Tax Planning Archives - MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services https://www.mgocpa.com/perspectives/topic/tax-planning/ Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services Fri, 19 Sep 2025 17:42:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.mgocpa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/MGO-and-You.svg Tax Planning Archives - MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services https://www.mgocpa.com/perspectives/topic/tax-planning/ 32 32 How to Align Your Global Supply Chain and International Tax Strategy https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/align-international-tax-supply-chain/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=align-international-tax-supply-chain Mon, 15 Sep 2025 14:32:42 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5573 Key Takeaways: — In today’s dynamic global business environment, aligning your organization’s international tax planning with supply chain planning strategy isn’t just a best practice — it’s essential. From shifting trade relationships and tariffs to increased scrutiny from global tax authorities, your company’s ability to make tax-informed supply chain decisions can directly impact cash flow, […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • Aligning international tax strategy with global supply chain planning helps reduce tax exposure, capture incentives, and increase operational agility.
  • Ignoring exit taxes, transfer pricing, or cross-border compliance risks can create multi-year tax liabilities, penalties, and restructuring costs.
  • Involving tax leaders early in global supply chain restructuring leads to smarter decisions, improved timelines, and long-term business scalability.

In today’s dynamic global business environment, aligning your organization’s international tax planning with supply chain planning strategy isn’t just a best practice — it’s essential. From shifting trade relationships and tariffs to increased scrutiny from global tax authorities, your company’s ability to make tax-informed supply chain decisions can directly impact cash flow, risk profile, and competitive positioning.

Here’s how your tax and operations leaders can collaborate to build a globally agile structure, and why international tax strategy must be at the core.

Why International Tax Strategy Must Drive Global Supply Chain Decisions

Mid-market organizations are rethinking their operational footprint — reshoring, nearshoring, or diversifying supplier bases. But without a clear international tax lens, these shifts can trigger unintended consequences: exit taxes, loss of treaty benefits, or transfer pricing risks.

A tax-aligned supply chain strategy allows you to:

  • Forecast and manage global tax liabilities
  • Capture incentives and avoid inefficiencies
  • Make faster, more informed decisions across jurisdictions

Integrate International Tax Early in the Planning Process

Waiting until after operations moves are underway can leave your business with a fragmented tax structure that requires costly remediation. This is especially critical for mid-market companies operating across the U.S., EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa), or APAC (Asia-Pacific) regions, where cross-border structuring can create unexpected tax burdens. Tax should be involved from the outset — modeling scenarios across jurisdictions, projecting costs, and identifying risk exposure.

For example:

  • Moving production from China to Mexico might avoid certain tariffs — but could expose your business to exit taxes in China or permanent establishment risk in Mexico.
  • Relocating intellectual property (IP) from Ireland to the U.S. might trigger a deemed disposal event under local exit tax regimes.

Technology platforms and predictive models can help tax teams simulate these impacts before major decisions are finalized.

Graphic showing how tax supports global supply chain decisions, including exit tax planning and transfer pricing alignment

Strengthening Transfer Pricing and Global Compliance

Global tax authorities are tightening enforcement — especially around transfer pricing and cross-border restructurings. If your tax structure no longer reflects your actual operations, you may face:

  • Double taxation
  • Disallowed deductions
  • Penalties and disputes

Update your transfer pricing documentation to reflect the new supply chain model. Intercompany agreements, economic analyses (including IP valuation), and jurisdictional reporting must all align with your post-transition structure.

Unlock Incentives Through Coordinated Strategy

Supply chain shifts aren’t just about avoiding risk — they’re also an opportunity to capture new value. Jurisdictions including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and certain European Union countries offer targeted tax incentives for reshoring, green investment, R&D, or job creation.

If these incentives aren’t launched early in planning, your business could miss out. Tax should coordinate with operations and finance teams to explore:

  • U.S. federal and state credits for manufacturing investment
  • Foreign tax credits or deferrals available in new jurisdictions

Create a Globally Scalable Tax Playbook

Reactive tax planning doesn’t scale. As your organization enters new markets, integrates M&A targets, or adds new suppliers, your international tax model must be flexible and supported by a clear global tax governance framework.

A forward-looking playbook helps you:

  • Align tax structure with business decisions
  • Build global tax governance into location changes, IP moves, and new legal entities
  • Reduce friction during rapid growth or operational transformation

The Path Forward: Strategy, Agility, and Risk Reduction

International supply chain restructuring can unlock efficiency, improve margins, and reduce geopolitical exposure — but only if tax is at the table from the start.

Organizations that treat tax as a strategic partner rather than a compliance function are better positioned to navigate volatility and create long-term value.

How MGO Can Help

At MGO, we help companies navigate the complexities of global tax strategies and cross-border operations. From international structuring and transfer pricing to tax technology and incentive optimization, we serve clients across manufacturing, life sciences, technology, and more.

We work closely with CFOs and tax executives to align tax planning with business transformation — supporting global agility, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth. Let’s talk about how your international tax strategy can support your global operations.

The post How to Align Your Global Supply Chain and International Tax Strategy appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

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Trust Structures to Protect Your Family Wealth and Empower the Next Generation https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/trust-structures-protect-family-wealth/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=trust-structures-protect-family-wealth Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:51:14 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5518 Key Takeaways: — According to a survey from LegalShield, nearly 60% of U.S. adults don’t have a will — even though 90% acknowledge they need one. Even among those with estate planning documents in place, 22% have never updated them. They may have missing or incorrect beneficiaries or improperly titled assets, diminishing the legal protection […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • Many estate plans are outdated, improperly executed, or non-existent.
  • Trusts can protect family assets and support responsible inheritance.
  • Open communication with heirs about roles and expectations can reduce future conflicts and confusion.

According to a survey from LegalShield, nearly 60% of U.S. adults don’t have a will — even though 90% acknowledge they need one. Even among those with estate planning documents in place, 22% have never updated them. They may have missing or incorrect beneficiaries or improperly titled assets, diminishing the legal protection those documents were designed to protect from probate.

These numbers tell us that a significant number of families are unprepared to transfer wealth effectively or protect it for future generations. Many beneficiaries also mistakenly believe that what they inherit will be taxed as income — a common misconception that can add unnecessary confusion to the process.

For families looking to preserve wealth while empowering heirs to manage their inheritance responsibly, trusts can offer long-term benefits when implemented with care and updated regularly. In this article, we’ll examine several potential trust structures and provide guidance to help your family achieve its wealth preservation goals.

Why Trusts Matter for Generational Wealth

A well-structured trust can:

  • Safeguard assets from creditors, lawsuits, and potential divorces
  • Provide a framework for responsible access to funds
  • Support heirs with varying levels of financial maturity
  • Maintain family intentions across multiple generations
  • Reduce the administrative burden on surviving family members

But the real value lies in thoughtful design and consistent maintenance. Setting up a trust isn’t a one-time activity; you must revisit and update it periodically to reflect changes in your growing family, financial circumstances, and state laws.

