It's not enough to call a tax authority and ask a question.  They may not be bound by the answer.  Here's the skinny in our latest video.

Your plans for your profit margin on that big job or budgeting the true cost of that big purchase can be KOed if your accounting team isn't following the plan.  Find out before it's too late.  Here's how…

Your audit results live and die based on the quality and completeness of your documentation.  Yes, those receipts are a BIG deal.  Here are a few things that cost people money.

Some people collect a certificate and think their work is done.  NOT!  Is it the RIGHT certificate?  Does it have all the information required by the taxing authority.  Here are some certificate fundamentals that can save you money (and your reputation with your client.)

The time to get ready for a sales tax audit is BEFORE you get the audit notice.  Here are a few ways to do it.  As a bonus, learn the best way to navigate the audit when it's happening.

Sales tax returns are confusing...until you know what to do.  This week, the Sales Tax Sisters cover a variety of topics related to Sales Tax Returns. 

Questions about what to report as taxable purchases when filing a sales tax return? We have you covered. Watch our latest video.

Mary and Stephanie discuss sales tax exemptions for people who repair commercial property impacted by natural disasters in Texas. Click here to watch this brief informative video.

In this video, Mary addresses line 2 on the Texas Sales & Use Tax Return ⇒ Taxable Sales.

Here's some news you can use! 

The following information is broken down by taxpayer situation in Texas.  Refer to the state taxing authority in all governing states.  States have different policies.

UPDATE: Until further notice, if your audit package is dated March 26, 2020 or later, the Comptroller's office is tolling the period to request a hearing if you don't agree with your audit result.  They will send notification when they reestablish the 60-day deadline to request a hearing and once we receive this notice, we will again update this post.  Be sure you are subscribed to our blog so you receive notification when this change has been made.

Each state keeps a database that lists people and companies that did not claim money that was legally due.  If you need some cash, you and your company may want to check with state taxing authorities to claim money that the state may be holding for you.   You can do it online.

The flip side to this statement is that companies must file reports that identify people and entities that are owed money or property and remit the items to the state taxing authority.  

This article is about a boon and a "gotcha!"  State taxing authorities may grant filing extensions.  It is highly unlikely that unclaimed property requirements will not be enforced.  It takes time to file these reports.  

When your company writes a check to anyone, i.e. an employee, vendor etc., if the person doesn't cash it, you can take the money back into income.  Right?  WRONG!

Here's some news you can use! 

The following information is broken down by taxpayer situation in Texas.  Refer to the state taxing authority in all governing states.  States have different policies.

  UPDATE:  The deadline is April 15, 2020.  Businesses may request a six-month extension by filing Form 7004 and submitting a deposit for taxes owed.  Work with your tax filer to determine your best options.

I know that you are wondering if you have the right blog.  You do!  Nothing has changed.  We do not help people with federal income tax or franchise tax matters.  Both filings do impact sales and use tax matters.  Here's how:

Warning! It is critical that you pay attention to your sales tax accrual account.  One of the first things an auditor does when reviewing company records is reconcile your sales tax accrual account.  The auditor must make sure that all sales tax collected is remitted to the state tax authority.  

 At the end of year, everyone closes the books.  Your accountant goes over the records, you explain unusual transactions, and you enter year-end and adjusting journal entries.  Everything is great and you're ready to go.  Right?!  Wrong!...very wrong!

We all go to work to make our lives and the lives of our families better.  It feels so good to know that you are accomplishing that goal.  If your goal is to expand your business by  working in a different state or territory, there are few things you need to think about. 

Congratulations! I LOVE to hear that anyone’s hard work is translating into more money.  After getting off the initial happiness high of hearing this, I go into protection mode.  What’s protection mode?  If we have ever met, you know that I guard any progress like a hawk!  I want you to keep, grow, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. 

That's right!  The picture says it all!  We are launching online classes in a few weeks.  The first class was developed for contractors with jobs in Texas.  We are going to build contractors' knowledge of Texas sales and use tax compliance from the ground up.

Nothing can kill a sugar or caffeine buzz quicker than an audit notice, right?  Not so fast!  The worst thing you can do is panic or allow an audit notice to color your day.   You've got this!!...You do!  Take a deep breath and DO NOT PANIC!