Enacted in 1996, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit that eligible employers can claim if they hire eligible individuals who have consistently faced stringent barriers to employment. According to the Department of Labor, "Each year, employers claim over $1 billion...
A tax credit for small-employer pension plan startup costs may be awaiting you. You may be able to claim a tax credit of up to $5,000 when you set up an SEP or a SIMPLE IRA or a qualified plan such as a 401(k). You...
Mobile workers have become an important and growing part of the modern workforce. Cloud computing and ubiquitous high-speed internet have enabled many industries to support remote workers. Businesses offering either fully remote or hybrid work flexibility have experienced increased competition for top talent during the...
Many people take up gig work on a part-time or full-time basis, often through a digital platform like an app or website. Gig work, such driving a car for booked rides, selling goods online, renting out property, or providing other on-demand work, is taxable and...
When a business hires an independent contractor, the employer is generally not responsible for withholding income taxes, Social Security, or Medicare taxes from their compensation. However, by law, business taxpayers who pay nonemployee compensation of $600 or more must report these payments to the IRS....
With continuing phone and in-person IRS scams taking place across the country, the IRS wants to help taxpayers understand how and why agency representatives may contact taxpayers. In most instances, the IRS sends a letter or written notice to a taxpayer in advance, but not always....
Employers, including certain tax-exempt employers, may be eligible for the work opportunity tax credit if they hire individuals who face employment barriers. Work Opportunity Tax Credit This is a one-time credit for each new hire. To claim the credit, employers must file Form 8850, Pre-Screening...
Business travel can be costly. Hotel bills, airfare or train tickets, cab fare, public transportation – it can all add up fast. The good news is business travelers may be able to off-set some of those costs by claiming business travel deductions when they file...
For many new grads and other people entering the workforce for the first time, filling out new hire paperwork can be confusing—what’s a W-4, anyway? New employees should ensure they understand their tax situation and do some planning now, so they’re in good shape at...
If you find yourself short-staffed, there's no harm in calling a former employee who has retired. You won't jeopardize your pension plan's tax status if you rehire retirees. Nor is it a problem if you permit distributions of retirement benefits to employees who hit the...