Saturday, October 15, 2011

September 2011 Accounting Newsletter

3. KEEPING CALM IN A CRAZY MARKET
The Dow’s recent ups and downs are enough to cause even the most confident investor concern. And although it may be tempting to panic and pull out of the stock market entirely, it’s important to stay cool, calm and collected despite the market’s unpredictability. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15505

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4. HURRICANE IRENE TAX RELIEF
The IRS has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Connecticut, Vermont and Massachusetts that have been severely impacted by Hurricane Irene. http://www.njscpa.org/news/topics/irene

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5. FIVE SMART QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN STARTING A BUSINESS
Entrepreneurs launch roughly 600,000 new small businesses in the United States each year. If you dream of running your own shop, ask these questions to be sure you get off on the right foot. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15512

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6. FINANCIAL FRAUD AND THE ELDERLY
Financial fraud affecting the nation’s elderly population isn’t merely a story you see on the evening news. It’s a growing problem, and statistically, it could happen to you or someone you know. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15514

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7. RETIREMENT PLANNING OPTIONS FOR THE SELF-EMPLOYED
More than 9 million self-employed people are not covered by a retirement plan. The New Jersey Society of CPAs offers some perspective and explains some retirement savings options for the self-employed. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15511

August 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. HOW’S YOUR FINANCIAL HEALTH?
Many people forget to take stock of their financial situations during their busy schedules. But you should have an annual financial check up to be sure that you’re making smart money choices and staying on track to meet your short- and long-term financial goals. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15489

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2. FIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK IN YOUR FINANCIAL TUNE UP
Everyone knows that it’s important to get your oil changed regularly and keep your tires properly inflated, but have you thought about performing maintenance on your finances? http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15488

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3. PODCAST: MUTUAL FUND EXPENSES
Despite a surge of withdrawals during the height of past market uncertainties, mutual funds remain very popular investment options. However, it’s important to understand the costs associated with this type of investment, many of which may not be immediately apparent. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15498

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4. FINANCING A COLLEGE EDUCATION
It’s easy to postpone saving for college, but getting started now will help ease the sticker shock of tuition when the time comes. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15490

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5. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE OUT OF FINANCIAL OPTIONS
While the economy is showing faint signs of life, many people aren’t seeing a recovery in their personal finances. While filing bankruptcy may seem like the only option left, it may not be right for everyone. Know what’s right for you. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15493

July 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. SMART FINANCIAL STEPS FOR UNMARRIED COUPLES
U.S. Census Bureau figures show a recent increase in unmarried couples living together, possibly due in part to job loss or other consequences of an uncertain economy. No matter what brings them together, cohabiting couples have unique financial considerations.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15471

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2. PODCAST: TRAVEL INSURANCE
If you’re planning a get-away this summer, you'll want to hear the advice New Jersey Society of CPAs member Douglas Schwartz, CPA, has to offer on travel insurance. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15478

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3. UNDERSTANDING MUTUAL FUND EXPENSES
Despite a surge of withdrawals during the height of past market uncertainties, mutual funds still remain a popular investment option. If you are selecting a fund, it's important to understand the costs of investing, which may not always be immediately apparent.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15469

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4. CHILD OFF TO COLLEGE? A CHECKLIST FOR PACKING MONEY MANAGEMENT SKILLS
Among the books, computer, pens, towels and sheets your college-bound child takes to school, remember to tuck in money-management essentials, too. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15470

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5. PREPARE FOR HURRICANES, DISASTERS BY SAFEGUARDING TAX RECORDS
The 2011 hurricane season started June 1, and the Internal Revenue Service encourages individuals and businesses to safeguard themselves against natural disasters by taking a few simple steps.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15462

June 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. FOUR STEPS TO PAYING DOWN YOUR DEBT ONCE AND FOR ALL
The top financial New Year’s resolution for consumers in 2011 is decreasing debt. With the year nearly half over, how many people have kept that pledge? If your resolve is starting to fail, here are some tips for financially getting back on track. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15458

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2. POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE AND FINANCIAL PLANNING
While retirement may be the last thing on your mind as you flip that tassel on your mortarboard, it’s one of several things to think about to get started on the right financial foot. A little planning can help you make the most of your education and your financial future. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15457

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3. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MORTGAGE CLOSING COSTS
Closing on a home often involves signing a stack of confusing paperwork. So it’s no wonder that many people get closing-cost sticker shock. Take these steps to ensure that you understand closing costs and can minimize them wherever possible. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15459

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4. PODCAST: TARGET-DATE RETIREMENT FUNDS
Target-date retirement funds may be convenient and easy to select, but they still warrant careful consideration. New Jersey Society of CPAs member Paula Boyer Kennedy, CPA, discusses the ins and outs of this kind of investment. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15461

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5. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FINANCING A START-UP BUSINESS
It can be challenging to find financing for new businesses, but it’s not impossible. Knowing where to find funding is one key to launching your new business. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15460

