06:18 - 12:59] Strategies for Maximizing Tax Deferral and Qualified Opportunity Zones as an Investment Avenue

    • Exploring methods for achieving full tax deferral by combining different investment strategies, like DSTs and direct property purchases.
    • Michael highlights the Importance of strategic planning and advisory collaboration.


    [12:59 - 19:06] Navigating the Complexity of 1031 Exchanges and Investment Options

    • How to approach 1031 exchanges, including the importance of selecting the right replacement properties?
    • Michael explains the concept of Qualified Opportunity Zones, their benefits, and the tax implications involved.
    • Opportunity Zones can serve as a fallback for failed 1031 exchanges or as a strategic choice for deferring taxes.


    [19:07 - 22:57] The Importance of Planning and Expert Advice

    • Michael emphasizes the value of expert advice and the need for early planning in the investment process.



    Direct Quotes:


    "Understanding the investor's goals and objectives and working with their tax advisor is critical." - Michael Scherer


    "It all comes down to planning and understanding what your objectives are." - Michael Scherer



    Connect with Michael!

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-scherer-caia-8147504/

    Email: levi.smith@rcxcapitalgroup.com


    ______


    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast

    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/

    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/

    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale

    -------

    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com

    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings



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    25 mins
  • 1031 Exchange Mastery: Skyrocket Your Real Estate Profits with Tax-Deferred Strategies
    Mar 20 2024

    Are you maximizing your real estate investment potential through tax-deferred strategies?


    Mike Jesowshek and Michael Scherer delve into the intricacies of 1031 exchanges. They explain its purpose, benefits, and the critical role of proper planning and advice from tax advisors. They emphasize the necessity of involving a qualified intermediary and the potential financial advantages, including tax deferral and strategic reinvestment, to maximize wealth building in real estate investment.


    [00:00 - 04:52] 1031 Exchanges and its Planning and Prerequisites

    • Mike Jesowshek introduces the topic and guest Michael Scherer from RCX Capital Group.
    • They discuss the significance of 1031 exchanges in real estate tax strategy.
    • Key aspects of initiating a 1031 exchange including the role of tax advisors and ownership structure, are discussed.


    [04:53 -12:22] 1031 Exchange Process, Timelines, and Exploring Replacement Property Options

    • Michael explains the strict timelines and procedural steps involved in a 1031 exchange and the importance of investing in like-kind properties for tax deferral.
    • He explores like-kind exchange requirements and potential replacement properties.


    [12:22 - 16:22] Liquidity and Investment Goals in 1031 Exchanges

    • How does the liquidity aspect of investments affect 1031 exchange decisions?
    • Investment goals and timelines should align with 1031 exchange strategies.


    [16:22 - 20:04] Final Steps and the Role of RCX Capital Group in 1031 Exchange

    • Michael gives an overview of the final steps in the 1031 exchange process, focusing on replacement property identification and closing within set deadlines.
    • He shares the importance of understanding and planning for the financial and legal intricacies of the exchange process.


    [20:05 - 24:23] Common Mistakes and Wrap-Up

    • Michael outlines common mistakes in 1031 exchanges, emphasizing the need for early planning and professional guidance.
    • Final thoughts on the importance of understanding 1031 exchanges as part of a comprehensive real estate investment strategy.



    Direct Quotes:


    "1031 exchange is an exceptional tool for wealth building, but something that you need to plan around." - Michael Scherer


    "Proper planning is essential. Talk through your options, understand your goals and objectives." - Michael Scherer


    "One of the most amazing wealth-building tools is section 1031." - Michael Scherer



    Connect with Michael!

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-scherer-caia-8147504/

    Email: levi.smith@rcxcapitalgroup.com


    ______


    Podcast Host: Mike Jesowshek, CPA - Founder and Host of Small Business Tax Savings Podcast


    Join TaxElm: https://taxelm.com/


    IncSight Packages (Full-Service): https://incsight.net/pricing/


    Book an Initial Consultation (IncSight): https://app.simplymeet.me/o/incsight/sale


    -------


    Podcast Website: https://www.TaxSavingsPodcast.com


    Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/taxsavings/


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaxSavings




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    25 mins