Wealth Advisory
Asset Sale vs. Stock Sale: Key Differences When Selling a Business
Selling a business can take many forms. Some owners transfer shares to employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Others stage a management buyout or pass control gradually to family. But in most private company sales, the structure falls into one of two broad categories: asset sale or stock sale. The distinction matters. Each […]
From the Desk of Kevin Hodson
As summer winds down and routines pick back up, we’re seeing the same shift in the markets—a return to activity and volatility after a relatively quiet season. September often brings movement, and this year is no exception. Between geopolitical developments and an upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, there’s a lot in play that could impact portfolios. […]
Businesses See Relief as 1099 Thresholds Increase; Prepare Now for Year-End Deadlines
Signed into law on July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act brings welcome changes for businesses, contractors, and online sellers by raising reporting thresholds for Forms 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, and 1099-K. Starting in 2026, thresholds for 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC will rise from $600 to $2,000, and 1099-K will return to $20,000 and 200 transactions […]
Why Complex Trusts Matter for High-Net-Worth Investors Under OBBB
A provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act has renewed interest in a once-overlooked planning strategy: the use of a complex trust as a standalone tax-paying entity. While the concept is not new, recent updates including expanded deductions for real estate taxes make the structure more practical and more compelling, particularly for high […]
OBBB Creates More Deduction Room for Middle-Income Filers
For years, the state and local tax deduction has been an important consideration for taxpayers in high-tax states. In 2017, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set a $10,000 cap, which limited the ability of many individuals and pass-through entity shareholders to reduce federal taxable income. The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act, signed into […]
Why More Business Owners Are Turning to ESOPs for Succession
More business owners are turning to employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) to ensure continuity, reward long-serving team members, and transition out with intention. Unlike sales to outside buyers, ESOPs keep ownership within the company, preserving institutional knowledge and culture. Beyond continuity, ESOPs provide a pathway to liquidity that aligns with both financial goals and legacy. […]
Buy-Sell Agreements, Life Insurance & Business Valuation: What Owners Must Know
Business owners are often reluctant to plan for the eventual transition of ownership, even though the need for succession is inevitable, whether it comes through retirement or unforeseen circumstances. Too often, the process is delayed because it feels premature, uncomfortable, or overwhelming. Some believe that having life insurance or a signed agreement in place is […]
AAF Wealth Management Q2 2025 Market Insights
In an ongoing commitment to keep you abreast on a range of issues that might affect your business and personal finances, AAFCPAs is pleased to share Q2 2025 Market Insights published by AAF Wealth Management, part of the AAFCPAs family of companies. This provides investors with an understanding of what’s driven performance of late. With […]
IRS to End Paper Checks in 2025
Editor’s Note: This article was updated in September 2025 for accuracy and relevance. The IRS has confirmed that paper tax refund checks for individual taxpayers will begin to be phased out on September 30, 2025. Detailed guidance for 2025 tax returns will be published before the 2026 filing season. Taxpayers should continue using existing forms […]