Hoskins & Company

A temporary federal income tax deduction for interest on qualifying auto loans for 2025 through 2028 was created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The write-off, available even if you don’t itemize, is capped at $10,000 per tax return, subject to income-based phaseouts. It applies only to interest on first-lien loans to buy U.S.-assembled passenger vehicles for personal use. Leased, used and fleet vehicles are excluded. The IRS recently issued proposed regulations that clarify how the deduction works. For example, they address the “personal use” requirement. Contact us for details at (615) 321-7333.

Your 2025 individual income tax return can provide a treasure trove of tax-planning ideas for 2026. We can dig into your 1040 and uncover potential strategies you can implement this year to reduce your 2026 taxes. We also can assist with filing extended 2025 returns. Call us at (615) 321-7333 to set up an appointment.

In today’s uncertain markets, maintaining an adequate cash reserve provides much-needed financial stability for your business. You can access these funds to meet seasonal needs, cover equipment breakdowns and other expenditures, and pursue growth opportunities. But excessive “rainy day” funds could be an inefficient use of capital. After determining your company’s optimal cash balance, consider repurposing any surplus. For example, you might use the excess funds to invest in short-term marketable securities or repay high-interest debt. We can help evaluate your working capital needs and strengthen your balance sheet. Call us at [%Phone] to discuss.

Did you know you can amend your tax return if you need to revise information after you filed it? Amended returns let taxpayers fix errors or omissions — such as income, deductions, credits or filing status — and make certain late elections. They can also be used to address tax law changes, claim losses and credit carrybacks, and more. You can e-file up to three amended returns per tax year. Usually, you have up to three years from the original filing deadline or two years from when you paid the tax, whichever is later, to claim a refund. But the rules can be complex. Contact us at (615) 321-7333 for guidance.

It’s almost never too late to start planning for retirement. Whether you already have large 401(k) or IRA balances or are starting from scratch, we can help craft a strategy that reflects your personal situation and addresses your goals. So start thinking about what’s important to you: Building a big nest egg, reducing income tax liability, something else … We’re here to help make it possible!

When you’re busy running a business, it’s easy to overlook or dismiss the warning signs of financial distress. Rising employee turnover can signal internal strain. Cash flow issues may indicate slow collections or weak working capital practices. And sudden external shifts — such as interest rate volatility, cost increases or supply chain disruptions — can take a toll on otherwise healthy businesses. Supplementing your company’s year-end financial statements with interim reports or targeted agreed-upon procedures can help you spot problems early and take prompt corrective action. Contact us at (615) 321-7333 to learn more.

You’ll receive a CP24 notice if the IRS reviews your tax return and determines you’re due a refund that differs from what you originally claimed. This often happens because the IRS corrected a math error, applied a payment or credit differently, or offset a refund to pay another tax liability. The notice explains what changed and how the refund was calculated. Generally, no response is required if you agree with the adjustment; your adjusted refund will be issued automatically. But if you disagree or don’t understand the change, it’s important to review the notice carefully and respond by the deadline. We can help you determine whether the IRS adjustment is correct and advise on next steps. Call us at (615) 321-7333.

If you’d like to help a charity for a period of time but ultimately benefit one or more heirs and potentially save gift and estate taxes, consider a charitable lead trust (CLT). You transfer assets to the irrevocable CLT and the charity receives payments from it for a term of years. When the term expires, the remaining assets are distributed to the CLT’s beneficiaries. The CLT assets can include publicly traded securities, real estate, business interests and even private company stock. Call us at (615) 321-7333 for more details.

Can business debt become personal? In some cases, yes. If you’re a sole proprietor or a general partner in a partnership, you’re personally liable for business debts. Owners of corporations and limited liability companies are generally protected from personal liability, unless they personally guarantee a loan, commit fraud or fail to keep business and personal finances separate. Payroll taxes are different. The IRS can assess the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty to hold owners, officers or other responsible individuals personally liable for unpaid withheld payroll taxes, regardless of the business structure. This applies even if the business declares bankruptcy. Call us at (615) 321-7333 with questions.

The IRS issued interim guidance on the new special depreciation allowance for qualified production property under tax legislation signed into law in July of 2025. The guidance defines qualified production property and activities (such as certain manufacturing, chemical production and agricultural production), explains how to determine the allowance, and outlines how and when to elect it. It also addresses depreciation recapture if the property no longer meets the requirements. Eligible taxpayers can deduct up to 100% of the unadjusted basis of qualified production property placed in service after July 4, 2025, and before Jan. 1, 2031. Contact us at (615) 321-7333 if you have questions.