317-398-9753
[email protected]
Your Business. Your Family. Our Priority.
A company owners’ potential for personal financial security usually depends on the success of the business. Our commitment and responsibility is to help keep your business running smoothly and to help achieve your personal financial goals. Whether you are a business or an individual, our specialized staff will provide you with assistance in all your tax, reporting, financial and business affairs.
We're proud members of:
Brammer & Yeend is an independently owned and operated member firm of CPA Connect, a companion association to CPAmerica International
Financial information and reporting should not be a diversion for business owners, instead, financial information should be accurate, available, and insightful. We leverage experience and technology to provide business owners with dynamic resources and management tools.
Our personal services are designed to help busy, successful families manage their finances and grow their wealth with confidence and peace of mind. We do this by working together with our business solutions, allowing us to partner with clients and coordinate business and personal planning in order to meet their most important goals.
We strive to provide excellent service and solutions that fit our client’s specific needs and are industry appropriate. Our experienced CPAs have worked with clients in a variety of industries and understand the intricacies of each and apply the best solution possible. Over the years we have serviced clients in industries including agribusiness, retail, construction, manufacturing, food & beverage and many more. Below are some of our industries where we have specialized experience and expertise.
A tax refund provides a welcome financial boost, but instead of viewing this as a windfall to splurge on non-essential items on your wish list, consider smarter strategies that can significantly enhance your financial health. Here are some effective ways to utilize your tax refund to boost savings, pay off debt, and ultimately strengthen your financial position.
One of the smartest ways to use your tax refund is to build or replenish your emergency fund. Aim to save for three to six months’ worth of living expenses in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or medical emergencies. If your emergency fund is lacking, allocating a portion of your refund to this savings account can offer peace of mind and safeguard against future financial shocks.
Another smart move is to tackle your high-interest debt—especially if you carry balances on credit cards or personal loans. The interest on these debts can accumulate quickly, making it challenging to make headway on principal balances. By using your tax refund to pay down or eliminate this debt, you can save significantly on interest payments and improve your overall financial situation.
Focus on the highest interest rates first; this approach is often referred to as the “avalanche method” and can lead to faster long-term savings. However, if you think quick wins will keep your momentum going, consider using the “snowball method,” where you pay off the debt with the smallest balance first, then redirect the amount you were paying towards that debt to the next smallest debt, repeating the process until all debts are paid off.
Using your tax refund to boost your retirement savings is a smart, tax-efficient strategy that enhances long-term financial security. If you haven’t maxed out your annual contributions, consider investing in a tax-advantaged account like a 401(k) or traditional IRA. These contributions not only help grow your retirement fund through compound interest but may also lower your taxable income, reducing your tax liability for the current year. By prioritizing strategic, tax-advantaged investments, you can make the most of your refund while strengthening your financial future.
If you’re considering furthering your education or developing new skills, allocating your tax refund toward a college fund or professional development courses can yield significant returns. Higher education or specialized training can enhance your career prospects, potentially leading to higher income levels in the long run. Investing in yourself by taking steps to increase your earning potential is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.
If you own a home or car, consider using part of your tax refund for necessary repairs or energy-efficient upgrades. While it may not be an immediate financial boost, investing in maintenance costs, like installing a new furnace or fixing your brakes, will help maintain value and functionality, and you’ll avoid bigger problems down the road.
Receiving a tax refund can feel like a financial gift, but the way you use those funds can help create a stronger financial foundation, leading to greater financial security.
The Social Security Fairness Act of 2025 is a significant policy change aimed at addressing long-standing concerns regarding the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This legislation seeks to restore benefits to retirees who were previously affected by these provisions—public sector retirees, including teachers, firefighters, police officers, and federal employees. Many of these retirees are now eligible for retroactive Social Security payments. However, while receiving a lump-sum back payment may seem like a financial windfall, it can have important tax implications.
Here’s what retirees need to know about the potential tax consequences, income shifts, and Medicare considerations related to these retroactive payments.
