The exchange of intangible property involves a two-part test. Yes, you can arrange a tax-deferred exchange of your company’s intellectual property — for example, copyrights, patents or trademarks — with another company. However, the IRS imposes strict requirements on such “like-kind” transfers and requires a specific analysis for each transaction. Like-Kind Exchange Basics Generally, no taxable gain  Continue Reading »

A covenant not to compete prevents the seller from competing in the same industry for a specified time period and within a specified geographic range, and on the part of the seller, is similar to title insurance to the buyer of the business. In this sense, it protects the buyer from the loss of value tied to  Continue Reading »

A sneak preview of proposed modifications to the rules governing overtime was provided last year, but a change has been coming for two years. On May 18, the Department of Labor (DOL) came out with its new final rules, which take effect on December 1, 2016. The rules will significantly raise the salary level used  Continue Reading »

Estate planning can be a challenge for many Maine family business owners. Often times, wealth is tied up in their companies, which creates a conflict between the desire to transfer ownership to the next generation and the desire to stay in control. Recapitalizing the business into voting and nonvoting shares is one potential solution, as  Continue Reading »

Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015, many tax breaks have been retroactively expanded for 2015 and beyond, and in some cases been made permanent. Now that the new law has settled, individuals and small business owners can plan ahead with these 10 midyear tax strategies inspired by the recent legislation. 5  Continue Reading »

This election season, there seems to be great deal of disagreement, but there is one thing the majority of voters are agreeing on—95% of voters, regardless of which U.S. presidential candidate they favor, support American-made products. According to the Alliance for American Manufacturing, the vast majority of Americans also favor training programs, trade enforcement, tax incentives  Continue Reading »

Take note if your organization employs seasonal workers or part-timers for the holidays: The IRS has issued a Health Care Tax Tip on how these individuals affect whether your business is subject to the shared responsibility provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Background Applicable large employers (ALEs) are required by the ACA to report the  Continue Reading »

A top concern for Maine businesses is attracting and retaining qualified employees. Each year, numerous positions go unfilled, often because job applicants don’t have the requisite skills or training. Some proactive employers are tackling the issue with the help of federal and state programs. Here’s a closer look at the issues. Supply vs. Demand The  Continue Reading »

It can be difficult to plan for your replacement and deal with your mortality, which is why many Maine business owners procrastinate putting a well-conceived succession plan in place. The reasons are understandable. However, there are many reasons why it’s best to make a proactive plan. Here are five of the top reasons why business owners  Continue Reading »

If you participate in a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k), profit-sharing, or Keogh plan, through your job or self-employment, you might be allowed to borrow from the account. It’s important to note that the borrowing option is not available for traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEPs or SIMPLE-IRAs. In the right circumstances, taking out a  Continue Reading »