When most of us think of taxes, we picture paperwork, spreadsheets, and a mountain of forms to file by April 15th. Taxes can feel like the ultimate bureaucratic headache—mundane, necessary, but hardly revolutionary. Yet, history shows us that taxes have often been at the heart of dramatic change,
Accounting for Churches and Nonprofits
Accounting for churches and nonprofits isn’t just a variation of business accounting—it’s a fundamentally different world. Unlike for-profit businesses that focus on generating revenue and maximizing profit, nonprofits and churches exist to serve a mission, not a bottom line. This means their
New Business Applications Slow in Seattle
Seattle, once a thriving hub for entrepreneurial ventures, has seen a marked decline in new business applications in recent years. In 2022, there were just 7,710 new business applications, a sharp 42% drop from the pre-pandemic annual average of 13,305. This slowdown reflects broader challenges in
Financial Tips for Realtors: the Highs & Lows
Being a realtor demands resilience and sharp financial management. The ever-changing housing market can lead to significant income fluctuations, making it essential to plan wisely for both boom years and lean times. Here are some strategies to help you thrive through the real estate
Reasons To File Your Taxes Early
Many taxpayers delay filing until the April 15th deadline, assuming there’s no harm in waiting. However, filing your taxes early offers several advantages, from faster refunds to better financial planning. Here are the top reasons why you should consider filing your taxes as soon as possible this
Seattle’s Financial District: Challenges and Opportunities for SMBs
Seattle’s financial district continues to face significant challenges, as high office vacancy rates and rising commercial real estate loan defaults create uncertainty for the city’s downtown core. According to recent data, Seattle ranks among the most vulnerable financial districts in the US,
Tax Deductible Expenses for Rental Properties: What You Need to Know
If you’re renting out a property for income, it’s essential to track and categorize certain fees and expenses accurately for tax purposes. Understanding which costs are deductible—and how to allocate them properly—can save you money and keep you compliant with tax regulations. Let’s break down some
Standard Deduction: Married Filing Separately vs Married Filing Jointly
The standard deduction is a critical component of your federal income tax return, reducing your taxable income and potentially lowering the amount of taxes you owe. For married couples, understanding how the standard deduction differs between "Married Filing Jointly" (MFJ) and "Married Filing