Social Security benefits are subject to federal income tax based on your provisional income, which includes:
If your income exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. Receiving a lump-sum retroactive payment under the Social Security Fairness Act could push your income higher, leading to greater tax liability.
For example, if you were already near the 50% taxability threshold, a large back payment might increase the portion of benefits subject to tax.
Retroactive Social Security payments are considered income for the year they are received, not for the years they were originally due. This means:
Tax Planning Tip: The IRS allows retirees to use a lump-sum election method, which spreads the tax impact over multiple years instead of treating it all as current income. Consulting a tax professional can help determine the best approach for minimizing your tax liability.
Social Security payments are linked to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, which are based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). A lump-sum Social Security payment could result in higher Medicare premiums due to:
If your income increases significantly due to a retroactive Social Security payment, you might temporarily pay higher Medicare costs—even if your income decreases the following year.
While Social Security benefits are taxed at the federal level, state taxation varies widely. Some states fully exempt Social Security income, while others partially tax it or follow federal tax rules.
Check your state’s Social Security tax policy to understand potential liabilities, especially if you live in a state that partially or fully taxes benefits.
To avoid surprises, retirees who expect a lump-sum Social Security payment under the Fairness Act should consider the following:
If you’re receiving Social Security benefits and think the Social Security Fairness Act will impact your taxes, a tax professional can help you navigate these changes and develop strategies to manage your increased benefits. By planning strategically, you may be able to maximize your benefits while minimizing tax surprises.
As a small business owner, tax deductions can significantly lower your taxable income and increase your bottom line. In 2025, key tax-saving opportunities include Section 179 deductions, bonus depreciation, and the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit. Understanding these deductions and recent updates can help you make strategic financial decisions.
Section 179 allows businesses to immediately deduct the cost of qualifying equipment and property rather than depreciating it over several years. This deduction is particularly valuable for small businesses that invest in equipment, vehicles, and software.
For the tax year 2025, the Section 179 limit is expected to remain at $1.25 million, with a phaseout threshold of $3.13 million in total equipment purchases. This means if your business spends more than $3.13 million on qualifying property, the deduction begins to phase out dollar for dollar.
Eligible assets include:
To claim the Section 179 deduction, businesses must:
Bonus depreciation has been a significant tax incentive for businesses since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which temporarily increased it to 100%. However, it is gradually phasing out as planned after 2025. The rate in 2025 is 80%. It will be 60% in 2026, 40% in 2027, 20% in 2028, and fully phased out in 2029.
Unlike Section 179, bonus depreciation is not limited by a spending cap and can create a net operating loss (NOL) that may be carried forward. It applies to:
Given the upcoming reduction, businesses planning major capital expenditures should consider purchasing assets in 2025 to take advantage of the 80% deduction before it drops further next year.
The IRS’s updated Form 6765 introduces expanded reporting requirements that will impact how businesses document and claim the R&D tax credit in 2025. These changes aim to improve transparency but require businesses to adjust their reporting processes to remain compliant.
Businesses must now provide more qualitative and quantitative details about their R&D activities. This includes identifying and describing specific business components and projects tied to the credit rather than aggregating expenses under broad categories.
The new requirements mandate a more precise classification of R&D-related wages. Businesses must separate:
Companies without a clear wage-tracking system may need to implement new payroll and documentation processes to meet these requirements.
With the phased implementation of these new rules, businesses should use this transition period to evaluate their documentation processes. Failing to meet the latest standards could expose companies to compliance risks or IRS audits. An internal audit can help identify gaps in recordkeeping and allow time for adjustments before the rules fully take effect.
With these new reporting, tracking, and compliance changes, businesses should take proactive steps to align with the IRS’s evolving requirements. Consulting a tax professional and updating internal systems can help maximize R&D tax credit benefits while avoiding potential compliance pitfalls.
The Trump tariff policies on major trade partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China, could have significant economic implications for U.S. consumers. With a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, and an additional 10% tariff on Canadian energy exports, businesses and everyday shoppers may face rising costs. While tariffs are often used to safeguard domestic industries, they can also lead to higher prices on essential products and services. This article explores the potential impact of these trade policies and what they mean for American consumers.
