Retirement Plan for the Self-Employeed | Accounting Milwaukee Retirement

If all the retirement plans available to small business owners, the SIMPLE IRA plan (Savings Incentive Match PLan for Employees) is the easiest to set up and the least expensive to manage.
These plans are intended to encourage small business employers to offer retirement coverage to their employees. SIMPLE IRA plans work well for small business owners who don't want to spend a lot of time and pay high administration fees associated with more complex retirement plans.
SIMPLE IRA plans really shine for self-employed business owners. Here's why...
Self-employed business owners are able to contribute both as employee and employer, with both contributions made from self-employment earnings.
SIMPLE IRA plans calculate contributions in two steps:

1. Employee out-of-salary contribution
The limit on this "elective deferral" is $12,000 in 2014, after which it can rise further with the cost of living.
Catch-up. Owner-employees age 50 or older can make an additional $2,500 deductible "catch-up" contribution (for a total of $14,500) as an employee in 2014.
2. Employer "matching" contribution
The employer match equals a maximum of 3 percent of employee's earnings.

Example: A 52-year-old owner-employee with self-employment earnings of $40,000 could contribute and deduct $12,000 as employee, and an additional $2,500 employee catch-up contribution, plus $1,200 (3 percent of $40,000) employer match, for a total of $15,700.

SIMPLE IRA plans are an excellent choice for home-based businesses and ideal for full-time employees or homemakers who make a modest income from a sideline business.
If living expenses are covered by your day job (or your spouse's job), you would be free to put all of your sideline earnings, up to the ceiling, into SIMPLE IRA plan retirement investments.

A Truly Simple Plan

A SIMPLE IRA plan is easier to set up and operate than most other plans. Contributions go into an IRA you set up. Those familiar with IRA rules - in investment options, spousal rights, creditors' rights - don't have a lot new to learn.
Requirements for reporting to the IRS and other agencies are negligible. Your plan's custodian, typically an investment institution, has the reporting duties. And the process for figuring the deductible contribution is a bit easier than with other plans.

What's Not So Good About SIMPLE IRA Plans

Once self-employment earnings become significant however, other retirement plans may be more advantageous than a SIMPLE IRA retirement plan.

Example: If you are under 50 with $50,000 of self-employment earnings in 2014, you could contribute $12,000 as employee to your SIMPLE IRA plan plus an additional 3 percent of $50,000 as an employer contribution, for a total of $13,500. In contrast, a 401(k) plan would allow a $30,000 contribution.
With $100,000 of earnings, it would be a total of $15,000 with a SIMPLE IRA plan and $42,500 with a 401(k).

Because investments are through an IRA, you're not in direct control. You must work through a financial or other institution acting as trustee or custodian, and you will generally have fewer investment options than if you were your own trustee, as you would be in a 401(k).
It won't work to set up the SIMPLE IRA plan after a year ends and still get a deduction that year, as is allowed with Simplified Employee Pension Plans, or SEPs. Generally, to make a SIMPLE IRA plan effective for a year, it must be set up by October 1 of that year. A later date is allowed where the business is started after October 1; here the SIMPLE IRA plan must be set up as soon thereafter as administratively feasible.
If the SIMPLE IRA plan is set up for a sideline business and you're already vested in a 401(k) in another business or as an employee the total amount you can put into the SIMPLE IRA plan and the 401(k) combined (in 2014) can't be more than $17,500 or $23,000 if catch-up contributions are made to the 401(k) by someone age 50 or over.
So someone under age 50 who puts $9,000 in her 401(k) can't put more than $8,500 in her SIMPLE IRA plan for 2014. The same limit applies if you have a SIMPLE IRA plan while also contributing as an employee to a 403(b) annuity (typically for government employees and teachers in public and private schools).

How to Get Started with a SIMPLE IRA Plan

You can set up a SIMPLE IRA plan account on your own, but most people turn to financial institutions. SIMPLE IRA Plans are offered by the same financial institutions that offer any other IRAs and 401k plans.
You can expect the institution to give you a plan document and an adoption agreement. In the adoption agreement you will choose an "effective date" - the beginning date for payments out of salary or business earnings. That date can't be later than October 1 of the year you adopt the plan, except for a business formed after October 1.
Another key document is the Salary Reduction Agreement, which briefly describes how money goes into your SIMPLE IRA plan. You need such an agreement even if you pay yourself business profits rather than salary.
Printed guidance on operating the SIMPLE IRA plan may also be provided. You will also be establishing a SIMPLE IRA plan account for yourself as participant.