Here are a few different trust structures that can help you achieve your goals:

Dynasty Trusts

A dynasty trust can last multiple generations — potentially hundreds of years in some cases. These trusts keep inherited assets outside of each heir’s taxable estate, reducing exposure to estate taxes over time. They can also be structured to distribute income or principal according to specific rules, helping beneficiaries avoid overspending or becoming financially dependent on the trust.

These trusts help preserve the value of large estates across generations by shielding inherited assets from estate taxes, creditors, or future divorces. They also allow grantors to express family values through distribution requirements — like completing college or maintaining employment.

Because a dynasty trust can span decades, it’s crucial to choose a trustee (or succession of trustees) with clear oversight protocols.

Spendthrift Trusts

For families concerned about a beneficiary’s spending habits or personal stability, a spendthrift trust adds another layer of protection. These trusts restrict a beneficiary’s ability to access or assign their interest in the trust to others, preventing them from squandering the funds or using them as collateral for personal loans.

Spendthrift provisions can stand alone or be added to a broader irrevocable trust. They are especially helpful when a beneficiary struggles with addiction, financial discipline, or legal troubles.

This type of trust requires a trustee who can exercise discretion over distributions, so it’s usually best handled by a neutral third party rather than an heir.

Irrevocable Trusts

An irrevocable trust permanently transfers ownership of assets out of the grantor’s estate. Once established, the grantor no longer has control over the assets and changes generally require court approval or beneficiary consent.

Though less flexible than revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts are often used to reduce estate tax exposure, protect assets from lawsuits or future claims, or facilitate Medicaid planning or other eligibility-based programs.

They can also hold life insurance policies, real estate, or business interests, helping families plan for liquidity and facilitate a smooth transition across generations.

Graphic showing key stats and facts about wealth transfer, including that 60% of U.S. adults don't have a will

Addressing Common Estate Planning Pitfalls

Even when a trust is in place, several issues can undermine its effectiveness:

  • Improper titling of assets: Assets must be formally retitled into the name of the trust. A mismatch between legal documents and account ownership may derail the estate plan.
  • Beneficiary adjustments: Make sure the beneficiary designations on accounts like life insurance and retirement are aligned with the beneficiary on the trust. Mismatches are common and can undermine your estate plan.
  • Outdated documents: Wills and trusts prepared a decade ago most likely do not reflect your family’s current situation. Review and update the plan after life events like marriage, divorce, births, deaths, disability, or significant changes in assets.
  • Lack of preparedness: Set to take place over the next two decades, the Baby Boomer generation’s “Great Wealth Transfer” will move an estimated $84 trillion to spouses, dependents, and charities. Most heirs have no idea how much they will inherit, or even where to find estate documents in the event of a parent’s death or incapacity. At a minimum, connect heirs with the estate attorney who has the documents.
  • Lack of communication: In many cases, family conflicts arise not from a lack of resources but from a lack of communication. Parents who explain their estate decisions ahead of time, such as why they selected a particular child to be an executor or trustee or how real estate will be divided, help reduce confusion and resentment. Including a written letter of intent with estate documents provides additional context beyond the legal language.
  • Naming multiple co-executors: Many parents name two or more adult children as co-executors or trustees to be “fair”. In reality, this creates gridlock when siblings can’t agree on next steps. If you believe putting one sibling in charge will breed conflict, consider naming an independent trustee — like a corporate trustee service — instead.

How MGO Can Help

Trusts can protect wealth, but the real protection comes from thoughtful planning, proactive communication, and timely updates.

At MGO, we work with families to assess current estate tax exposure and identify and design appropriate estate tax minimization structures to align with your ultimate goal. We also help facilitate family discussions and connect heirs with the right advisors to assist in smooth transitions of estates.

Whether you’re establishing a trust for the first time or reevaluating an outdated estate plan, our team can provide insight into trust strategies tailored to your family’s values, financial goals, and long-term objectives.

Contact us today to explore how we can support your family with your estate planning.

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Proactive Tax Planning Strategies for Exiting Your Closely Held Business https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/proactive-tax-planning-strategies-exiting-closely-held-business/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=proactive-tax-planning-strategies-exiting-closely-held-business Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:35:40 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5246 Key Takeaways: — You’ve built significant wealth. As a result, taxes have become more than just a line item in your budget — they’re a force that can quietly erode your returns, complicate your business exit, and reshape your legacy. Fortunately, you have a window of opportunity to take control. Proactive tax planning can help […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • High-net-worth individuals often have multiple income streams and need to coordinate tax strategies across entity types and asset classes.
  • The proper structuring of investments can often have a significant positive impact on the economic gain realized.
  • Start to plan at least 18 to 24 months before the sale of a closely held business to ensure proper structure, boost business valuation, and improve after-tax outcomes.

You’ve built significant wealth. As a result, taxes have become more than just a line item in your budget — they’re a force that can quietly erode your returns, complicate your business exit, and reshape your legacy.

Fortunately, you have a window of opportunity to take control. Proactive tax planning can help you align today’s strategies with tomorrow’s vision — whether you’re juggling multiple businesses, eyeing a potential sale of an investment, or preparing to transition out of your company.

This article examines how to approach tax planning to maximize your earnings and stay ahead as tax laws shift.

Understanding the Tax Implications of Different Income Streams

The average high-net-worth individual typically has around seven income streams. These can include salaries and wages, pensions and annuities, interest, dividends, capital gains, rental and royalties, business profits, and more.

Each type of income can face different tax rules and rates — which makes planning across all sources critical.

For example, you might defer income into years where your marginal rate is lower (such as in retirement or during a gap year after a business sale), accelerate deductions in high-income years to offset earnings, or swap investment property using a 1031 like-kind exchange to defer recognition of capital gains.

Strategically harvesting investment losses can also help manage bracket thresholds and your exposure to the net investment income tax (NIIT).

Also, consider how you generate income through various entities. Sometimes, an investment’s structure can have a greater impact on tax outcomes than the investment itself.

For example, at the federal level, income from a C corporation is taxed at both the corporate (21%) and shareholder levels (up to 23.8% on dividends), resulting in effective tax rates that leave less than half of earnings in your control once you layer in state taxes. In contrast, S corporations and other passthrough structures may offer favorable pass-through treatment and qualify for a QBI deduction (20% of the business income).

Planning for Business Exits with Taxes in Mind

Selling a closely held business may be a once-in-a-lifetime event. The company may make up a large portion of your net worth and, with so much at stake, the tax treatment of the sale can dramatically alter the outcome.

We recommend that business owners start preparing for a sale at least 18 to 24 months in advance. But even if a sale isn’t on the immediate horizon, business owners should operate as though the company is always “for sale”. Opportunities often arise unexpectedly and financials that aren’t sale-ready can delay or derail a deal. Minimize all working capital kept in the business for at least the year preceding a sale. You will not be paid any more money for a business with a ton of working capital versus the minimum.

