Responsive Tax & Accounting, LLC

09/25/2026

Wondering how Sec. 530A accounts (also known as Trump Accounts) may be invested? The IRS has issued proposed regulations clarifying the investment options allowed during the “growth period.” This period begins when the beneficiary’s initial account is established and ends on Dec. 31 of the year the child turns 17. During this time, eligible investments generally include mutual funds or exchange-traded funds that track an equity index of mainly U.S. companies, don’t use leverage, and have annual fees and expenses of no more than 0.1% of the fund’s balance. The proposed regulations would apply to tax years starting on or after Jan. 1, 2026. Call us at (480) 553-8991 with questions.

09/23/2026

09/23/2026

The IRS is more likely to audit certain types of businesses, such as those that are primarily cash-based. Although you probably can’t change the nature of your transactions, you can control the accuracy of your tax returns. Minimize errors by maintaining meticulous documentation. Generally, you should keep tax records for at least three years — the normal statute of limitations for an IRS adjustment. And don’t try to go it alone: Call us at (480) 553-8991 for help reducing the likelihood of attracting IRS scrutiny, as well as for support if your tax return is ever questioned.

09/22/2026

The 40% generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax generally applies to transfers made to people two generations or more below you, like your grandchildren. And it applies on top of any gift or estate tax due. The good news is that a large GST tax exemption is available: $15 million for 2026. So most taxpayers don’t need to worry about the GST tax. But if you have a large estate, you can allocate your GST tax exemption to contributions to a dynasty trust and allow assets to skip several generations of taxation. Contact us at (480) 553-8991 to learn more.

09/21/2026

If you’re age 50 or older, a great way to enhance your retirement nest egg is to make “catch-up” contributions to your 401(k), 403(b), 457 plan, SIMPLE or IRA. And workers age 60 to 63 can potentially boost their 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan up to 150% of the regular catch-up limit. For 2026, this means an extra contribution of $11,250 ($5,250 for SIMPLEs). Want to make the most of tax-advantaged savings opportunities? Contact us at (480) 553-8991.

09/18/2026

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is making permanent the suspension of the beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting requirements for U.S. companies and U.S. persons. If these Corporate Transparency Act requirements had gone into effect, millions of U.S. businesses would have faced the administrative burden of an initial BOI filing and subsequent updates for any BOI changes. FinCEN will also delete previously reported information it believes belongs to U.S. persons (such as information linked to U.S. driver’s licenses and U.S. passports). Foreign entities that are reporting companies must still report BOI for foreign individuals. Call us at (480) 553-8991 if you have questions.

09/16/2026

Donating artwork, antiques, collectibles or other tangible personal property that has appreciated in value can produce very different tax results depending on the charity’s use of the item. If the use directly supports the organization’s mission — such as an antique donated to a museum for its collection — you may be able to deduct fair market value. But if the item will be used for another purpose, such as being sold at a fundraising auction, your deduction may be limited to what you originally paid for it. Contact us at (480) 553-8991 before making a donation to discuss your potential deduction and the applicable substantiation requirements.

09/15/2026

Many small business owners find the concept of risk management intimidating. But essentially, it’s about identifying potential disruptions and making practical plans to guard against them. From cash flow slowdowns to staffing shortages, every business faces uncertainty. The key is being prepared, not overwhelmed. Call us at (480) 553-8991 for help reviewing your current risks, spotting emerging challenges, and making informed decisions that support long-term stability and growth.

09/14/2026

Selling investments at a loss generally reduces taxes, but the wash sale rule can get in the way. If you buy the same or a “substantially identical” investment within 30 days before or after the sale, the loss may be disallowed. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid triggering the wash sale rule and still achieve your goals. Contact us at (480) 553-8991 to discuss balancing tax considerations with investment objectives.

09/11/2026

Beginning in 2026, employers can claim a tax credit for a portion of premiums for paid family and medical leave (PFML) insurance policies, instead of for a portion of actual wages paid during employees’ PFML. Employers can choose to claim the credit for a percentage of qualifying insurance premiums paid or incurred during the tax year for active PFML coverage. The IRS has issued guidance (Notice 2026-28) that helps employers apply the premium-based method. It addresses how the premium-based method compares to the wage-based method, how to allocate the qualifying premiums, and how to elect between the premium method and the wage method. Contact us at (480) 553-8991 to learn more about tax breaks for PFML.