The standard business mileage rate increased in 2025
The optional standard mileage rate used to calculate the tax-deductible cost of operating a business vehicle increased in 2025. The standard mileage rate is adjusted annually and calculated based on driving costs, including the price of gas. Contact the tax advisors at SEK with questions about tax-deductions.
Casino nights aren’t all fun and games for nonprofit events
Charitable fundraisers that feature games of chance help nonprofits raise millions of dollars every year. However, if you regularly host gaming fundraisers, you may be subject to unrelated business income tax. And wagering excise and occupational taxes could apply in some circumstances. Contact the nonprofit advisors at SEK for more information.
Estate planning for non-U.S. citizens requires extra care
If you or your spouse is a noncitizen, special rules apply that require additional planning when it comes to your estate. A significant difference between U.S. citizens and noncitizens, and a potential tax trap for the unwary, is that the marital deduction isn’t available for transfers to noncitizens. If you or your spouse is a noncitizen, talk to SEK's estate planning advisors about the potential estate planning ramifications.
Small business strategy: A heavy vehicle plus a home office equals tax savings
Your small business may be eligible for big first-year Section 179 depreciation tax deductions for new and used heavy SUVs, pickups and vans placed in service in 2025. You must use the vehicle more than 50% for business. The write-off will reduce your federal income tax and self-employment tax bill, if applicable. Contact the business tax advisors at SEK with your tax deduction questions.
Answers to your questions about taking withdrawals from IRAs
You can’t keep funds in your traditional IRA indefinitely. You must start taking withdrawals from a traditional IRA (including a SIMPLE IRA or SEP IRA) when you reach age 73. However, if you take money out of a traditional IRA before age 59½, you may be subject to a 10% penalty tax and income tax on the distribution. Contact SEK's tax advisors and retirement planning advisors with any IRA questions.
New annual report requirement for Pennsylvania businesses in 2025
Starting in 2025, Pennsylvania businesses will need to comply with a new annual report requirement introduced by the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Estate planning Q&A: Guardianship
If you’re the parent of a newborn, toddler or older child, you may be thinking about naming a guardian for him or her. This can be a difficult decision, especially if you have many choices or, on the other hand, no one you can trust. Read here for answers to common questions about guardianship. Contact the estate planning advisors at SEK for further guidance.
Tax-wise ways to save for college
As higher education costs continue to rise, you may be concerned about how to save and pay for college. Fortunately, several tools and strategies offered in the U.S. tax code may help ease the financial burden. Below is an overview of some of the most beneficial tax breaks and planning options for funding your child’s or grandchild’s education. Contact SEK's tax advisors for more info.
How Section 1231 gains and losses affect business asset sales
When selling business assets, understanding the tax implications is crucial. One area to focus on is Section 1231 of the tax code, which governs the treatment of gains and losses. Gains and losses from selling Sec. 1231 assets receive favorable federal income tax treatment. Contact the business advisors at SEK to help you plan the timing of gains and losses for optimal tax results.
One from many: Why your nonprofit might want to federate
Federated nonprofits are single corporate entities with multiple chapters. There’s no one definitive legal structure for federated organizations. But local chapters generally operate independently and pay an amount to their national office in exchange for the name, branding and other benefits. Advantages can include economies of scale; a single, distinct brand; higher visibility; shared resources; and greater chapter-based accountability. Contact SEK's nonprofit advisors to learn more.