Tariffs are import taxes placed on foreign goods to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on overseas suppliers. While they aim to protect domestic industries, they also increase the cost of imported products. Contrary to common belief, foreign exporters do not pay these tariffs. Instead, U.S. companies that import these goods must cover the added costs, which often trickle down to consumers through higher retail prices.
Tariffs create a chain reaction that leads to rising prices across multiple industries, ultimately affecting consumers. When businesses pay more for imported goods due to tariff increases, they often raise prices to offset these higher costs. As a result, shoppers may see price hikes on vehicles, electronics, household appliances, and other imported products.
Beyond direct import costs, tariffs also impact domestic manufacturing. Many U.S. companies depend on imported raw materials such as steel and aluminum. When these materials become more expensive, the cost of American-made products rises, making essential goods less affordable for consumers.
International trade tensions further contribute to price increases. Other countries often impose retaliatory measures on American exports in response to U.S. tariffs. China, for example, has already enacted tariffs on U.S. goods, making it more expensive for American businesses to sell products abroad. This disruption can lead to economic instability and additional price pressures within the U.S. market.
Energy and transportation costs also rise due to tariffs. The 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources could increase fuel prices, affecting shipping and delivery expenses. As transportation costs climb, prices for everyday essentials like groceries, clothing, and household items may follow suit.
The cumulative effect tariffs could have on domestic manufacturing, international trade tensions, and energy and transportation costs means that tariffs, while designed to protect domestic industries, often result in higher costs for businesses and consumers.
Although tariffs often increase consumer prices, they can also provide strategic economic advantages. By making imported goods more expensive, tariffs encourage consumers and businesses to purchase domestically produced products. This shift can stimulate growth in U.S. manufacturing, support local industries, and create new job opportunities.
Beyond bolstering domestic production, tariffs can be a powerful tool in trade negotiations. When leveraged effectively, they can pressure foreign governments into agreeing to more favorable trade agreements, potentially reducing unfair trade practices and improving market access for American businesses.
Tariffs may also help reduce the U.S. trade deficit. By discouraging imports, these policies can keep more financial resources circulating within the U.S. economy, potentially strengthening overall economic stability. The impact of tariffs may vary from industry to industry, but they remain a key element of international trade strategies designed to protect national economic interests.
The 2025 tax season has arrived. From the federal income tax filing deadline to due dates for extensions and quarterly estimated tax payments, being aware of these important dates will help you stay organized for a reduced-stress tax season. In this article, we’ll outline key tax deadlines to help you avoid late fees and penalties.
The deadline to file your federal income tax return for the 2025 tax year is April 15, 2025. The IRS provides an automatic extension to June 16, 2025, for U.S. taxpayers living abroad to file and pay. The IRS determines the timeliness of your electronic return based on the date and time it is transmitted in your local time zone. For those filing paper returns, the IRS considers the submission on time if it is correctly addressed, includes sufficient postage, and is postmarked by the deadline.
If you file electronically, ensure your return is transmitted by 11:59 p.m. local time on April 15. Certain taxpayers, such as members of the military or those affected by natural disasters, may qualify for automatic extensions. Check your eligibility for extensions and ensure all filing and payment deadlines are met to avoid interest and penalties.
Taxpayers who e-file and select direct deposit usually receive their refund within 21 days of submitting their return. Filing a paper tax return, however, will increase processing times, with refunds often delayed by four weeks or more. Opt for electronic filing and direct deposit for the quickest and most efficient refund process.
Not filing your federal tax return by the due date can lead to a monthly penalty of 5% on any outstanding taxes, capped at 25% of the total unpaid balance. In contrast, if you submit your return but fail to pay the full amount owed—or if you receive a filing extension—you’ll typically face a lesser penalty of 0.5% per month on the unpaid taxes. To reduce the impact of penalties and interest, file your return on time and pay as much of your tax liability as possible by the deadline.