A knowledgeable CPA can help you identify red flags, clean up reporting, and implement strategies that improve the business’s financial profile so you’re prepared to act when the timing is right.

A longer timeline gives you runway to halt unnecessary reinvestment and boost earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) — directly affecting the sale price and reducing excess working capital.

Structuring the Deal

The structure of a sale plays a crucial part in the tax treatment of potential gains. Many sales of closely held businesses take the form of asset sales rather than stock sales, mainly because asset purchases offer more favorable terms to the buyer. When a buyer purchases the company’s assets, they avoid inheriting legacy liabilities and can allocate the purchase price among depreciable assets for future tax benefits.

However, even for transactions legally structured as a stock sale, buyers may use a Section 338(h)(10) election to treat the deal as an asset sale for tax purposes. This hybrid structure provides the buyer with the benefits of an asset acquisition while technically acquiring the stock.

From the seller’s perspective, both methods can yield similar tax outcomes. The gain from the sale typically flows through to the owner as a capital gain. If any portion of the purchase price is allocated to depreciated fixed assets, there may be a small amount of ordinary income due to depreciation recapture. As long as the owner is actively involved in the business at the time of sale, it’s generally exempt from the 3.8% NIIT.

In some cases, especially in deals involving private equity, buyers want to retain the existing owner’s involvement, so the buyer may acquire a majority interest and require the seller to continue managing the business. This is often structured through an F-reorganization, which allows for tax deferral on the portion of the business not immediately sold.

Another common feature of modern deals is the earnout: a portion of the sale price that’s paid over time based on the company’s future performance — usually tied to EBITDA targets. Earnouts can create significant tax planning opportunities and risks when they extend over several years.

Finally, for owners concerned about a large tax hit, investing the gain into Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) funds can provide a way to defer capital gains and potentially reduce future taxes. This benefit was made permanent by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Working closely with a CPA who understands these nuances allows you to align the terms of the sale with your broader financial goals.

Potential Section 1202 Tax Saving Strategies

Selling qualified small business stock (QSBS) may qualify for Section 1202 treatment. This tax provision allows individuals to avoid paying taxes on up to 100% of the taxable gain recognized on the sale of QSBS. The gain exclusion is worth $10 million or 10 times investment basis and applies to C Corporation stock issued after August 10, 1993, and before July 4, 2025, held for at least five years.

The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act increases the Section 1202 exclusion for gain to $15 million or 10 times basis for QSBS acquired after July 4, 2025, and held for at least five years. There is a reduced gain excluded if the stock issued after July 4, 2025, is only held for three years (50% exclusion) or four years (75% exclusion).

Section 1202 creates an effective tax rate savings of up to 23.8% for federal income tax, and many states follow the federal treatment — resulting in even more substantial savings.

How MGO Can Help

Tax outcomes are rarely 100% predictable, but we can help shape them with foresight and planning.

Now is the time to take a closer look at your income, investments, and business interests. Don’t wait until the tax code changes. Schedule a planning session with an MGO advisor to start building a roadmap today.

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Estate Planning Essentials for Seamless Wealth Transfer https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/estate-planning-essentials-seamless-wealth-transfer/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=estate-planning-essentials-seamless-wealth-transfer Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:49:40 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5283 Key Takeaways: — The U.S. is on the precipice of the largest generational transfer of wealth in history. Baby Boomers account for 51.8% of the country’s total wealth, and over the next two decades (through 2045) an estimated $68-84 trillion will transfer to their spouses, descendants, trusts, and family foundations. This massive shift will affect […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • Most Americans lack an up-to-date estate plan, leaving inheritances at risk of delays, disputes, and unintended distributions.
  • Wills and trusts help clarify intentions, avoid probate, and protect beneficiaries.
  • Review and update estate plans regularly — especially after major life events — to reflect changes in family structure, assets, and federal and state laws.

The U.S. is on the precipice of the largest generational transfer of wealth in history. Baby Boomers account for 51.8% of the country’s total wealth, and over the next two decades (through 2045) an estimated $68-84 trillion will transfer to their spouses, descendants, trusts, and family foundations.

This massive shift will affect millions of families, yet too many are unprepared — both those who will pass on wealth and those who will inherit it. Despite rising awareness of the importance of estate planning, an estimated two-thirds of Americans don’t have any estate planning documents (wills, living trusts, healthcare directive, durable power of attorney, etc.), and won’t bother until a medical diagnosis or the death of a family member compels them. And those who do prepare estate planning documents typically either: (1) fail to update them on a regular basis, or (2) don’t place their assets in the trust’s name — subjecting those assets to probate and court proceedings.

One recent development adds even more urgency to the need for estate planning conversations. The newly enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) permanently raises the federal estate tax exemption to $15 million per person or $30 million for married couples (with proper planning) starting in 2026. This increase shields more wealth from the 40% federal estate tax and creates new planning opportunities for high-net-worth families.

Graphic showing stats related to wills and trusts in the United States

With more flexibility under the new exemption levels, now is the time to take a look at your estate plan. A thoughtful and regularly updated estate plan is essential for families looking to preserve and pass on wealth. Here’s what that entails:

Start With the Fundamentals: Wills and Trusts

A will outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death and names guardians for minor children (if applicable). Without one, the state’s intestacy laws take over — which can delay the process and distribute assets in ways you may not have intended.

Certain trust structures take it a step further by allowing assets to bypass probate. This saves time, reduces legal and administrative fees, and helps maintain privacy. Trusts also offer greater control over how and when beneficiaries receive assets. This is particularly important for families with minor beneficiaries, blended families, or those with concerns about their heirs’ financial readiness.

Creating these documents is only the beginning. One common breakdown in estate plans comes from mismatched asset titling. For example, a trust may be established to hold real estate or investment accounts. But, if the assets are still titled in the individual’s name, they may fall outside the scope of the trust — requiring them to go through probate like any other asset.

After establishing a trust, review every asset — including bank accounts, brokerage accounts, and real property, to ensure correct titling and beneficiary designations.

Revisit and Refresh as Life Changes

Estate planning is not a one-time task. Documents drafted years ago may no longer reflect your current family structure, financial picture, or wishes.

Too often, we see wills and trusts that were never updated after:

  • Marriage, divorce, or remarriage
  • Birth or adoption of children or grandchildren
  • Total disability of a beneficiary
  • Death of a named trustee or beneficiary
  • Significant changes in wealth or business ownership

Additionally, federal and state laws are constantly evolving — and these changes can have profound effects on your estate plan. Schedule time for a full estate plan review every three to five years, or after major life events.

Leverage Gifting to Reduce Estate Size

Structured gifting can be a powerful yet simple way to reduce the taxable value of an estate, especially for families with closely held business interests.

In 2025, individuals can gift up to $19,000 annually to any number of recipients without using their lifetime exemption or filing a gift tax return. Married couples can gift $38,000 per recipient.

For high-net-worth families, these amounts may not be significant enough to matter on a year-to-year basis. However, when multiplied over several recipients over a decade or more, the total can be substantial.

