INSIGHTS

Thoughtful
thoughts from
the thinkers at
Larson Gross.

From Bookkeeping to Business Insight

Modern CAAS is transforming accounting from historical reporting into real-time insight and strategic advisory. Learn how Larson Gross helps businesses improve visibility, standardize processes, and make smarter decisions.

Turning RMDs Into a Strategic Advantage

Required Minimum Distributions often feel like a penalty for saving well, but they don't have to drain thousands in avoidable taxes. With strategic planning, especially in the years before RMDs begin, retirees can reduce future tax exposure, avoid Medicare surcharges, and maintain more control over their income. The key is moving beyond simple compliance and treating RMDs as part of a coordinated, long-term strategy.

Making Hiring Work for Small Businesses

Hiring looks different today than it did even a few years ago - and for small business owners, the result is often the same: inboxes flooded with resumes, scattered candidate folders, and great applicants slipping through the cracks. The right hiring software doesn't make the process impersonal or complicated; it gives you back control so you can focus on finding the right fit.

Which retirement plan is best for a self-employed owner: SEP, SIMPLE, or Solo 401(k)?

A practical guide to using a SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, or solo 401(k) strategically, covering contribution limits, deadlines, employee rules, tax planning, and when each plan makes the most sense.

WA Millionaires Tax: What Changes Now

Washington has just enacted a new tax on certain high-income individuals, marking a significant change to the state’s tax structure. The law applies to income above $1 million and is scheduled to take effect beginning in tax year 2028, with first filings due in 2029.

Nonprofit Board Governance Best Practices

Strong nonprofit board governance goes beyond financial oversight to drive strategy, sustainability, and mission impact. Learn best practices for nonprofit boards, including how to improve financial visibility, assess risk, and align budgets with long-term organizational goals.

Payroll Tax Refund Opportunities After M&A and Reorganization

Organizations that have undergone mergers, acquisitions, or internal restructurings may have an overlooked opportunity to recover overpaid payroll taxes. When employees move between entities mid-year, wage limits for taxes like FICA and FUTA can unintentionally reset, leading to duplicate tax payments. By applying successor employer rules and reviewing payroll data—particularly for transactions within the past three years—businesses may be eligible to file amended returns and claim refunds. A proactive review can improve cash flow, ensure compliance, and strengthen payroll processes going forward.

Why estate taxes aren’t the only inheritance-related costs to consider

Estate planning discussions often focus on the federal estate tax exemption, but most families face different challenges when transferring wealth. Probate fees, state-level taxes, capital gains exposure, and administrative complexity can all erode inheritances - even for estates well below the federal threshold. A comprehensive estate plan addresses these hidden costs, not just headline tax numbers.

A Critical Turning Point for Importers: The Path Forward on IEEPA Tariff Refunds

A Supreme Court ruling has opened the door for U.S. importers to recover billions in tariffs imposed under IEEPA and later deemed unlawful. The Court of International Trade has directed Customs to recalculate affected entries, potentially triggering widespread refunds. Importers should act now by auditing past entries, tracking liquidation status, and preparing protests where necessary. While procedural uncertainty remains, proactive documentation and timely action are critical to securing potential refunds.

Lets Have Better Meetings

Executives spend nearly 23 hours a week in meetings, yet many fail to create clarity or momentum. This article reframes meetings as the place where real work gets done — when designed with purpose. By questioning necessity, focusing on decisions, encouraging engagement, and clarifying next steps, teams can turn meetings from time drains into drivers of meaningful progress.

Don’t Leave Charitable Deductions on the Table

High-earning families often give generously throughout the year, but poor documentation and incomplete tracking leave thousands in tax deductions unclaimed. From non-cash donations to appreciated securities, each type of gift has specific IRS requirements that must be met to maximize benefits and avoid audit risk. By building a simple tracking system and understanding the rules, you can ensure your generosity works as efficiently as possible.

Protecting Your Family’s Finances in an Economic Downturn

When the economy feels uncertain, families worry about job security and rising costs, but financial downturns don't require panic - they call for clarity and preparation. By focusing on building liquidity, reviewing spending priorities, ensuring proper insurance coverage, and avoiding fear-based decisions, you can create stability during volatile times.

Supreme Court Tariff Ruling

In a major ruling with immediate implications for North American trade, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump’s sweeping tariff program that had been imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

Understanding the IRS’s new deduction for qualified overtime compensation

The IRS has introduced a new federal income tax deduction for qualified overtime compensation, effective for tax years 2025 through 2028. Eligible workers can deduct up to $12,500 (or $25,000 on joint returns) of the overtime premium they earn above their regular rate of pay. This deduction reduces is available to FLSA-covered employees who meet specific eligibility requirements, including valid Social Security numbers and certain filing status conditions.

Can You be Freed From a Spouse’s Tax Debt?

Innocent spouse relief can protect you from being held responsible for a tax bill caused by your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s mistakes. This article explains how the IRS evaluates these claims, the types of relief available, and what to expect if you apply. If you’ve received a notice or suspect something was wrong with past returns, it may be time to talk to a CPA.

SECURE 2.0 Mandatory Roth Catch-Up Rules: What Employers and High Earners Need to Know for 2026

Starting in 2026, high earners (age 50+, earning $150K+) must make Roth catch-up contributions—no more pre-tax option. Employers will need to identify affected employees, update payroll systems, and ensure plans are Roth-ready. Compliance starts Jan. 1, 2026, with stricter enforcement in 2027. Early prep = fewer errors and smoother transitions. Now’s the time to coordinate, communicate, and plan ahead.
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