Achieve Accounting Consulting

10/12/2026

Eligibility for Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts has expanded to individuals whose blindness or disability began before age 46. Until this year, the blindness or disability had to have begun before age 26. As a result, many people who weren’t previously eligible can benefit from these accounts beginning in 2026. ABLE accounts offer tax-advantaged savings for qualified disability expenses. The 2026 contribution limit is generally $20,000. In some cases, 529 plan funds can be rolled over tax-free to ABLE accounts, counting toward the annual limit. Call us at (858) 371-4300 to learn more.

10/09/2026

If you’re responsible for collecting, accounting for or remitting federal taxes withheld from employee paychecks, beware of the trust fund recovery penalty (TFRP). As a responsible individual, you may be personally liable for a 100% penalty on income and employment taxes your business either fails to collect or fails to remit to the IRS. Your actions must be “willful,” meaning you’ve been, or should have been, aware of the responsibility and either intentionally disregarded the law or were indifferent to it. According to the IRS, no “evil intent or bad motive” is required. Call us at (858) 371-4300 if you receive a letter from the IRS about the TFRP or for help with tax compliance.

10/07/2026

Accurate financial records are essential for your company’s success. However, many small business owners struggle with accounting and bookkeeping tasks. We can handle these chores for you, so you can focus on running your business. Call us at (858) 371-4300 to schedule a consultation.

10/06/2026

We’re more than just tax and accounting professionals. We’re your partners in business growth. Beyond preparing your tax returns and keeping your books in order, we can help you improve cash flow, safely plan for expansion and make smarter financial decisions. Let’s talk about how our advisory services can strengthen your strategic planning, streamline operations, and uncover new opportunities for long-term growth and success. Call us today at (858) 371-4300 to schedule a consultation.

10/05/2026

Many 401(k) plans have “vesting schedules,” or timelines for when certain employer matching contributions become yours. So before you switch jobs, make sure you know what percentage of your retirement savings is vested. Some plans vest immediately, but others take several years to fully vest. If you leave before matching funds have vested, you may forfeit some or all of your current employer’s matches. Contact us at (858) 371-4300 for help with retirement planning as your career progresses.

10/02/2026

If you’re sending money abroad, beware of a possible 1% excise tax. This new tax generally applies to transfers of cash, money orders or cashier’s checks from U.S. senders to foreign recipients via certain remittance transfer providers such as Western Union and MoneyGram. But transfers made via credit or debit card, bank account transfer, or digital wallet aren’t subject to the excise tax. Essentially, the tax doesn’t apply to transfers from accounts in financial institutions subject to Bank Secrecy Act requirements or to credit or debit cards issued in the U.S. So to avoid the extra expense, consider using a card or ACH transfer from your own bank account. Contact us at (858) 371-4300 to learn more.

09/30/2026

09/30/2026

As a small business owner, it’s easy to think of a succession plan as involving only two people: you and your successor. But a smooth transition may also require support from managers and other key employees. Communicating thoughtfully about your intentions and progress can help build confidence, reduce uncertainty and keep the business moving forward. Contact us at (858) 371-4300 for help addressing the tax, financial and strategic aspects of your plan.

09/29/2026

If you’re thinking about financing a new vehicle, you may be able to deduct up to $10,000 per year of interest paid. The deduction is available for certain personal auto loans originated after Dec. 31, 2024 — even if you don’t itemize deductions. Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) limits apply, and only qualifying vehicles assembled in the U.S. are eligible. Before purchasing, consider whether eligibility for the deduction should factor into your vehicle choice. We can help run the numbers. Call us at (858) 371-4300.

09/28/2026

Business owners: Are you or your employees planning to go “back to school” soon? Two types of work-related education costs may qualify for business tax breaks: 1) those required to retain an existing job, license or professional status, and 2) those directly tied to maintaining or improving skills for a current trade or business. Deductible expenses can include tuition, books, supplies and possibly travel if the primary purpose of the trip is business-related education. However, you can’t deduct costs for education that help meet the minimum qualifications for a position or to qualify for a new trade or business. Contact us at (858) 371-4300 to learn the ABCs of work-related education expense deductions.