For example, if a couple gifted $76,000 annually to an adult child and their spouse, that’s $760,000 over a decade. That amount is removed from the estate and potentially sheltered from the 40% estate tax.

This strategy can also include gifting fractional shares of a closely-held business to heirs over time. Doing so gradually helps prepare the next generation for future ownership while reducing the size of the taxable estate.

Be sure to work with your advisors to properly execute and document these gifts to avoid triggering unwanted tax consequences or disrupting business control.

Prepare the Next Generation for What’s Coming

An estimated 15% of Americans will receive an inheritance in the next 10 years, yet most lack the financial knowledge to handle the responsibility. Often, beneficiaries are unaware of the size of the estate or the decedent’s intention — and the disconnect can create confusion, resentment, or financial missteps after a family member’s death. Most family members are under the misbelief that they will be taxed upon the receipt of an inheritance.

Open communication about inheritance plans, values, and responsibilities reduces these risks. Consider involving heirs in estate planning conversations, educating them about trusts and business succession plans, and giving them opportunities to participate (with guidance) in philanthropic or investment decisions.

Address Complex Assets Like Family Businesses

Families with significant business holdings should pay special attention to succession planning and ownership transfer structures. Options may include:

  • Establishing a family limited partnership (FLP)
  • Using grantor-retained annuity trusts (GRATs)
  • Gifting non-voting or minority business interests gradually

These strategies require coordination between estate planning attorneys and tax advisors to align the legal structure with business operations, tax liabilities, cash flow needs, and long-term ownership goals.

How MGO Can Help

Wealth transfer doesn’t happen automatically. Without planning, estates of any size can become a source of friction, tax exposure, or missed opportunity.

At MGO, we help individuals and families develop tailored estate strategies that reflect your values, protect your assets, and align with evolving tax laws.

If you’re ready to take the next step in preserving your legacy and preparing future generations, reach out to our team today to start the conversation.

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How to Manage Deductions Under the New $40,000 SALT Cap and PTET Rules https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/salt-cap-ptet-tax-strategy-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=salt-cap-ptet-tax-strategy-2025 Fri, 29 Aug 2025 13:00:44 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5247 Key Takeaways: — The 2025 tax reset isn’t just about federal rates — it’s reigniting state and local tax (SALT) strategy discussions for pass-through businesses and their high-earning owners. With the SALT deduction cap rising from $10,000 to $40,000 and optional pass-through entity tax (PTET) regimes still in play across most states, CFOs and tax […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • The new $40,000 state and local tax deduction is helpful but insufficient for those that own and operate pass-through entities. These taxpayers should look at pass-through entity tax (PTET) planning.
  • PTET elections remain a key strategy for maximizing state tax deductions for federal tax purposes.
  • Pass-through owners should have their tax advisors model multi-year tax exposure across state PTET rules.

The 2025 tax reset isn’t just about federal rates — it’s reigniting state and local tax (SALT) strategy discussions for pass-through businesses and their high-earning owners.

With the SALT deduction cap rising from $10,000 to $40,000 and optional pass-through entity tax (PTET) regimes still in play across most states, CFOs and tax advisors need to re-examine how entity-level elections and personal income tax deductions on an owner’s 1040 Schedule A interact with one another. The decisions you make now could materially change both business and personal cash flow.

Key Takeaway #1: SALT Cap Now at $40,000 — But With a Catch

The increased cap allows for up to $40,000 of state and local tax deductions — a significant jump from the $10,000 limit placed on Schedule A deductions under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. But for most mid-market business owners and executives, it won’t make a huge dent without more planning.

Also keep in mind that with the SALT cap being raised to $40,000, this may make some or all of your state tax refund taxable on your federal return. This requires planning as well to determine the impact of the increased SALT cap. Additionally, there is a phase out of the $40,000 cap for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) over $500,000. At $600,000 in MAGI, the SALT cap phases back down to $10,000. This phase out has been labeled the “SALT torpedo”.

Action tip:

  • Confirm which state tax payments are eligible under the new definition (income, property, sales).
  • Consider timing payments to maximize deduction value across years.
  • Consider potential of federal taxability of any state tax refunds.
  • Consider whether you may be subjected to the SALT cap phase out if your income is between $500,000–$600,000.

Key Takeaway #2: PTET Still Has Teeth — Especially in States Like California, New York, and Hawaii With the Highest State Tax Rates

Despite the higher SALT cap, the PTET remains a powerful tool — especially since entity-level taxes are generally not subject to the SALT cap at all.

In California, for example, the PTET election was extended through 2030, offering owners of S corps, LLCs, and partnerships a continuing opportunity to shift tax liability from personal to business returns.

Action tip:

  • Take a hard look at PTET election scenarios for 2025–26 now with the new SALT structure in place retroactive to January 1, 2025.
  • Consider combined strategies that include SALT cap maximization plus PTET layering.
  • Model cash flow implications.

Graphic showing U.S. map highlighting states that have enacted or have proposed pass-through entity taxes

Key Takeaway #3: State-by-State PTET Strategy Still Matters

Not all state PTET programs are equal. Some states need annual elections, some require mid-year deposits, some are retroactive, and others carry risks of double taxation if owner-level credits aren’t managed properly.

Action tip:

  • Review your state’s PTET mechanics and deadlines (especially if you operate a pass-through entity in multiple states).
  • Coordinate with all of the business owners on credit carry forwards and reporting obligations. Verify the tax credit needs at the individual levels each year before making an election.

Case Study: How a California S Corp Owner Could Save up to $44,000

A California-based S corporation owner with $1.2 million in annual passthrough income faced a common dilemma: How to navigate state tax liabilities under the newly expanded SALT deduction while maximizing federal deductibility.

Before PTET:
The owner pays ~$130,000 in California income tax. Under the SALT cap — even raised to $40,000 — this would be phased back down to just $10,000 due to MAGI being over $600,000. The owner would technically lose out on a state tax deduction of $120,000+, increasing their federal tax burden by between $36,000-$44,000.

With PTET election:
The S corp elects to pay California’s pass-through entity tax. This shifts the majority of the state tax liability to the business level, allowing the owner to deduct $111,600 as a business expense and $10,000 on Schedule A, leaving only less than $10,000.

Net effect: Depending on the taxpayer’s bracket and other factors, this move could generate up to $44,000 in federal tax savings.

Take a Proactive Approach to Salt Cap and PTET Planning

The SALT cap increased itemized deduction is a welcome change — but it doesn’t cut the value of PTET planning. The most tax-efficient path in 2025 will likely involve stacking strategies: Using the $40,000 SALT deduction where applicable and electing the PTET to capture other deductions at the entity level. Each state’s rules vary, so a proactive approach is key.

How MGO Can Help

Want to assess whether PTET or SALT stacking makes sense for your entity structure? Contact our State and Local Tax team today to model your 2025 exposure and explore multi-state optimization.

