Today, America celebrates an extraordinary milestone—250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For two and a half centuries, our nation’s strength has been built by entrepreneurs, innovators, business owners, workers, and families who believed in the promise of freedom and opportunity. At Van de Ven CPAs + Business Consultants, we’re honored to […]

Newly Married? Don’t Overlook These Tax To-Dos

If you’re getting married, or were recently married, congratulations! Taxes are likely the furthest from your mind, but there are a few tax-related chores you need to consider. For example, next year, for 2026, you’ll be filing your first tax return as a married person. That could affect the amount of tax you should have […]

What 250 Years of Tax History Reveal About the US Tax Code

What 250 Years of Tax History Reveal About the US Tax Code https://bit.ly/4v8VJvy

Did You Know? You Have the Right to Challenge the IRS

It may seem like a daunting task, but you have the right to raise an objection with the IRS and receive a timely response if you disagree with its position regarding your taxes. One of the 10 fundamental rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights is the “right to challenge the IRS’s position and be […]

IRS Issues New Qualified Opportunity Zone Transition Guidance

The IRS has issued Notice 2026-40 providing transitional guidance for Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) following recent law changes. The notice clarifies that gains deferred by making qualified investments on or before Dec. 31, 2026, generally must be recognized in the tax year that includes Dec. 31, 2026. Investments made in 2027 or later will follow […]

Common bank reconciliation pitfalls to watch for

Bank reconciliation is one of the simplest — and most effective — internal controls for private businesses. Done consistently and correctly, it helps ensure your financial records are reliable and free from errors or unauthorized transactions. With today’s increased use of automated bank feeds and tools backed by artificial intelligence (AI), bank reconciliation may feel […]

IRS Releases New Opportunity Zone Guidance

Halfway Through the Year—How’s Your Tax Plan Looking?

Midyear is a good time for individuals to assess their 2026 tax situation. Start by forecasting your projected income, tax bracket and eligibility for deductions. Remember, you may claim either the standard deduction or itemize. Itemizing makes sense if your itemized deductions will exceed your standard deduction. Factors to consider may include the higher cap […]

Protect yourself from fraudsters impersonating the IRS and other tax scams

Tax scammers continue to target taxpayers through email, text messages, phone calls and regular mail. They often try to create urgency or fear to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or sending money. The IRS warns taxpayers to remain cautious because scammers continually change tactics to steal personal and financial information. IRS impersonation scams First […]

Betting on the World Cup? Know the Tax Rules

Individuals betting on the FIFA World Cup need to understand the potential tax obligations. Gambling winnings are considered taxable income. As such, they’re subject to federal rates up to 37%, and state income tax may also apply. Losses can be claimed as federal itemized deductions, limited to 90% of losses and capped at winnings. Wagers […]