Having a Financial Plan for the Major Stages in Your Life

Having a Financial Plan for the Major Stages in Your Life

There are many reasons why hiring a tax professional is necessary to help assist with the financial challenges in all stages of your life, both personal and business.

Starting a business

This is one of the most exciting life changes, where an emphasis on starting and operating a successful business enterprise can be quite daunting without some assistance from a professional. Starting your own business is one of the most intricate, complicated financial endeavors and professional help is greatly advised. From the start, you must get advice on the best form of business for you and what information is necessary to file business tax returns and learn government-required accounting practices for financial reporting and for your payroll processing and payroll tax payments.

Separation of business from personal income and losses can affect your business income taxes and/or your personal tax liabilities which will be dependent on what kind of company you start.  Setting up, and using an accounting system requires advice from a professional and can help you get the right kind of management information you need to be successful. All of these business financial tasks can be overwhelming, but manageable with the right CPA.  

Marriage

Congratulations, you now have a partner that will be by your side through the myriad of financial decisions. Each couple will have different issues regarding taxes, and financial decisions. Different tax planning situations will occur as each of your life stages occurs in your marriage. From babies to houses, new careers and lost jobs, and whatever else, a CPA can take these changes into account and help you plan and succeed with your financial goals. 

A New Addition to the Family 

Whether it is the birth of a child or an addition to the family by adoption, you may be able to use some tax breaks. Tax savings can include such credits as the childcare credit and contributions to 529 plans. Get with a CPA to learn what tax breaks you can take advantage of and have that CPA keep you up to date on current tax laws.

Retirement 

When your income source changes from a job to social security and retirement plan distributions, your tax situation will also change. Some IRS regulations require a certain amount to be pulled of your retirement accounts at a particular age, and some of those withdrawals may or not be taxed. Professionals will help you navigate your new financial situation and keep you up-to-date on tax laws for retirees. 

Divorce or Separation

With the dissolution of a marriage comes a slew of tax decisions – child support, alimony, asset splitting, property taxes – just to name a few. Guidance from a tax professional will give you the financial decisions needed to be addressed during this life stage. 

Inheritance

Planning for your loved ones when you are no longer here requires the skills of professionals such as a lawyer, financial planner and an accountant. If you are an executor and/or a beneficiary of an inheritance, your CPA can guide you on what tax filings are required for local agencies, state and federal. 

Death of a spouse

Dealing with a spouse’s death and having to deal with their finances, estate and/or trust filing requirements adds more stress during a very difficult time. Will you qualify for your late spouse’s benefits? How much is owed in estate or death taxes? A CPA can guide you through this difficult time. 

Long-term illness

As we get older, the threat of chronic illnesses increases. Planning for such a life change requires the help of several professionals including your tax advisor. A trusted CPA can be a safeguard against fraud and stress.

No matter what life stage you found yourself, Everfore CPAs & Advisors can help assist you with your business and personal tax planning during all stages of your life.