The Innovative CPA Group, LLC

10/22/2026

Gambling tax changes for 2026 could affect your next tax return. Whether you enjoy sports betting, casino visits, or the occasional lottery ticket, understanding the rules can help you prepare for tax season.

Read our latest article to learn what taxpayers need to know:
https://hubs.ly/Q04BYhWy0

10/16/2026

Recovering from a natural disaster comes with enough uncertainty. Understanding your tax relief options can help you take the next step.

Depending on the disaster declaration and your circumstances, relief may include postponed tax deadlines and deductions for eligible losses. Knowing what qualifies and what documentation to keep matters.

Read our latest article for an overview of disaster-related tax relief. If you or your business has been affected, contact our office for help reviewing your options.

https://hubs.li/Q04BnHC_0

When a natural disaster strikes, taxes may be the last thing on your mind. But understanding available tax relief can be an important part of the recovery process. Natural disasters can include hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, earthquakes, wildfires, severe storms, derechos, winter storms, landslides....

10/12/2026

Don’t let scammers come back to haunt you. 🔒

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month—a timely reminder that protecting your personal, financial, and tax information starts with everyday habits.

A few simple steps can help strengthen your online security:
• Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.
• Turn on multifactor authentication for an extra layer of protection.
• Keep your devices, apps, and security software updated.
• Pause before clicking unexpected links or opening attachments.
• Store tax records securely and back up important files.

Scammers often create a sense of urgency to get you to share sensitive information. If a request seems suspicious, verify it through a trusted contact method before taking action.
Explore CISA’s cybersecurity resources (https://hubs.li/Q04zKS7s0) for practical tools to help protect yourself, your family, and your business.

Stay alert this October—and keep these habits going all year.

10/08/2026

“No tax on tips” does not mean every tip is tax-free.

For tax years 2025–2028, eligible workers may deduct up to $25,000 per tax return in qualified tip income from their federal taxable income. Eligibility rules and income limits apply, and the deduction begins to phase out when modified adjusted gross income exceeds $150,000—or $300,000 for joint filers.

A few details worth knowing:
• Mandatory service charges are not considered qualified tips.
• Keeping accurate tip records matters when claiming the deduction.
• A separate deduction may apply to qualifying overtime pay — not all overtime earnings.

Our article breaks down the tips and overtime deductions, key limitations, and what to review before filing. We also have a free spreadsheet tracker to keep track of your tips throughout the year!

https://hubs.li/Q04zwG580

10/01/2026

A full project schedule doesn’t always mean a strong bottom line, or cash available when you need it.

Rising labor and material costs, change orders, and project delays can chip away at profitability. Meanwhile, delayed payments and retainage can leave cash tied up while payroll, suppliers, and subcontractors still need to be paid.

That’s why revenue alone doesn’t tell the full story.

Regularly reviewing job costs, project margins, billing, and collections can help construction owners spot issues earlier and understand both what they’re earning and when that money will be available.

At ICG, we help owners look beyond year-end numbers to make more informed decisions throughout the year.

10/01/2026

Business travel on the calendar? It may be time to review your reimbursement policy. ✈️

New IRS per diem rates take effect today, October 1, 2026, bringing updated reimbursement amounts and changes to designated high-cost locations. Understanding the updates can help your business keep travel policies and expense reporting on track.

Read our latest article to learn what’s changing and how to prepare: https://hubs.ly/Q04yNqLh0

09/28/2026

For manufacturers, reliable financial reporting helps support decisions well beyond year-end.

Pat Kovac works with many clients in the manufacturing industry, bringing an understanding of the challenges manufacturers face, from inventory and production costs to changing margins. He works with clients to provide clear, dependable financial reporting and insights they can use as their businesses grow.

We’re proud to highlight Pat once again, and the experience he brings to ICG’s manufacturing clients.

09/24/2026

If you were born in 1960 or later, your Full Retirement Age for Social Security is 67. But you can start benefits as early as 62 or delay them until 70

The age you choose can make a lasting difference in your monthly income. 📈

Our latest article explains what Full Retirement Age means, how claiming earlier or later affects your benefits, and what to consider as part of your retirement plan.

https://hubs.ly/Q04y8B7S0

09/17/2026

LLC or S corporation—which structure makes the most sense for your business?

While an LLC offers flexibility and fewer formalities, an S corporation election may provide tax-saving opportunities as profits grow. The right choice depends on several factors, including income, payroll costs, state taxes, ownership structure, and ongoing compliance requirements.

Our latest article breaks down the key differences, potential advantages, and important deadlines business owners should consider.

Read the full article to learn more and speak with your tax advisor before making an election.

https://hubs.li/Q04xH0qv0

09/15/2026

We’re proud to share that Lauren Shugrue, CPA, Founding Partner of The Innovative CPA Group, has been named to Forbes’ 2026 America’s Best-In-State CPAs list for Connecticut!

This national recognition reflects Lauren’s commitment to her clients, leadership within our firm and continued contributions to the accounting profession and broader community.

Please join us in congratulating Lauren on this well-deserved honor!

Learn more about Lauren and this recognition: https://hubs.li/Q04xz0pq0