Read more here


We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Late income tax return help | Milwaukee Tax accounting

What to Do if You Haven't Filed an Income Tax Return

Filing a past due return may not be as difficult as you think.
Taxpayers should file all tax returns that are due, regardless of whether full payment can be made with the return. Depending on an individual's circumstances, a taxpayer filing late may qualify for a payment plan. It is important, however, to know that full payment of taxes upfront saves you money.

Here's What to Do When Your Return Is Late

Gather Past Due Return Information
Gather return information and come see us. You should bring any and all information related to income and deductions for the tax years for which a return is required to be filed.
Payment Options - Ways to Make a Payment
There are several different ways to make a payment on your taxes. Payments can be made by credit card, electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier's check, or cash.
Payment Options - For Those Who Can't Pay in Full
Taxpayers unable to pay all taxes due on the bill are encouraged to pay as much as possible. By paying as much as possible now, the amount of interest and penalties owed will be lessened. Based on the circumstances, a taxpayer could qualify for an extension of time to pay, an installment agreement, a temporary delay, or an offer in compromise.
Taxpayers who need more time to pay can set up either a short-term payment extension or a monthly payment plan.

• A short-term extension gives a taxpayer an additional 60 to 120 days to pay. No fee is charged, but the late-payment penalty plus interest will apply. Generally taxpayers will pay less in penalties and interest than if the debt were repaid through an installment agreement over a greater period of time.
• A monthly payment plan or installment agreement gives a taxpayer more time to pay. However, penalties and interest will continue to be charged on the unpaid portion of the debt throughout the duration of the installment agreement/payment plan. Taxpayers who owe $25,000 or less in combined tax, penalties and interest can apply for, and receive immediate notification of approval through an IRS web-based application. Balances over $25,000 require taxpayers to complete a financial statement to determine the monthly payment amount for an installment plan. When it comes to paying your tax bill, it is important to review all your options; the interest rate on a loan or credit card may be lower than the combination of penalties and interest imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. You should pay as much as possible before entering into an installment agreement.
• You can also pay your Federal taxes using a major credit card or debit card. There is no IRS fee for credit or debit card payments, but the processing companies charge a convenience fee or flat fee.
• A user fee will also be charged if the installment agreement is approved. The fee, normally $120, is reduced to $52 if taxpayers agree to make their monthly payments electronically through electronic funds withdrawal. The fee is $43 for eligible low-and-moderate-income taxpayers.

What Happens If You Don't File a Past Due Return or Contact the IRS?

It's important to understand the ramifications of not filing a past due return and the steps that the IRS will take. Taxpayers who continue to not file a required return and fail to respond to IRS requests for a return may be considered for a variety of enforcement actions.
If you haven't filed a tax return yet, please contact us. We're here to help!

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Record Keeping for Small Business Brookfield WI | SBAS Group

Most people have no idea where to start searching for their important records. They usually keep them scattered in various locations - tax records in a file cabinet, savings bonds in a home safe, wills at an attorney's office, some contracts or deeds in a bank safe deposit box. 

There's a reason many people do not have an organized recordkeeping system: Organizing your records is stressful and confusing. The Document Locator System is effective because it takes away that stress and http://sbasgroup.com/business-strategies.php?item=102&catid=8&cat=Document+Locator+System%3A+A+Handy+Aid+For+Keeping+Track+of+Your+Records#1

confusion. This simple recordkeeping system provides an easy way to keep track of your important personal (not business) records, keeping them organized and available. You will not miss out on a tax deduction because you did not keep the necessary receipt. More importantly, the document locator system will help a spouse or executor locate your documents in case of death or disability. - See more at:http://sbasgroup.com/auditing.php


Stockholders, creditors, and private investors often need assurance that the financial statements accurately represent the true financial position of a company.
Your stockholders, creditors, or private investors have different levels of risk tolerance, so we provide three levels of assurance to meet your needs.

Audit - Highest Level of Assurance

An audit provides the highest level of assurance. An audit is a methodical review and objective examination of the financial statements, including the verification of specific information as determined by the auditor or as established by general practice.
Our work includes a review of internal controls, testing of selected transactions, and communication with third parties. Based on our findings, we issue a report on whether the financial statements are fairly stated and free of material misstatements.
An Audit allows you to...

• Satisfy stakeholders such as employees, customers, suppliers and pressure groups, as well as the investing community, as to the credibility of published information.
   
• Facilitate the payment of corporate tax, goods and services tax, and other taxes on-time and accurately, thereby avoiding interest, penalties, and investigations.
   
• Comply with banking covenants.
   
• Help deter and detect material fraud and error.
   
• Facilitate the purchase and sale of businesses.
   