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Accounting Tips for Startups: Setting Up Financial Systems for Success  https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/accounting-tips-for-startups-setting-up-financial-systems-for-success/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=accounting-tips-for-startups-setting-up-financial-systems-for-success Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:43:20 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=5064 Key Takeaways:  — Starting a business is exciting, but it’s easy for accounting to fall to the bottom of the to-do list in the rush to develop products and build a customer base.  Laying a strong financial foundation early on is crucial for long-term viability and growth. Whether your startup is bootstrapped or venture-backed, sound […]

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Key Takeaways: 

  • Accurate accounting helps startups attract investors, access credit, and make informed business decisions. 
  • Implementing a scalable accounting system early supports growth and compliance. 
  • Outsourcing accounting can save time, reduce risk, and provide strategic financial advice as your startup grows. 

Starting a business is exciting, but it’s easy for accounting to fall to the bottom of the to-do list in the rush to develop products and build a customer base. 

Laying a strong financial foundation early on is crucial for long-term viability and growth. Whether your startup is bootstrapped or venture-backed, sound accounting practices help you track performance, attract investors, access credit, and comply with tax rules. 

Why Accounting for a Startup Company Is Necessary

Startups face a unique set of financial pressures. Many operate with limited resources while attempting to scale quickly. In these circumstances, accurate and timely financial reports are critical for making informed decisions, managing cash flow, and demonstrating fiscal responsibility to potential lenders or investors. 

Investors may require financial statements if you’re looking for venture capital or preparing for Series A and beyond. Investors want to see a clear picture of burn rate, runway, margins, and revenue growth. Banks and other lenders typically require financial statements to underwrite loans or lines of credit. 

Beyond external stakeholders, accounting helps internal teams understand what is working and what isn’t. It shows your true customer acquisition cost (CAC), identifies where you can improve margins, and helps uncover early signs of inefficiency and waste. 

How to Set Up Accounting for Your Startup

Follow these steps to establish a solid accounting foundation for your startup’s financial health:

Step 1: Choose an Accounting Method 

One of the first decisions you need to make is whether to use cash basis or accrual basis accounting. 

  • Cash accounting records income when you receive cash and expenses when you pay them. This method is simple and often suitable for early-stage startups with minimal inventory or accounts receivable. However, it can give a misleading picture of profitability — especially if there are large timing differences between revenue and expenses. 
  • Accrual accounting records income when you earn it and expenses when you incur them, regardless of when cash changes hands. This approach provides a more accurate view of financial performance, and investors generally prefer it. 

Many startups begin using cash basis accounting but switch to accrual accounting as they mature. Whichever method you choose, consistency supports comparability and compliance. 

Step 2: Open Business Bank Accounts 

One important yet often overlooked step in setting up an accounting system is opening separate business bank accounts and credit cards.  

Mixing business and personal transactions in the same account makes it tough to track income and expenses. Using a separate bank account simplifies bookkeeping and streamlines monthly reconciliations. 

Using a business bank account to pay vendors, receive payments, and manage cash flow conveys professionalism to clients, suppliers, and financial institutions. It also provides a clearer audit trail when getting audited financial statements for investors, lenders, and regulators. 

Similarly, a dedicated business credit card can help establish a credit history for your company, help you track expenses by category, and potentially earn rewards while keeping personal spending separate. 

Taking this step early lays the groundwork for organized and transparent financial management. 

Step 3: Use an Accounting System 

Implementing reliable accounting software early on helps you avoid costly errors and inefficiencies down the road. Your accounting software should support basic accounting tasks such as: 

  • Recording financial transactions — including sales, purchases, payroll, etc. 
  • Reconciling bank accounts 
  • Paying bills 
  • Managing accounts payable and receivable 
  • Expense tracking by category or project 
  • Generating financial reports — including a balance sheet, profit and loss (P&L) statement, and cash flow statement 

For most startups, cloud-based accounting software is the logical choice. Platforms such as QuickBooks Online, Xero, or Sage Intacct offer scalability, automation, and access for remote teams. They also integrate with other tools —, including payroll, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, inventory management, and e-commerce platforms. 

Also, consider who will be responsible for entering data, approving payments, and reviewing reconciliation and other financial reports. Even with automation, you need oversight to maintain accuracy and prevent fraud. 

Step 4: Plan for Tax Preparation 

Taxes are often an afterthought for startups, but early planning prevents surprises and supports smoother compliance. 

Here are a few areas to address early on: 

  • Business structure: The choice between sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation impacts how you pay taxes. It also affects eligibility for certain deductions and credits. 
  • Sales tax nexus: Startups selling goods or services across state lines may have sales tax obligations in multiple jurisdictions. It’s crucial to understand where and when to collect and remit sales taxes. 
  • Payroll taxes: Hiring employees triggers payroll tax filing and remittance requirements. Misclassifying employees as independent workers or missing deadlines can result in penalties. 
  • Estimated taxes: You need to start making quarterly estimated tax payments as soon as the business starts generating profits. 
  • Tax deductions and credits: Startups involved in product development may be eligible for incentives, such as the research and development (R&D) tax credit. This credit can offset federal and state income taxes and, in some cases, payroll tax liabilities. However, it’s important to document qualifying activities and costs to claim these benefits. 

Should Your Startups Outsource Accounting? 

While many business owners attempt to handle bookkeeping themselves in the early stages, outsourcing is a strategic decision that saves time and reduces risk. 

Outsourced accounting services range from recording transactions and preparing monthly reconciliations to controller or CFO-level oversight. For startups with limited staff, this approach provides access to financial guidance without the cost of building an in-house team. 

Outsourcing is especially valuable when: 

  • The business has multiple revenue streams or international transactions 
  • Investors or lenders require formal financial statements 

Before engaging an external accounting services provider, evaluate their process, technology stack, and service model. Look for a professional who is experienced with early-stage companies in your industry and one who can scale services as your needs evolve. 

How MGO Can Help 

Accounting is the foundation for making strategic decisions and building financial credibility. Startups that invest early in solid accounting practices are better equipped to manage growth, appeal to investors, and handle their tax obligations. 

MGO helps founders build a strong accounting foundation — from selecting an accounting method and accounting software to managing outsourced accounting functions and preparing for tax obligations. Our team understands the unique challenges startups face and provides practical, reliable support to help you reach your business goals. 

Reach out today to learn how we can support your business’s financial health from day one. 

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What New Bonus Depreciation Rules Mean for Real Estate Investors https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/new-bonus-depreciation-rules-real-estate/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-bonus-depreciation-rules-real-estate Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:56:46 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=4979 Key Takeaways: — On July 4, President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. Among the sweeping tax and spending provisions, one key change stands out for real estate investors: the return of 100% bonus depreciation. Bonus depreciation is a powerful way to front-load deductions on qualifying property. Although it was […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • The new tax law permanently restores 100% bonus depreciation for qualified property placed in service after January 19, 2025.
  • This change allows you to fully deduct eligible improvement costs upfront — improving cash flow and long-term planning.
  • Real estate investors should watch for state-level differences and consider cost segregation studies to maximize the benefit.

