Q: What do I need to know about the new tax rules?

 

A: Congress enacted the biggest tax reform law in 30 years, one that will make fundamental changes in the way you and your business calculate your federal income tax bill and the amount of federal tax you will pay. Since most of the changes will go into effect next year, there’s still a narrow window of time before your final filing for Tuesday, April 17.

Tax software companies have been creating comparative models with the ability to project how the new rules will affect your 2018 tax return using 2017 data. I encourage you to get a final draft of your 2017 business and individual income tax returns prepared so you can use the information to enter into the 2018 tax projection software of your choice.

Here are some key points to discuss with your CPA:

The entertainment deduction: For decades, business owners have been able to deduct 50% of the cost of entertainment directly related to or associated with running their businesses. For example, if you took a client to a nightclub after a business meeting, you could deduct 50% of the cost as long as strict substantiation requirements were met. Under the new law, there is no deduction for such expenses. However, taxpayers are still generally able to deduct 50% of the food and beverage expenses associated with operating their trade or business (e.g., meals consumed by employees on work travel).

A new deduction for the self-employed: Self-employed taxpayers can deduct up to 20% of qualified business income from a sole proprietorship, partnership or S corporation. There are a few limitations placed on the deductions, so ask your CPA to help you better understand this new deduction by filing time. This is one deduction you will need guidance on, since it’s related to compensation paid to various employees in your organization.

The new depreciation law: A 100% first-year deduction for the adjusted basis will be allowed for qualified property acquired and placed in service after Sept. 27, 2017. Alert your tax preparer of any assets you purchased during this time period in 2017.

You should make every effort to prepare your taxes on time this year so you can take the data and model your 2018 estimated tax impact through software provided by your CPA. By being proactive, you’ll understand early in 2018 how the new tax laws will affect you.