Here's what you get...
You get the highest level of assurance because we go outside your company to obtain more information. Typically, we'll have written communication with:

• Your customers, to check outstanding receivable balances,
• Your banks, to confirm cash or debt balances and terms,
• Your vendors, to verify outstanding payable balances, and
• Your attorneys, for information on pending or threatened legal action.

We also perform physical inspections by observing your inventory counting methods and perform test counts. We document and test each operating cycle, including sales and cash receipts, expenses and cash disbursements, and payroll. Our audit papers include a detailed work program to document the examinations and testing performed, as well as the client's supporting work papers.
Audits Not Just for Public Entities
All public companies are required to have an annual audit, but some nonpublic entities must undergo an annual audit as well. These include local governments, not-for-profit agencies and other organizations receiving government grants.
Moreover, some financial institutions require audits of nonpublic companies based on the financing amount and/or the bank's assessment of the company's risk. Also, companies with absentee ownership (such as those owned by investment firms, or individuals who no longer run the business) may order audits as checks of their management teams.We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Milwaukee Accounting and Record keeping | Sbas Group Milwaukee

 Complete and accurate financial record keeping is crucial to your business success. Good records provide the financial data that help you operate more efficiently. Accurate and complete records enable you to identify all your business assets, liabilities, income and expenses. That information helps you pinpoint both the strong and weak phases of your business operations.

Moreover, good records are essential for the preparation of current financial statements, such as the income statement (profit and loss) and cash-flow projection. These statements, in turn, are critical for maintaining good relations with your banker. Finally, good records help you avoid underpaying or overpaying your taxes. In addition, good records are essential during an Internal Revenue Service audit, if you hope to answer questions accurately and to the satisfaction of the IRS.

To assure your success, your financial records should show how much income you are generating now and project how much income you can expect to generate in the future. They should inform you of the amount of cash tied up in accounts receivable. Records also need to indicate what you owe for merchandise, rent, utilities, and equipment, as well as such expenses as payroll, payroll taxes, advertising, equipment and facilities maintenance, and benefit plans for yourself and employees. Records will tell you how much cash is on hand and how much is tied-up in inventory. They should reveal which of your product lines, departments, or services are making a profit, as well as your gross and net profit.

The Basic Record keeping System

A basic record-keeping system needs a basic journal to record transactions, accounts receivable records, accounts payable records, payroll records, petty cash records, and inventory records.

An accountant can develop the entire system most suitable for your business needs and train you in maintaining these records on a regular basis. These records will form the basis of your financial statements and tax returns.
- See more at: http://sbasgroup.com/frequently-asked-questions.php?item=141&catid=29&cat=Recordkeeping:%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions#sthash.83E3tTqq.dpuf
We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Brookfield Accounting | Milwaukee Accountants SBAS Group

Are you wondering if there's a hard and fast rule about what income is taxable and what income is not taxable? The quick answer is that all income is taxable unless the law specifically excludes it. But as you might have guessed, there's more to it than that.
Taxable income includes any money you receive, such as wages and tips, but it can also include non-cash income from property or services. For example, both parties in a barter exchange must include the fair market value of goods or services received as income on their tax return.

Nontaxable Income

Here are some types of income that are usually not taxable:

• Gifts and inheritances
• Child support payments
• Welfare benefits
• Damage awards for physical injury or sickness
• Cash rebates from a dealer or manufacturer for an item you buy
• Reimbursements for qualified adoption expenses

In addition, some types of income are not taxable except under certain conditions, including:

• Life insurance proceeds paid to you are usually not taxable. But if you redeem a life insurance policy for cash, any amount that is more than the cost of the policy is taxable.
• Income from a qualified scholarship is normally not taxable. This means that amounts you use for certain costs, such as tuition and required books, are not taxable. However, amounts you use for room and board are taxable.
• If you received a state or local income tax refund, the amount may be taxable. You should have received a 2013 Form 1099-G from the agency that made the payment to you. If you didn't get it by mail, the agency may have provided the form electronically. Contact them to find out how to get the form. Be sure to report any taxable refund you received even if you did not receive Form 1099-G.

Important Reminders about Tip Income
If you get tips on the job from customers, that income is subject to taxes. Here's what you should keep in mind when it comes to receiving tips on the job:

• Tips are taxable. You must pay federal income tax on any tips you receive. The value of non-cash tips, such as tickets, passes or other items of value are also subject to income tax.
• Include all tips on your income tax return. You must include the total of all tips you received during the year on your income tax return. This includes tips directly from customers, tips added to credit cards and your share of tips received under a tip-splitting agreement with other employees.
• Report tips to your employer. If you receive $20 or more in tips in any one month, from any one job, you must report your tips for that month to your employer. The report should only include cash, check, debit and credit card tips you receive. Your employer is required to withhold federal income, Social Security and Medicare taxes on the reported tips. Do not report the value of any noncash tips to your employer.
• Keep a daily log of tips. Use the Employee's Daily Record of Tips and Report to Employer (IRS Publication 1244), to record your tips.

