The real estate market is in the midst of an extended slump throughout most of the country. That makes it more difficult for investors to buy or sell buildings and other property. To compound matters, a sale could result in significant tax consequences for real estate property that has appreciated in value since it was acquired. [continue]

What’s in a name? Plenty, especially if we are talking about the name of a fledgling company. As the marketplace in many industries becomes more crowded, it is important to choose a name that is readily identifiable and stands out from the pack. The proliferation of Internet-based companies only adds to the clutter. [continue]

The IRS figures the more, the merrier. That is why it has announced it is teaming up with more than half of the individual states to resolve employment tax issues and corral offenders. This collaborative effort is intended to provide a centralized and uniform methodology for improving employer compliance in this area. [continue]

Are your workers constantly “out sick” or arriving late? These issues can drive business managers batty. Even worse, employee absenteeism and tardiness may have a significant impact on productivity. [continue]

The new Economic Stimulus Act of 2008—signed by the President on February 13—is designed to spur spending. Of course, the main focus of the new law is the one-time rebates for individuals. But there is more to this new legislation than first meets the eye. [continue]

Investment Advisory Fees—In a significant new case, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the usual 2%-of-AGI (adjusted-gross-income) deduction floor for miscellaneous expenses applies to most investment advisory fees paid by a trust or estate. Facts: The trustee of an affluent family’s trust argued that the fees were fully deductible under a tax law exception. But the nation’s high court disagreed because the fees are miscellaneous expenses that are commonly incurred by individuals. [continue]