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Moved Out? Reclaim Your Full Security Deposit!
The Deposit Dilemma – Your Money, Our Fight That security deposit—often one or two month's rent—is your hard-earned money. Yet, far too often, landlords drag their feet or invent reasons for deductions, hoping you'll give up. You deserve every penny back, and with the right strategy, you can get it. While state laws govern the specifics, the proactive steps you take in the first 60 days after moving out are crucial. But what if the thought of confronting your landlord or na

Michael Jesse
Oct 213 min read


Top Three Strategies to Consider When Someone Owes You Money Without Going to Small Claims Court
Discover three effective strategies to handle situations when someone owes you money without resorting to small claims court. Learn how to manage debts amicably.

Michael Jesse
Oct 143 min read


Maximizing Your P&L Statement
Unlock the full potential of your P&L statement. Discover how to maximize your P&L for better financial health and smarter business decisions today.

Michael Jesse
Oct 143 min read


Everything You Need to Know About Enrolled Agents and Their Impact on Your Finances
Discover how an enrolled agent can transform your financial outlook. Learn why hiring an enrolled agent is essential for tax planning and representation.

Michael Jesse
Oct 74 min read


Unlocking the Tax Benefits of Cost Segregation for Your Commercial Property
Discover how Cost Segregation can unlock significant tax benefits for your commercial property. Learn how Cost Segregation boosts cash flow today!

Michael Jesse
Oct 73 min read


Understanding IRS Tax Audits: Procedures, Statistics, and Preparation Tips
Navigating the world of taxes can be daunting, especially with the possibility of an IRS tax audit looming over you. The word audit often triggers feelings of anxiety and confusion for many business owners and individuals. However, understanding what an IRS tax audit is, who is likely to be selected for one, and how to adequately prepare can make the process less intimidating and even beneficial. This blog post provides an in-depth overview of IRS tax audits.

Michael Jesse
Sep 274 min read


Recover Your Money After Being Scammed
Scams are on the rise, impacting millions of people worldwide. In the U.S. alone, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that consumers lost over $5.8 billion to scams in 2021, with reports increasing by 70% from the previous year. If you become a victim of a scam, acting quickly is crucial. This blog post outlines actionable steps to recover your money, alert the right agencies, and protect yourself from future scams.

Michael Jesse
Sep 274 min read


Effective Revenue Growth Strategies and Essential Professionals for Your Business Success
Boosting revenue is crucial for business growth. Key strategies include refining pricing approaches, expanding product offerings through cross-selling and upselling, and pursuing strategic acquisitions. Enhancing customer experience through feedback and staff training can also drive loyalty and sales. Collaborating with professionals like accountants and lawyers ensures financial stability and legal compliance, which are essential for successful revenue growth.

Michael Jesse
Sep 203 min read


Risks of Choosing the Wrong Tax Preparation Company
Choosing the right tax preparation company is crucial for your financial health. A qualified preparer can save you money and reduce the risk of audits. Beware of red flags like lack of credentials, unrealistic promises, and pressure tactics. To find a trustworthy service, ask for recommendations, check reviews, verify qualifications, and schedule consultations. Taking the time to select the right preparer can lead to significant benefits and peace of mind.

Michael Jesse
Sep 203 min read


Beyond the Return: 3 Ways Your Business Is Leaving Tax Capital on the Table
Don't let valuable capital expire. This expert guide dives into 3 crucial ways businesses miss out on tax recovery opportunities, including R&D tax credits and cost segregation studies. Learn how to identify and reclaim hidden financial assets from prior tax filings to drive sustainable growth. Perfect for business owners, CFOs, and tax professionals seeking advanced tax optimization strategies.

Michael Jesse
Sep 173 min read


Decoding Financial Jargon: Essential Terms Everyone Should Know in Banking and Investing
Understanding financial terms is key to making informed decisions in banking, investing, insurance, and contracts. Essential terms include APR (the annual cost of loans), FDIC (which protects bank deposits), diversification (spreading investments to reduce risk), and liability (legal obligations). Mastering these concepts can empower you to navigate your financial journey confidently and make choices that align with your goals.

Michael Jesse
Sep 143 min read


Mastering Your Finances: Understanding Cash Statements, Charge Accounts, and Your Balance Sheet Guide
Managing finances can be overwhelming, whether for individuals or businesses. Key concepts include the Statement of Cash, which outlines cash inflows and outflows, and the Chart of Accounts (CoA), which categorizes financial transactions. Tracking income, expenses, assets, and liabilities is vital for financial health. Methods include creating a CoA, which helps organize finances, and utilizing financial software to simplify tracking and reporting.

Michael Jesse
Sep 74 min read


Why Are Accounting and Taxes So Hard?
Accounting and taxes are difficult due to ever-changing laws, burdensome record-keeping, and confusing jargon. These hurdles lead to stress, costly mistakes, and missed deductions. 2nd Look Services helps you navigate the mess, providing financial clarity and peace of mind without the hassle and regret.

Michael Jesse
Aug 314 min read


Navigating the Complexities of Lending Money to Loved Ones
Lending money to friends or family can strain relationships if expectations are unclear. Establishing a borrower contract outlines the loan amount, repayment terms, and interest rates, ensuring both parties understand the agreement. Open communication is vital to prevent misunderstandings. Legal aspects must be considered, like state laws on written agreements and interest limits. Best practices include setting boundaries and being prepared for varied repayment outcomes.

Michael Jesse
Aug 243 min read


Understanding Cash vs Accrual Accounting: Advantages, Tax Strategies, and Fun Recordkeeping Tips
In the financial landscape, understanding accounting methods is vital for business owners and high-earning individuals. Two primary...

Michael Jesse
Aug 204 min read


Mastering Recordkeeping
Effective recordkeeping is vital for financial management, whether for personal or business finances. Start by establishing a budget that tracks income and expenses, categorizing them into fixed and variable costs. Use apps like Mint for personal tracking or QuickBooks for businesses. Understand tax-deductible expenses, such as medical costs and operating expenses. Stay organized, review your budget regularly, and consider seeking professional advice for optimized financial h

Michael Jesse
Aug 103 min read


Top Three Overlooked Business Income Tax Deductions and Credits You Should Know
Many business owners miss out on significant tax savings by overlooking certain deductions and credits. Key deductions include the home office deduction, which allows for expenses related to using a home space for business; vehicle expenses, where actual expenses or standard mileage can be claimed; and the Section 179 deduction, permitting immediate expensing of qualifying equipment purchases. Keeping detailed records and consulting a tax professional can help maximize these
Michael Jesse
Jul 133 min read
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