Blog
Crop Insurance: Just the Facts
As the nation’s crop insurers prepare for the Farm Bill and funding deliberations in the future, National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS) has released a detailed question-and-answer resource laying out the facts about crop insurance and dispelling some of the most...
Data Shift to Lift US Economy by 3%
Billions of dollars in intangible assets, such as film royalties and research and development investment, will be incorporated into calculating the gross domestic product starting in July, making the U.S. economy 3% bigger. It will be the biggest change in the...
Grain Analyst 2013 Corn Outlook
The 2013 Corn market enters the year with historical importance. After a year of drought, low yields and record high corn prices, the US needs a good corn crop more than ever. The chart below shows the US corn yield trends. As you can see, we have had three poor...
WeatherBug Releases Summer 2013 Forecast
Following last year’s below-average rainfalls and above-average temperatures that brought drought conditions to nearly two-thirds of the U.S., the WeatherBug Meteorology Team at Earth Networks is releasing its U.S. Summer 2013 Forecast. For summer 2013, forecasters...
Tax Considerations When Dividing Property in a Divorce
The emotional aspects of a divorce often interfere with planning for the efficient distribution of the marital estate. The shock and ill feelings may create a barrier between spouses that prevents even discussing issues. Tax practitioners need to know how to...
Top Ten Tips on Making IRA Contributions
IRS Tax Tip 2013-50 The IRS has 10 important tips for you about making IRA contributions and setting aside money for your retirement in an Individual Retirement Arrangement. 1. You must be under age 70 1/2 at the end of the tax year in order to contribute to a...
New Rules for Roth 401K Conversions
New rules for in-plan Roth 401(k) conversions have opened up some interesting new planning possibilities - and although the conversions come with a few pitfalls, some clients will find them to be a valuable option. The new tax deal (known formally as the American...
Get Credit for Making Your Home Energy Efficient
IRS Tax Tip 2013-48 If you are planning on making your home energy efficient, or did last year, you may qualify for a tax credit on your federal income tax return. Here is some basic information about home energy credits that you should know to allow you to get...
Nine Tips on Deducting Charitable Contributions
IRS Tax Tip 2013-45 Giving to charity may make you feel good and help you lower your tax bill. The IRS offers these nine tips to help ensure your charitable contributions pay off on your tax return. 1. If you want a tax deduction, you must donate to a qualified...