Bartering Income is Taxable
Bartering is the trading of one product or service for another. Small businesses sometimes barter to get products or services they need. For example, a plumber might trade plumbing work with a dentist for dental services. Typically, there is no exchange of cash.
If you barter, the value of products or services from bartering is taxable income. Here are four facts about bartering that you should be aware of:
1. Barter exchanges. A barter exchange is an organized marketplace where members barter products or services. Some exchanges operate out of an office and others over the Internet. All barter exchanges are required to issue Form 1099-B, Proceeds from Broker and Barter Exchange Transactions. The exchange must give a copy of the form to its members who barter and file a copy with the IRS.
2. Bartering income. Barter and trade dollars are the same as real dollars for tax purposes and must be reported on a tax return. Both parties must report as income the fair market value of the product or service they get.
3. Tax implications. Bartering is taxable in the year it occurs. The tax rules may vary based on the type of bartering that takes place. Barterers may owe income taxes, self-employment taxes, employment taxes or excise taxes on their bartering income.
4. Reporting rules. How you report bartering on a tax return varies. If you are in a trade or business, you normally report it on Form 1040, Schedule C, Profit or Loss from Business.
If you have any questions about taxable and nontaxable income, don't hesitate to contact us.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Tax Preparation and Accounting in Brookfield Wi | Sbas Group

Preparing your own income tax return can be a task that leaves you with more questions than answers. According to a study released by the US Government's General Accounting Office last year, most taxpayers (77% of 71 million taxpayers) believe they benefited from using a professional tax preparer.
Whether we like it or not, today's tax laws are so complicated that filing a relatively simple return can be confusing. It is just too easy to overlook deductions and credits to which you are entitled. Even if you use a computer software program there's no substitute for the assistance of an experienced tax professional.
Here's what you get...

• Your tax return will be checked and rechecked by our computer software identifying potential problems the IRS may look at more closely and reviewing the math to limit IRS contacts.
   
• Your tax return can be filed electronically so you will get a refund back quicker.
   
• Our staff will show you how to adjust your payroll withholding to get more money back each week. Why give the IRS an interest free loan for up to 16 months.
   
• We will show you potential deductions to limit your tax liability for next year. In addition, we will give you a sheet of commonly overlooked deductions to limit the following year's tax liability.

Books a Mess? No Problem!
If you own a small business and haven't kept up your bookkeeping, don't worry. We can help you. We'll prepare your bookkeeping for the year, prepare a full Schedule C, as well as your personal income tax return. Then we'll help you set up an easy system that allows you to keep your books in tip-top shape next year.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Accountants Brookfield WI | Sbas Group

The Brookfield Wi accountants at SBAS Group (Small Business Accounting Solutions) I had an accountant... then I became an accountant... My name is Dan Milos, and here's what's important to know about me... Before I became a CPA, I owned a small business.  We designed complex tooling and machinery and what often kept me up at night was worrying about cash flow and tax liabilites. It seemed like every time I turned around my bank account was being emptied out by the IRS. I hired good accounting firms, but often felt that I didn't understand their language. Consequently, I was often surprised with my tax position - and often watched as my bank account drained unexpectedly. My trade moved overseas to China so I decided to reinvent myself. I was great with numbers and really thought I could help others understand what I didn't as a small business owner. I worked for very successful CPA firms in Southeast Wisconsin before opening my own business. I watched carefully, paying attention to what each of them did well - and finally opened my own practice using the best of what I learned. I learned that business owners want us to listen to them, guide them and not surprise them with fees and tax liabilities. It's personally important to me to have a relationship with each client - and to communicate clearly in a language that everyone understands. I want my clients to reach their goals - and want to do more than just crunch numbers for them. We Listen... It's important to really listen to someone if you want to help them. We need to understand each Client's unique goals if we're really going to help them succeed - so we listen carefully. We encourage our Clients to communicate with us as often as they'd like - and don't bill them for their phone calls and questions.  We Guide... We guide our Clients once we understand their goals. We help them develop a plan for profit using simple budgeting tools.  We also help them understand their tax position throughout the year by reviewing their financial statements - to avoid surprises at tax time. You Smile... We measure our success by how happy our Clients are. It's a simple measure - but it's really the most important one. Clients can smile when they know that they're really in control of their financial future. Clients can smile when tax time rolls around and they find themselves prepared - rather than surprised. Clients can smile knowing that they can call us with any question at any time - and there's no added cost... Accounting Services

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We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Milwaukee Tax Preparation | Sbas Group

Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC serves Milwaukee, Waukesha, Brookfield WI, and Southeastern Wisconsin. Our Tax Preparation Services are done with CPA's who will work one-on-one with you to achieve your financial goals. Call us today at 262-547-6000.