On July 4, President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. Among the sweeping tax and spending provisions, one key change stands out for real estate investors: the return of 100% bonus depreciation.

Bonus depreciation is a powerful way to front-load deductions on qualifying property. Although it was first introduced in 2002 following the events of Sept. 11, the percentage deduction has varied over the years. Most recently, the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) increased bonus depreciation to a full 100% deduction. However, the TCJA also included a phasedown schedule — dropping the deduction to 40% in 2025 and eliminating it entirely by 2027.

Now, that phasedown has been reversed. The new law permanently restores 100% bonus depreciation for qualified property placed in service on or after January 20, 2025.

5 Ways the Return of 100% Bonus Depreciation Could Impact Your Strategy

If you’re investing in real estate, the return of 100% bonus depreciation creates new opportunities. Here are five ways it could affect your planning and cash flow moving forward:

1. You Can Plan Ahead With Certainty

For years, bonus depreciation rates have been a moving target. With this new law, you get consistency. Knowing that 100% bonus depreciation is now permanent gives you the ability to map out property improvements or acquisitions with a clear understanding of the tax impact. No more rushing projects to get ahead of a phase-down deadline. This is especially useful if you’re managing multiple properties or planning major capital expenditures.

2. Bigger Deductions Mean Better Cash Flow

Land improvements and qualified improvement property (QIP) — such as parking lots, landscaping, and interior upgrades to commercial buildings — are major expenses for real estate investors. With 100% bonus depreciation, you can deduct these costs in full the year they’re placed in service. That’s a non-cash expense generating real tax savings, freeing up cash you can reinvest into more properties, upgrades, or operations.

Graphic showing key benefits of 100% bonus depreciation for real estate investors

3. Bonus Depreciation Is Automatic — But You Still Have Options

The new law keeps the same framework: bonus depreciation is automatic unless you elect out. This means you don’t have to remember to file any special paperwork to claim the deduction. But if you’re planning to sell a property soon and want to avoid a large depreciation recapture, you still have the option to elect out of bonus depreciation for specific asset classes. That flexibility gives you more control over your long-term tax strategy.

4. Don’t Forget About State Taxes

While federal bonus depreciation is back at 100%, state treatment varies widely. Some states conform fully, others partially, and some not at all. Several states have flip-flopped in past years, some years complying with federal bonus depreciation rules and other years decoupling from the federal deduction, so it’s important to monitor changes over time. Failing to account for federal-to-state differences in depreciation can lead to surprises when filing your state returns. Work with a professional to stay ahead of shifting state policies.

5. Cost Segregation Studies Just Got More Valuable

With 100% bonus depreciation locked in, cost segregation studies are more useful than ever. These studies help you identify components of your property — like lighting, flooring, plumbing, land improvements and specialty electrical systems — that can be depreciated over five, seven, or 15 years instead of the standard 39 years or 27.5 years for residential real estate. That makes more of your investment eligible for immediate expensing. If you’re buying, renovating, or developing commercial or residential property, a cost segregation study could lead to substantial tax savings (use our cost segregation assessment tool to see if you could benefit).

Increased Opportunity and Complexity for Real Estate Investors

The return of 100% bonus depreciation is big news for real estate investors. It gives you stronger cash flow, more predictable planning, and powerful incentives to invest in and improve your properties. But it also adds complexity — from deciding when to elect out to understanding how state rules diverge from federal law.

How MGO Can Help

Our Real Estate team is ready to help you take full advantage of the new bonus depreciation rules. Whether you’re planning improvements, exploring a cost segregation study, or preparing for a property sale, we’ll work with you to uncover tax-saving opportunities and support your long-term investment strategy.

Reach out today to start planning your next move.

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5 Estate and Trust Planning Strategies for Your High-Net-Worth Family https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/high-net-worth-family-estate-trust-planning-strategies/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=high-net-worth-family-estate-trust-planning-strategies Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:57:16 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=4120 Key Takeaways: — For individuals and families with substantial assets, estate and trust planning can help manage risk, maintain control and safeguard wealth across generations. People often delay taking action until after a major life event. Delaying can mean missing out on valuable opportunities to structure your affairs efficiently. Let’s look at five proactive estate […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • The generous lifetime gift and estate tax exemption makes now an opportune time to transfer wealth.
  • Trusts can offer ways to retain control, provide for family members, and address tax exposure.
  • Delaying creating or updating estate plans can lead to outcomes that don’t reflect your wishes or family circumstances.

For individuals and families with substantial assets, estate and trust planning can help manage risk, maintain control and safeguard wealth across generations.

People often delay taking action until after a major life event. Delaying can mean missing out on valuable opportunities to structure your affairs efficiently.

Let’s look at five proactive estate and trust planning approaches that support long-term goals and address tax exposure, family dynamics, and philanthropic intent.

1. Transfer Wealth Thoughtfully with Lifetime Gifting Strategies

The current lifetime gift and estate tax exemption is historically high, set at $13.99 million per individual or $27.98 million for married couples in 2025.

There is talk in Washington about increasing the exemption or eliminating the estate tax entirely. However, while it remains, gifting allows you to transfer wealth out of your estate, potentially bringing the value of your estate below the lifetime exemption threshold.

For example, you can make direct gifts to family members up to the annual exclusion amount ($19,000 per recipient in 2025) without using any of your lifetime exemption. To be even more generous, consider paying medical expenses or tuition on behalf of the recipient. Payments made directly to the institution don’t count toward your annual gift limit or your lifetime exemption.

2. Use Trusts to Balance Control and Flexibility

Trusts are valuable tools for high-net-worth families seeking to preserve control and protect their assets. When carefully designed and managed, they can even help address complex family dynamics and future risks — such as loss of wealth due to divorce, creditor claims, or poor financial decisions by heirs.

Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust (IDGT)

One strategy to consider is transferring assets to an IDGT. This type of trust is disregarded for income tax purposes. You pay tax on any income generated by the assets in the IDGT, thereby allowing the trust to grow without the burden of paying income taxes (since it is paid by the donor and not subject to gift taxes). 

Transferring minority interests in real property or businesses allows you to reduce the reportable gift by a minority discount. However, it’s crucial to discuss this strategy with a tax advisor to ensure the tax law has not been modified to restrict the benefits of this type of entity.

You retain certain powers, such as the ability to swap assets in and out of the trust in exchange for other assets of equal value.

For estate and gift tax purposes, the assets transferred to the IDGT are removed from your estate. However, the ability to substitute assets from the IDGT provides flexibility if you’re unsure of which assets to gift initially or if your estate plans change in the future.

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs)

Another trust strategy is CRTs. By establishing a CRT before a major sale, the trust provides an income stream to you as the donor and a future benefit to your kids or a charitable organization, while potentially generating current tax deductions.

3. Tax Planning for Investments

The structure of your investments has estate planning implications.

