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
Handling the Tax Implications of Retainers for Law Firms
Let’s face it—as a lawyer, you probably didn’t dive into law school to manage numbers and financial records. But proper legal accounting, especially when it comes to handling client retainers, is a non-negotiable part of running a successful and compliant law practice. Mishandling client funds can
Can You Deduct Rental Expenses with No Rental Income?
As a landlord, reporting rental income accurately on your tax return is a legal obligation, and understanding the associated deductions can significantly impact your financial outcomes. Rental income encompasses more than just the monthly payments you receive from tenants—it also includes advance
Obtaining a Business License in Kirkland
Starting a business in Kirkland, Washington, is an exciting venture, but before you open your doors, it’s essential to secure the necessary legal permissions. A business license is not just a formality; it’s a legal requirement to operate within the city limits or provide services to Kirkland
What is an Employer Identification Number (EIN) & How to Apply
If you're starting a business, you may have come across the term EIN, or Employer Identification Number. But what exactly is it, and how does it fit into your business operations? Whether you’re a sole proprietor just starting out, or an established business scaling up, understanding the EIN is
Starker v. United States: Section 1031 Exchanges
Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code has long been a cornerstone of tax planning for real estate investors, enabling them to defer capital gains taxes when exchanging like-kind properties. While this provision encourages reinvestment and stimulates economic growth, it also requires strict