Preparing your own income tax return can be a task that leaves you with more questions than answers. According to a study released by the US Government's General Accounting Office last year, most taxpayers (77% of 71 million taxpayers) believe they benefited from using a professional tax preparer.
Whether we like it or not, today's tax laws are so complicated that filing a relatively simple return can be confusing. It is just too easy to overlook deductions and credits to which you are entitled. Even if you use a computer software program there's no substitute for the assistance of an experienced tax professional.

Here's what you get...

• Your tax return will be checked and rechecked by our computer software identifying potential problems the IRS may look at more closely and reviewing the math to limit IRS contacts.
  
• Your tax return can be filed electronically so you will get a refund back quicker.
  
• Our staff will show you how to adjust your payroll withholding to get more money back each week. Why give the IRS an interest free loan for up to 16 months.
  
• We will show you potential deductions to limit your tax liability for next year. In addition, we will give you a sheet of commonly overlooked deductions to limit the following year's tax liability.

Books a Mess? No Problem!
If you own a small business and haven't kept up your bookkeeping, don't worry. We can help you. We'll prepare your bookkeeping for the year, prepare a full Schedule C, as well as your personal income tax return. Then we'll help you set up an easy system that allows you to keep your books in tip-top shape next year.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Audits and Bookkeeping Services in Milwaukee | Small Business Accounting Group

Audit - Highest Level of Assurance

An audit provides the highest level of assurance. An audit is a methodical review and objective examination of the financial statements, including the verification of specific information as determined by the auditor or as established by general practice.
Our work includes a review of internal controls, testing of selected transactions, and communication with third parties. Based on our findings, we issue a report on whether the financial statements are fairly stated and free of material misstatements.

An Audit allows you to...

• Satisfy stakeholders such as employees, customers, suppliers and pressure groups, as well as the investing community, as to the credibility of published information.
   
• Facilitate the payment of corporate tax, goods and services tax, and other taxes on-time and accurately, thereby avoiding interest, penalties, and investigations.
   
• Comply with banking covenants.
   
• Help deter and detect material fraud and error.
   
• Facilitate the purchase and sale of businesses.
   

Here's what you get...
You get the highest level of assurance because we go outside your company to obtain more information. Typically, we'll have written communication with:

• Your customers, to check outstanding receivable balances,
• Your banks, to confirm cash or debt balances and terms,
• Your vendors, to verify outstanding payable balances, and
• Your attorneys, for information on pending or threatened legal action.

We also perform physical inspections by observing your inventory counting methods and perform test counts. We document and test each operating cycle, including sales and cash receipts, expenses and cash disbursements, and payroll. Our audit papers include a detailed work program to document the examinations and testing performed, as well as the client's supporting work papers.
Audits Not Just for Public Entities
All public companies are required to have an annual audit, but some nonpublic entities must undergo an annual audit as well. These include local governments, not-for-profit agencies and other organizations receiving government grants.
Moreover, some financial institutions require audits of nonpublic companies based on the financing amount and/or the bank's assessment of the company's risk. Also, companies with absentee ownership (such as those owned by investment firms, or individuals who no longer run the business) may order audits as checks of their management teams.
 

Review - Limited Assurance

Less extensive than an audit, but more involved than a compilation, a review engagement consists primarily of analytical procedures we apply to the financial statements, and various inquiries we make of your company's management team. If the financial statements or supporting information appear inconsistent or otherwise questionable, we may need to perform additional procedures.
A review doesn't require us to study and evaluate your company's internal controls or verify data with third parties or physically inspect assets. Rather, a review report expresses limited assurance in the form of the statement: "We are not aware of any material modifications" for the financial statements to be in conformity with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Reviewed financial statements must include all required footnotes and other disclosures.

Why might a business request a review engagement? It can be a good middle ground, providing the advantages of a CPA's technical expertise without the work and expense of an audit.
 

Compilation - Lowest Level of Assurance

In compiling financial statements for a client, we present information that is the "representation of management" and expresses no opinion or assurance on the statements. Compilations don't require inquiries of management or analytical procedures. Instead, we rely on our knowledge of accounting principles and a general understanding of your business.
Banks often require compilations from an independent CPA as part of their lending covenants.
Which Report Should You Use?
Each type of financial statement report may suit specific circumstances, depending on requirements from your client's bank or other parties, as well as meet budgetary needs.
Understanding each report's unique strengths and weaknesses can help you choose the most appropriate one. Please call if you have questions about which type of report is right for you.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

IRS Tax Forms and Publications | Brookfield Accounting and Tax Preparation

The publications listed below are located on the IRS Web site and require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view. Visit the Adobe Web Site to install the latest version of Acrobat Reader.Click a publication to view it online.

