Patricia Spivak CPA PC

07/17/2026

Home renovations can improve a residence’s comfort, functionality, aesthetics and resale value. They might also provide tax benefits. You may be able to deduct mortgage interest on debt used to substantially improve your home. Certain improvements can also increase your tax basis, potentially reducing taxable gain when you sell. Medically necessary modifications may qualify as deductible medical expenses, subject to limits. And if you overlooked claiming now-expired credits for qualifying energy-efficient home improvements you made in 2025, an amended return may be worth considering. Call us at (570) 788-6292 to talk taxes before or after a home renovation.

07/15/2026

Many tax law changes went into effect this year. So it’s important to evaluate where your business stands — and where it’s headed — before year end. Tax planning opportunities may still be available, but they’ll become more limited as the calendar winds down. Whether you’re considering equipment purchases, compensation strategies, retirement plan contributions or other tax-saving moves, now is the time to look ahead and review your options.

07/14/2026

You’ll probably owe tax on your retirement income — how much depends on factors such as the types of retirement accounts you own and your other income sources. In general, retirees should withdraw funds from any taxable accounts first, tax-deferred accounts second and tax-free accounts last. But different withdrawal strategies may benefit you. The important thing is to start planning before you retire.

07/13/2026

Business owners: Are you or your employees planning to go “back to school” soon? Two types of work-related education costs may qualify for business tax breaks: 1) those required to retain an existing job, license or professional status, and 2) those directly tied to maintaining or improving skills for a current trade or business. Deductible expenses can include tuition, books, supplies and possibly travel if the primary purpose of the trip is business-related education. However, you can’t deduct costs for education that help meet the minimum qualifications for a position or to qualify for a new trade or business.

07/10/2026

If you’re getting married, or were recently married, congratulations! Taxes are likely the furthest from your mind, but there are a few tax-related chores you need to consider. For example, next year, for 2026, you’ll be filing your first tax return as a married person. That could affect the amount of tax you should have withheld from your paycheck. Use the IRS Withholding Estimator to check. Then provide your employer with a new Form W-4. If your last name has changed, notify the Social Security Administration, which will inform the IRS. You and your new spouse should also review financial accounts, insurance coverage, estate plans and tax strategies. We can help. Contact us at (570) 788-6292.

07/08/2026

Do you know the difference between IRS liens and levies? A federal tax lien arises when you fail to pay taxes after receiving an IRS bill or notice. It’s a legal claim against your property, including real estate and other assets, which can affect your ability to secure credit or complete financial transactions. A levy may be the next step if your debt remains unresolved. The IRS can seize assets — such as wages or bank funds — to satisfy the debt. In short, a lien protects the IRS’s interest, while a levy enforces collection. If you receive collection notices, don’t ignore them! Acting quickly can help open the door to resolution options.

Take a look at our Home page. Patricia Spivak CPA PC is a full service tax, accounting and business consulting firm located in Drums, PA.

07/07/2026

Tax returns and financial statements are important. But you know we can do so much more, right? Think of us as your year-round, human source of practical guidance. We can help you better understand the ups and downs of your cash flow, spot opportunities to cut costs or improve profitability, and plan for growth with greater confidence. C

07/06/2026

You probably have retirement questions: How much should I save before I quit working? When should I start taking Social Security benefits? Can I retire before Medicare coverage kicks in? What about taxes in retirement? We can provide you with answers based on your individual financial circumstances and retirement goals.

07/03/2026

The ultimate success of a business often comes back to decisions made at its inception. If you’re planning to start a business, one key decision is choosing its structure, commonly sole proprietorship, C corporation, S corporation, partnership or limited liability company. In addition to owner liability variations, all have different tax requirements that can affect everything from hiring to cash flow to owner income. Another critical decision is choosing a tax year — either a calendar year or a fiscal year (12 consecutive months ending on the last day of any month except December). Call us at (570) 788-6292. We can help you make the best decisions for your current situation and your business’s future.

07/01/2026

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.