May 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. BALANCING ACT: CREATING AND STICKING TO YOUR PERSONAL BUDGET
For the past few years, you’ve scrimped, saved and eaten at home instead of going out. But now, the economy is showing signs of life, and you’re ready to remove the chains of frugality. Can your budget handle it? http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15464

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2. HOW TO BE A STEALTH SAVER
Americans save a little more than five percent of their personal disposable income. It’s not surprising, then, that many people wonder at the end of each month where their money has gone. Don’t despair. There are many easy ways to boost your nest egg with little effort. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15465

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3. FILING A REAL ESTATE TAX APPEAL
Filing an appeal for a reduction in real estate taxes can be a daunting task if you are not familiar with the processes involved. Here are some tips on navigating the murky waters and taking the first steps. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15482

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4. UPCOMING FINANCIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
The New Jersey Society of CPAs is presenting a free webinar, The Investment Roller Coaster Ride - How to Structure Risk-Appropriate Investment Portfolios for Today's Market, on Wednesday, June 22 from 12 to 1pm. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/resources/event.cfm?eventid=96

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5. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR RETIREMENT RELOCATION
Once they stop working and no longer need to live in their current location for professional reasons, many retirees consider pulling up stakes and moving elsewhere. Keep these issues in mind if you’re considering relocating in your retirement. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15466

April 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. UPCOMING FINANCIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Jody Rorick, CPA, will present the free webinar, Talking Financials with Aging Relatives/Friends, on Thursday, April 28 from 1 to 2pm. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/resources/event.cfm?eventid=89
Taking Control: A Financial Workshop for Women will be presented in Roseland on Wednesday, May 4 from 11am to 2pm. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/resources/event.cfm?eventid=90

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2. WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR TAX REFUND
You've finally settled up with Uncle Sam and received a refund. So what should you do with the extra cash? Here are some suggestions. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=13907

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3. NJ GOVERNOR DECLARES APRIL FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH
The New Jersey Society of CPAs is undertaking a major effort to meet the needs of Garden State residents with information about managing their personal finances more effectively. To help support the initiative, Governor Chris Christie has proclaimed April 2011 as Financial Literacy Month.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15412

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4. THE IMPORTANCE OF YEAR-ROUND TAX PLANNING
You did it! You successfully submitted your tax return by this year's deadline. So, there’s no need to think about taxes for another year, right? In fact, there are many smart and easy steps you can take now that will potentially improve your financial situation today and at tax time next year.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15402

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5. TAX IMPLICATIONS OF BECOMING A LANDLORD
A new generation of landlords is emerging as investors snap up foreclosure properties at bargain prices and homeowners unable to pay their mortgages rent their homes as an alternative to foreclosure. While becoming a landlord may indeed offer solutions, there are tax implications that individuals may not be aware of. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=15406

March 2011 Accounting Newsletter

3. CONSIDERING A REFUND ANTICIPATION LOAN?
Tax season is in full swing, and many taxpayers are anxious to get their refunds as soon as possible. Some may even consider accelerating the process with a refund anticipation loan. Hear from a New Jersey Society of CPAs member on why these loans may not be the best option.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15349

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4. LAST-MINUTE TAX PREPARATION TIPS
In the final frantic hours before filing your 2010 taxes, don’t lose track of the deductions most taxpayers frequently miss. It could mean more money in your pocket. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15336

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5. TAX DEDUCTIONS FROM PLANET WEIRD
From January to April each year, CPAs are inundated with attempts to deduct all sorts of things — some legitimate, some not.
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15335

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6. THE LATEST ON THE AMT
Do you consider yourself "wealthy?" Most people do not. But just because you don't feel like a high earner doesn't mean you are immune to something that was originally created to ensure that the rich and powerful paid their fair share of taxes: the alternative minimum tax (AMT).
http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=15334

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7. TAX TIPS FOR LOWERING YOUR EDUCATION COSTS
The tax laws offer a number of opportunities to minimize your out-of-pocket education costs, if you know how to make the most of them. Here are some tips. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=15333

February 2011 Accounting Newsletter

1. FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILIES
One out of every 26 American families include at least one special needs child, and their financial planning is especially complex. In this month's podcast, Michael Steiner, CPA, CFP, sheds light on the details of a sound financial plan for these families. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15290

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2. SOCIAL SECURITY REDUCTION PUTS MORE MONEY IN YOUR POCKET AND REPRESENTS A SAVINGS OPPORTUNITY
You may have noticed a few extra dollars in your paycheck lately. While it is always possible your boss gave you a raise for your stellar performance, in reality, you can thank Uncle Sam. What will you do with this extra money in 2011? http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?sid=15283

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3. YOU’RE THE BOSS, NOW IT’S TIME TO PAY THE TAX MAN
Entrepreneurship offers many advantages to those who want the freedom to chart their own course, but starting a business also means learning about the many changes on the tax front before you take the plunge and head out on your own. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=15284

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4. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ESTATE TAXES
If you are, or will be, involved in estate planning for a loved one or yourself, it's important to know that high estate tax rates are back for this year and beyond. This article deciphers some estate tax complexities. http://www.moneymattersnj.com/story.cfm?SID=15285