Publication 1	Your Rights As a Taxpayer
Publication 3	Armed Forces' Tax Guide
Publication 15	Circular E, Employer's Tax Guide
Publication 15A	Employer's Supplemental Tax Guide
Publication 17	Your Federal Income Tax
Publication 51	Circular A, Agricultural Employer's Tax Guide
Publication 54	Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad
Publication 80	Circular SS - Federal Tax Guide for Employers in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
Publication 225	Farmer's Tax Guide
Publication 334	Tax Guide for Small Business
Publication 463	Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses
Publication 501	Exemptions, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information
Publication 502	Medical and Dental Expenses
Publication 503	Child and Dependent Care Expenses
Publication 504	Divorced or Separated Individuals
Publication 505	Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax
Publication 509	Tax Calendars
Publication 510	Excise Taxes (Including Fuel Tax Credits and Refunds)
Publication 513	Tax Information for Visitors to the U.S.
Publication 514	Foreign Tax Credit for Individuals
Publication 515	Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Corporations
Publication 516	U.S. Government Civilian Employees Stationed Abroad
Publication 517	Social Security and Other Information for Members of the Clergy & Religious Workers
Publication 519	U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens
Publication 521	Moving Expenses
Publication 523	Selling Your Home
Publication 524	Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled
Publication 525	Taxable and Nontaxable Income
Publication 526	Charitable Contributions
Publication 527	Residential Rental Property (Including Rental of Vacation Homes)
Publication 529	Miscellaneous Deductions
Publication 530	Tax Information for First-Time Homeowners
Publication 531	Reporting Tip Income
Publication 533	Self-Employment Tax
Publication 535	Business Expenses
Publication 536	Net Operating Losses
Publication 537	Installment Sales
Publication 538	Accounting Periods and Methods
Publication 541	Partnerships
Publication 542	Corporations
Publication 544	Sales and other Dispositions of Assets
Publication 547	Casualties, Disasters, and Thefts
Publication 550	Investment Income and Expenses (Including Capital Gains and Losses and Mutual fund Distributions)
Publication 552	Recordkeeping for Individuals
Publication 554	Older Americans' Tax Guide
Publication 555	Community Property
Publication 556	Examination of Returns, Appeal Rights, and Claims for Refund
Publication 557	Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization
Publication 559	Survivors, Executors and Administrators
Publication 560	Retirement Plans for Small Business
Publication 570	Tax Guide for Individuals With Income from U.S. Possessions
Publication 571	Tax-Sheltered Annuity Programs for Employees of Public Schools and Certain Tax-Exempt Organizations
Publication 575	Pension and Annuity Income
Publication 583	Starting a Business and Keeping Records
Publication 587	Business Use of Your Home (Including Use by Day-Care Providers)
Publication 590	Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)(Including SEP-IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs)
Publication 593	Tax Highlights for U.S. Citizens and Residents Going Abroad
Publication 595	Tax Highlights for Commercial Fishermen
Publication 596	Earned Income Credit
Publication 598	Tax on Unrelated Business Income of Exempt Organizations
Publication 721	Tax Guide to U.S. Civil Service Retirement Benefits
Publication 901	U.S. Tax Treaties
Publication 907	Tax Highlights for Persons With Disabilities
Form 911	Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance
Publication 915	Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits
Publication 919	How Do I Adjust My Tax Withholding?
Publication 925	Passive Activity and At-Risk Rules
Publication 926	Household Employers Tax Guide
Publication 929	Tax Rules for Children and Dependents
Publication 936	Home Mortgage Interest Deduction
Publication 939	General Rule for Pensions and Annuities
Publication 946	How to Depreciate Property
Publication 950	Introduction to Estate and Gift Taxes
Publication 954	Tax Incentives for Empowerment Zones and Other Distressed Communities
Publication 957	Reporting Back Pay and Special Wage Payments to the Social Security Administration
Publication 967	The IRS Will Figure Your Tax
Form 8839	Qualified Adoption Expenses
Publication 969	Medical Savings Accounts
Publication 970	Tax Benefits for Higher Education
Publication 1212	Guide to Original Issue Discount Instruments
Publication 1542	Per Diem Rates
Publication 1544	Reporting Cash Payments of Over $10,000

Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC
1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500
Brookfield, WI 53005
Phone: (262)547-6000
info@sbasgroup.com
Serving Waukesha, Milwaukee and Brookfield Wi