If you have concentrated stock positions, exchange funds allow you to substitute or replace your shares in exchange for a pooled investment vehicle structured as a partnership. Since you don’t sell the securities, you don’t trigger capital gains at the time of exchange. When structured correctly, you can convert a single security into a diversified portfolio that mimics the risk profile of a broad-based stock index.

Municipal bonds and U.S. Treasury bonds are other options for tax-efficient investing. The interest earned on municipal bonds is generally excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes. Additionally, the income may be exempt from state and local taxes if you’re a resident of the state where the bond was issued.

The income earned on Treasury bonds is subject to federal taxes but is exempt from state and local taxes.

4. Tax Strategies for Philanthropic Giving

Philanthropy plays a central role in many estate plans. Some strategies to discuss with your tax and financial advisors include:

Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)

A DAF is an investment account set up for the sole purpose of supporting charitable organizations. It provides an immediate charitable deduction, but you have the flexibility to distribute funds to charities over time. While you decide which charities to support, your donation can potentially grow.

Ideally, you would contribute long-term appreciated assets (not cash) to the DAF so the unrealized gain on the asset avoids taxation, and you receive an income tax deduction equal to the fair market value of the donated securities.

You can establish a DAF at most brokerage firms.

Charitable Gifting Before a Liquidity Event

Donating appreciated assets to a qualifying charity may allow you to avoid capital gains tax on the sale of a privately held business.

For example, say you’re preparing to sell your interest in a business, which will result in a capital gain. Before the sale, you might consider making a donation to your own private foundation or a public charity, charitable remainder trust, or a DAF to lower your taxable income below the threshold required to qualify for a 0% or 15% capital gains tax rate. This strategy potentially avoids capital gains on the appreciated assets donated, reduces the tax impact of selling the business, and yields a charitable deduction.

Again, these are complex transactions. It’s crucial to work with a tax advisor who specializes in guiding you through these tax-saving opportunities.

5. Avoid Common Pitfalls in Estate Planning

Despite the importance of estate planning and the potential advantages, it’s easy to procrastinate when it comes to actually getting your affairs in order. But delaying or ignoring these decisions can lead to costly consequences.

Here are some of the issues we see arise frequently:

  • Outdated documents: If you created your estate plan when your children were minors, it may no longer reflect the appropriate structures once they reach adulthood. Life changes like marriage, divorce, or disability can dramatically affect your intended outcomes.
  • “DIY” or online estate plans: It’s tempting to try to avoid attorney fees by drafting a will and other estate planning documents on your own or with the help of online tools. However, incomplete or inaccurate estate planning documents can cause complications after death. Instead, work with an attorney who is familiar with the laws in your state. Many offer free initial consultations and charge a flat fee for drafting basic estate planning documents.
  • Lack of prenuptial agreements: According to a Harris Poll survey conducted by Axios, only about one in five married couples have a prenuptial agreement. While not as common in first marriages, a prenuptial agreement is an essential estate planning tool for second (and subsequent) marriages. Without one, wealth may be unintentionally diverted away from children in blended family situations.
Graphic showing events that should trigger you to update your estate plan, such as like marriage, divorce, or children reaching adulthood

How MGO Can Help

Thoughtful estate and trust planning is an act of good stewardship. However, timing matters.

Whether you’re anticipating a liquidity event, entering a second marriage, or updating your existing plan, reach out to MGO’s Private Client Services team. We can help you develop and manage trusts and estate plans to shape your legacy, care for future generations, and support the causes you believe in.

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3 State and Local Tax Strategies for High-Net-Worth Individuals https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/state-local-tax-strategies-high-net-worth-individuals/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=state-local-tax-strategies-high-net-worth-individuals Thu, 10 Jul 2025 17:01:37 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=4247 Key Takeaways: — State and local tax (SALT) planning has become increasingly important for high-net-worth individuals as state and local governments revise their tax regulations in response to revenue needs and economic shifts. The patchwork of rules across jurisdictions brings both risks and opportunities. High-tax states like California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, New […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • High-tax states may challenge changes in residency — scrutinizing the number of days spent in the state, domicile intent, and income allocations.
  • Income sourcing rules vary by state, increasing complexity for remote workers and business owners with sales, property, employees, or operations in multiple states.
  • Strategic charitable giving can provide additional benefits at the state level.

State and local tax (SALT) planning has become increasingly important for high-net-worth individuals as state and local governments revise their tax regulations in response to revenue needs and economic shifts. The patchwork of rules across jurisdictions brings both risks and opportunities.

High-tax states like California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey, and Vermont frequently introduce new regulations targeting affluent residents and non-residents who spend significant time in the state.

This article explores three critical SALT strategies: residency planning, income sourcing, and charitable giving.

Why State and Local Tax Planning Matters

Unlike the federal tax system, which applies uniformly to all U.S. residents, SALT rules vary widely from state to state and even city to city and can change rapidly.

Some states, like New York, impose high top marginal income tax rates and aggressively audit high earners who claim residency elsewhere. Others, like Florida or Texas, levy no personal income tax but may increase scrutiny around proving residency for new arrivals.

In 2023 and 2024 alone, several states enacted new tax surcharges, adjusted apportionment rules, or announced stepped-up enforcement for residency audits. As mobility increases and remote work becomes the norm, tax authorities are tightening their focus on where taxpayers earn income and where they’re truly domiciled.

Explore These 3 Key SALT Strategies

Each of the following planning areas offers a valuable opportunity to reduce state and local tax exposure:

1. Residency Planning: More Than Just a Mailing Address

Relocating from one state to another can be costly if you don’t plan for tax implications like income taxes and estate taxes — especially if you move from a high-tax state to one with little to no income tax (i.e. California to Florida). Making your move stick in the face of a state residency audit requires more than buying a home and changing your driver’s license.

“Domicile” is an important term in the tax world. It refers to your primary, permanent home. Statutory residency can apply even if your domicile is elsewhere — as long as you maintain a residence in the state and spend a threshold number of days there. For example, New York considers you to be a resident if you spend 184 days or more in the state during the taxable year. Hawaii considers you to be a resident if you spend more than 200 days of the year in the state — and those days don’t have to be consecutive.

Many states use time-based tests to determine tax residency, so maintaining a detailed log of your location or recreating the log using cell phone data or travel records can be a crucial audit defense.

Other factors tax authorities consider include where you vote, receive mail, go to the doctor, register your vehicles, and more. Residency audits can look back several years, so it’s crucial to maintain a consistent paper trail that aligns with your stated residency.

2. Income Sourcing: Where Is Your Income Taxable?

It’s also crucial to understand how income is sourced across states — particularly for taxpayers with multistate businesses, investment properties, or remote work arrangements.

States apply different rules to allocate income. Some use market-based sourcing, which sources receipts based on the location of customers (which can be determined in various ways). Other states use cost-of-performance sourcing, which sources receipts based on the location where the services are performed.

