If your small business is planning for payroll next year, be aware that the “Social Security wage base” is increasing. The Social Security Administration recently announced that the maximum earnings subject to Social Security tax will increase from $137,700 in 2020 to $142,800 in 2021. For 2021, the FICA tax rate for both employers and…
The possible tax consequences of PPP loa...
If your business was fortunate enough to get a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan taken out in connection with the COVID-19 crisis, you should be aware of the potential tax implications. PPP basics The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was enacted on March 27, 2020, is designed to provide financial assistance…
Paycheck Protection Flexibility Act
In some welcome news, the Senate passed the House Bill to provide enhanced and, in many cases, more lenient guidelines for PPP loan forgiveness. As soon as the President signs The Paycheck Protection Flexibility Act, borrowers will be able to adjust their plans and budgets for the use of their PPP funds according to the…
PPP Loan Forgiveness Application: Guidan...
With the release of the PPP Loan Forgiveness Application and related guidance, we now have some needed clarification – and yet are left with many unanswered questions. The rules continue to evolve as the 8-week coverage period approaches the finish line for some who qualified for the loans. While there are talks of expanding the 8-week…
The new COVID-19 law provides businesses...
On March 27, another coronavirus (COVID-19) bill was signed into law, which provides extensive relief for businesses and employers. Here are some of the tax-related provisions in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Employee retention credit The new law provides a refundable payroll tax credit for 50% of wages paid by…
Employers: Be aware (or beware) of a har...
If federal income tax and employment taxes (including Social Security) are withheld from employees’ paychecks and not handed over to the IRS, a harsh penalty can be imposed. To make matters worse, the penalty can be assessed personally against a “responsible individual.” If a business makes payroll tax payments late, there are escalating penalties. And…
Employee vs. independent contractor: How...
Businesses should consult with us before filing Form SS-8 because it may alert the IRS that your business has worker classification issues — and inadvertently trigger an employment tax audit.