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Individual Tax Changes for 2013 | Brookfield Accountant SBASGroup

 Individual Tax Changes for 2013

From personal deductions to tax credits and educational expenses, many of the tax changes affecting individuals were related to the signing of the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA), which modified, made permanent, or extended a number of tax provisions that expired in 2010 and 2011. With that in mind, here's what individuals and families need to know about tax changes that took effect in 2013.
Personal Exemptions
The personal and dependent exemption for tax year 2013 is $3,900.
Standard Deductions
In 2013 the standard deduction for married couples filing a joint return is $12,200. For singles and married individuals filing separately, it's $6,100, and for heads of household the deduction is $8,950.
The additional standard deduction for blind people and senior citizens increases in 2013 to $1,200 for married individuals and $1,500 for singles and heads of household.
Income Tax Rates
Beginning in tax year 2013, a new tax rate of 39.6 percent has been added for individuals whose income exceeds $400,000 ($450,000 for married taxpayers filing a joint return). The other marginal rates--10, 15, 25, 28, 33 and 35 percent--remain the same as in prior years.
Due to inflation, tax-bracket thresholds increased for every filing status. For example, the taxable-income threshold separating the 15-percent bracket from the 25-percent bracket is $72,500 for a married couple filing a joint return.
Estate and Gift Taxes
The recent overhaul of estate and gift taxes means that there is an exemption of $5.25 million per individual for estate, gift and generation-skipping taxes, with a top rate of 40%. The annual exclusion for gifts is $14,000.

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We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop",  Our Accountants & CPAs provide accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services to small business owners in Southeast Wisconsin including Milwaukee, Greenfield, New Berlin, Muskego, West Allis & Waukesha.!

 Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Brookfield Accountants | Sbas Group

I had an accountant... then I became an accountant...

My name is Dan Milos, and here's what's important to know about me...

Before I became a CPA, I owned a small business.  We designed complex tooling and machinery and what often kept me up at night was worrying about cash flow and tax liabilites. It seemed like every time I turned around my bank account was being emptied out by the IRS. I hired good accounting firms, but often felt that I didn't understand their language. Consequently, I was often surprised with my tax position - and often watched as my bank account drained unexpectedly.

My trade moved overseas to China so I decided to reinvent myself. I was great with numbers and really thought I could help others understand what I didn't as a small business owner. I worked for very successful CPA firms in Southeast Wisconsin before opening my own business. I watched carefully, paying attention to what each of them did well - and finally opened my own practice using the best of what I learned.

I learned that business owners want us to listen to them, guide them and not surprise them with fees and tax liabilities. It's personally important to me to have a relationship with each client - and to communicate clearly in a language that everyone understands. I want my clients to reach their goals - and want to do more than just crunch numbers for them.

We Listen...

It's important to really listen to someone if you want to help them. We need to understand each Client's unique goals if we're really going to help them succeed - so we listen carefully. We encourage our Clients to communicate with us as often as they'd like - and don't bill them for their phone calls and questions. 

We Guide...

We guide our Clients once we understand their goals. We help them develop a plan for profit using simple budgeting tools.  We also help them understand their tax position throughout the year by reviewing their financial statements - to avoid surprises at tax time.

You Smile...

We measure our success by how happy our Clients are. It's a simple measure - but it's really the most important one. Clients can smile when they know that they're really in control of their financial future. Clients can smile when tax time rolls around and they find themselves prepared - rather than surprised. Clients can smile knowing that they can call us with any question at any time - and there's no added cost...

My Firm...

All Associates in our office are educated and dedicated to our Clients.

Sarah is our Accounting Services Director. She has superior skills when it comes to attention to detail and organization. In other words - nothing falls through the cracks once it hits Sarah's desk! She's earned a four year degree in accounting and is currently working on her Master's degree so that she's eligible to take the CPA exam.

Diane is our Payroll and HR Director. She's an incredible problem solver - and when things get tough Diane steps up to the plate. Clients love her direct and no-nonsense approach. She's earned a four year degree in accounting, a Master's degree in HR and is pursuing an MBA.

Jean is our Client Services Director. She has great  integrity and is truly  one of the most dedicated people you'll ever know. Jean keeps our entire office focused on keeping our Clients happy. She works hard to introduce Clients to our firm and takes her reputation as seriously as I take the reputation of our entire firm.

Whitney is apprenticing as our Bookkeeper. She's an incredibly fast learner and has matched Sarah's attention to detail (which is really quite an accomplishment!). Whitney is currently attending college while pursuing a degree in accounting.