In addition to sourcing rules, states use different apportionment rules to allocate an organization’s income across states. Apportionment formulas may consider three factors (sales, property, and wages), a single sales factor, or industry-specific apportionment for certain business models or operating structures.

However, owners of businesses with revenue streams derived from multi-state customers should consider a sales sourcing assessment. A review of sales sourcing can potentially result in a decrease in the apportionment factor (leading to decreased tax liabilities) and minimize audit risks, interest, and penalties down the road.

Even working in another state for a day can lead to nonresident tax filing requirements. According to the Tax Foundation, 23 states have no meaningful nonresident individual income tax filing threshold — meaning nonresidents may need to file an income tax return if they spend a single day working in the state.

Other states have established minimum thresholds for nonresident filing requirements. For example, if you work more than 15 days and earn more than $6,000 in Connecticut, you’re required to file a nonresident return there. Meanwhile, Vermont requires nonresidents to file a tax return if they earn at least $100 in the state.

In many cases, you can claim a credit on your home state’s taxes for income taxes paid to another state. But even if filing in multiple states doesn’t increase your total tax liability, it increases the complexity of your filings.

3. Charitable Giving: Balancing Your Gifts with SALT Benefits

Taxpayers often think of charitable giving in the context of federal tax deductions, but some states offer tax benefits or credits that can increase the impact of your gifts.

Examples of SALT-friendly charitable giving include:

  • State tax credit programs: Some states offer tax credits for contributions to certain types of organizations, such as school tuition programs or community foundations. Tax credits reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar, making them more valuable than tax deductions (which only reduce your taxable income).
  • Donor-advised funds (DAFs): Contributions to DAFs allow you to bunch deductions in a year when income is unusually high due to the sale of an asset or a bonus payout. This strategy potentially optimizes both federal and state tax outcomes.
  • Timing and entity selection: Consider whether to give personally or through a business in states with entity-level taxes.

Work with a tax advisor to identify state-level credits or programs that align with your philanthropic goals. Keep in mind that non-cash contributions may require a qualified appraisal and additional documentation.

How MGO Can Help

State and local tax planning and compliance are complex for taxpayers with significant income or assets across multiple states. At MGO, we work with high-net-worth individuals to help clarify your residency status, evaluate income sourcing risks, and design charitable giving strategies that align with both your personal goals and evolving state tax laws.

Our team stays current on legislative changes and audit trends across jurisdictions, helping you proactively adapt your planning. Whether you’re considering a change in residence, managing business income across multiple states, or looking to increase the impact of your charitable giving, we can provide the insight and support you need to make informed, strategic decisions. Reach out to explore how thoughtful SALT planning can support your broader financial goals.

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Live Streamers: Are You Managing Your Business Like a Pro? https://www.mgocpa.com/perspective/live-streamers-are-you-managing-your-business-like-a-pro/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=live-streamers-are-you-managing-your-business-like-a-pro Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:18:56 +0000 https://www.mgocpa.com/?post_type=perspective&p=4183 Key Takeaways: — Live streaming is more than a trend — it’s a movement. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, Instagram Live, and TikTok are turning everyday creators into digital stars by allowing real-time interaction with fans. And thanks to the ability to repurpose and share live content across multiple platforms, your audience isn’t just watching […]

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Key Takeaways:

  • Live streamers are evolving into powerful digital brands, and managing your growth like a business is essential for long-term success.
  • To stay financially healthy, you need to separate personal and business finances, track all income sources, and budget for quarterly taxes and year-end planning.
  • Having professional support can help you make smarter decisions, handle unpredictable income, and turn short-term wins into sustainable growth.

Live streaming is more than a trend — it’s a movement. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, Instagram Live, and TikTok are turning everyday creators into digital stars by allowing real-time interaction with fans. And thanks to the ability to repurpose and share live content across multiple platforms, your audience isn’t just watching — they’re building a relationship with you.

That connection is powerful. Whether you’re streaming gameplay, makeup tutorials, or experiences in haunted houses, live streaming is reshaping how audiences engage with content. But, as your following grows, your responsibilities grow with it. You’re not just entertaining anymore — you’re building a brand. So how do you make the most of your momentum?

3 Questions Every Live Streamer Should Be Asking

If you’re serious about turning your streaming success into a real business, these are the questions that can shape your future — creatively and financially:

1. How Can I Monetize My Content and Grow My Business?

You’ve got the audience — now it’s time to turn your stream into a business. The good news is, you’re not waiting for a record deal or TV contract. You have direct access to revenue streams like ad revenue, subscriptions, sponsorships, merch, and even licensing deals. That gives you full control — but also full responsibility.

Growth doesn’t just mean more followers — it means building a sustainable business. That starts with thinking like a brand. Top streamers are forming business entities, tracking income and expenses, and hiring teams to handle editing, scheduling, and outreach. And they’re diversifying beyond just one platform — because relying on an algorithm is risky. Building direct-to-audience channels like newsletters or merch stores can create more stable income streams and reduce platform dependence.

Learn more about how you can take control of monetization.

2. What Am I Missing When It Comes to Taxes and Accounting?

If you’re earning money from your content, you’re running a business — and that means you likely owe taxes, whether you’re aware of them or not. It’s helpful to track expenses and delineate between your business and personal finances. Use dedicated accounts for income, expenses, taxes, and savings. By doing this, it keeps things cleaner for tax reporting and helps you see the full picture in an organized way.

Also, keep detailed records. That includes ad revenue, sponsorships, “gifts” from brands (which are often taxable), merch income, and even crypto or NFTs. Many creators miss out on valuable deductions for equipment, software, and home office use — all of which can reduce your tax bill. And don’t forget to plan (or save) for tax payments. In certain cases, you may need to pay the IRS quarterly or during year-end planning. A sudden spike in income without proper planning could mean trouble down the road.

Get 10 vital tax and accounting tips every creator need to know.

3. Do I Need a Business Manager?

The moment your income becomes unpredictable, inconsistent, or complicated — it’s time to bring in help. A business manager acts as your personal CFO, handling everything from bill payments and budgeting to tax planning, investment vetting, and estate strategy. They free you up to focus on creating while managing the financial foundation of your career.

It’s not just about managing success — it’s about preparing for what’s next. Business managers help smooth out income peaks and valleys, forecast future needs, and protect against costly mistakes. Whether it’s helping you avoid a bad investment, forming a business entity, or simply translating what your earnings really mean after fees and taxes — they’re there to protect your interests. Bringing one on early in your journey can help you build good financial habits from the start.

Find out why every entertainer needs a business manager.

Turn Your Streams Into a Sustainable Business

You’re not just creating content, you’re running a business. That means thinking beyond daily views and focusing on long-term goals. Whether you’re looking to increase revenue, navigate taxes, or plan for the future, our dedicated Entertainment, Sports, and Media team provides the financial guidance you need. Reach out to our team today to find out how we can help you take your business to the next level.

The post Live Streamers: Are You Managing Your Business Like a Pro? appeared first on MGO CPA | Tax, Audit, and Consulting Services.

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