Please feel free to call us any time to learn more...
Dan Milos, CPA

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Quickbooks training and tips Milwaukee | Sbas Group

	QuickBooks Tips

	Shortcuts A list of key combinations for QuickBooks that make common tasks quicker.		Efficiency Tips Some tips designed to increase the overall efficiency of your QuickBooks experience.
	Accuracy Tips Several tips to help increase the accuracy of your QuickBooks experience.		Setup and Customization Tips Information on helpful features like password protecting, QuickBooks sharing, and other customizations.
	Advanced Features Several tips and tricks to help make even the most advanced QuickBooks tasks easier and more efficient.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com

Small Business Accounting West Allis | Sbas Group

 Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC serves West Allis and Southeastern Wisconsin.  As your Business Accountant, we take care of your books for you. Call us today at 262-547-6000.

As a small business owner you have more important things to do than to keep your own books. We take care of your books for you, so you can get back to the job of running your business and generating profits!
Each month or quarter we'll do the following things for you...

• Reconcile your bank account
• Generate an income statement 
• Generate a balance sheet
• Clean up your general ledger
• Provide unlimited consultations

These tasks form the solid foundation of your small business accounting system. You can customize the package of services you receive by adding payroll, tax planning, tax preparation, or any of our other services.

Bank Reconciliation
Reconciling your business checking account each month allow us to keep your bank account, accounting, and taxes up-to-date.
Having us reconcile your account each month allows you to...

• Identify lost checks, lost deposits and unauthorized wire transactions.
   
• Detect and prevent excess/unjustified bank charges and ensures transactions are posted correctly by your bank.
   
• Detect and prevent embezzlement of funds from within your company.
   
• Know how your business is doing? You can't really know unless all accounts are reconciled and properly accounted for on your financial statement.
   
• Manage your cash more effectively. Proper management of funds not only saves money, it makes money for you.
   
• Protect yourself. By timely reconciling and promptly objecting to your bank about any unauthorized, fraudulent or forged checks presented to your bank and paid by that bank, you can relieve your agency of responsibility for the shortfall and transfer the risk to the bank. This reason to reconcile alone should be enough. Crime exists.
   
• Sleep Better. You will sleep more peacefully at night knowing your bank accounts are reconciled, in balance and that all escrow funds, accounts, checks and disbursed funds are properly accounted for.

 
Income Statement An income statement, otherwise known as a profit and loss statement, basically adds an itemized list of all your revenues and subtracts an itemized list of all your expenses to come up with a profit or loss for the period.
An income statement allows you to...

• Track revenues and expenses so that you can determine the operating performance of your business.
   
• Determine what areas of your business are over-budget or under-budget.
   
• Identify specific items that are causing unexpected expenditures. Like phone, fax, mail, or supply expenses.
   
• Track dramatic increases in product returns or cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales.
   
• Determine your income tax liability.
  

Balance Sheet
A balance sheet gives you a snapshot of your business' financial condition at a specific moment in time.
A balance sheet helps you...

• Quickly get a handle on the financial strength and capabilities of your business.
   
• Identify and analyze trends, particularly in the area of receivables and payables. For example, if your receivables cycle is lengthening, maybe you can collect your receivables more aggressively.
   
• Determine if your business is in a position to expand.
   
• Determine if your business can easily handle the normal financial ebbs and flows of revenues and expenses?
   
• Determine if you need to take immediate steps to bolster cash reserves?
   
• Determine if your business has been slowing down payables to forestall an inevitable cash shortage?

Balance sheets, along with income statements, are the most basic elements in providing financial reporting to potential lenders such as banks, investors, and vendors who are considering how much credit to grant you.

Maintaining a Clean General Ledger
The general ledger is the core of your company's financial records. These records constitute the central "books" of your system. Since every transaction flows through the general ledger, a problem with your general ledger throws off all your books.
Having us review your general ledger system each month allows us to hunt down any discrepancies such as double billings or any unrecorded payments. Then we'll fix the discrepancies so your books are always accurate and kept in tip top shape.

Unlimited Consultations
We are always available to spend time with you so you fully understand how to interpret and utilize the financial information we provide. Our consultations are already included in our price, so please feel free to call us whenever you have a question or concern.

We also offer payroll solutions that meet your business's needs and enable you to spend time doing what you do best--running your company.
Why Outsource Your Payroll...
It's Cost Effective
Use your staff more efficiently by letting us handle payroll and the associated legal details. Reduce overhead by removing the need to hire specialized employees.

We at Small Business Accounting Solutions LLC, work closely with small business owners in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Washington counties. As a "one-stop-shop", we provide our clients with complete Accounting services, Business and Individual Income Tax preparation, Payroll services, Quickbooks training and more! Small Business Accounting Solutions, LLC 1025 S Moorland Road Suite 500 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262)547-6000 http://www.sbasgroup.com