Submitting a tax extension request by April 15, 2025, gives you until October 15, 2025, to file your federal tax return. However, an extension only postpones the filing deadline—it does not extend the timeframe to pay any taxes owed. You will still be required to pay the full amount due, or a reasonable estimate, by the original April 15, 2025 deadline. Neglecting to pay by this date will lead to interest fees and penalties that continue to grow until the balance is settled. To avoid additional costs, make sure to meet the payment deadline, even if you file later.
Employers must issue W-2 forms to employees by January 31 each year. For freelancers, independent contractors, and individuals with income from non-traditional sources, 1099 forms are typically sent out by February 15.
If you earn income outside of traditional employment, such as from self-employment, freelancing, or other untaxed sources, you are generally urged to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS. Alternatively, you can choose to make a single annual payment. For the 2025 tax year, the yearly payment is due by April 15, and the quarterly payment deadlines are as follows:
Following this IRS payment schedule helps you avoid penalties and interest charges for underpayment.
Maximizing your 401(k) retirement savings is key to building a secure financial future. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to revisit your retirement strategy and ensure you take full advantage of available opportunities. Read on for actionable strategies to help you effectively grow your 401(k) savings this year.
One of the easiest ways to boost your 401(k) savings is to take full advantage of your employer’s matching contributions. Many companies match employee contributions to a certain percentage of their salary to incentivize retirement savings. If you’re not taking full advantage of this, you’re leaving money on the table. For example, if your employer matches 50% of contributions up to 5% of your salary, contribute at least 5%. If possible, adjust your budget and automate your contributions to ensure you’re consistently maxing out your limit.
Your 401(k) investments can significantly impact your savings growth. It’s essential to periodically review your portfolio and adjust based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions.
Consider the following steps:
Consider scheduling a semi-annual or annual review of your 401(k) to stay proactive and adjust your strategy as needed.
If you’re 50 or older, you’re eligible for catch-up contributions, which allow you to contribute more to your 401(k) each year. In 2025, the standard contribution limit is $23,500, with an additional $7,500 authorized for catch-up contributions, bringing the total allowable contribution to $31,000.
This strategy is beneficial if you’re behind on savings or want to capitalize on tax-deferred growth in the final years before retirement. Even small increases in contributions can compound considerably over time.
Retirement policies and contribution limits can change annually. Staying informed ensures you know of opportunities, such as increased limits or new tax incentives, that could impact your savings strategy.
Keeping an open line of communication is important to us. We invite you to reach out to us either by phone, email, or this form to ask questions, request an appointment or talk about any finance-related matter that comes to your mind.
317-398-9753
8 Public Square
Shelbyville, IN, 46176
Your Business. Your Family. Our Priority.
A company owners’ potential for personal financial security usually depends on the success of the business. Our commitment and responsibility is to help keep your business running smoothly and to help achieve your personal financial goals. Whether you are a business or an individual, our specialized staff will provide you with assistance in all your tax, reporting, financial and business affairs.
We're proud members of:
Brammer & Yeend is an independently owned and operated member firm of CPA Connect, a companion association to CPAmerica International
Financial information and reporting should not be a diversion for business owners, instead, financial information should be accurate, available, and insightful. We leverage experience and technology to provide business owners with dynamic resources and management tools.
Our personal services are designed to help busy, successful families manage their finances and grow their wealth with confidence and peace of mind. We do this by working together with our business solutions, allowing us to partner with clients and coordinate business and personal planning in order to meet their most important goals.
We strive to provide excellent service and solutions that fit our client’s specific needs and are industry appropriate. Our experienced CPAs have worked with clients in a variety of industries and understand the intricacies of each and apply the best solution possible. Over the years we have serviced clients in industries including agribusiness, retail, construction, manufacturing, food & beverage and many more. Below are some of our industries where we have specialized experience and expertise.
A tax refund provides a welcome financial boost, but instead of viewing this as a windfall to splurge on non-essential items on your wish list, consider smarter strategies that can significantly enhance your financial health. Here are some effective ways to utilize your tax refund to boost savings, pay off debt, and ultimately strengthen your financial position.
One of the smartest ways to use your tax refund is to build or replenish your emergency fund. Aim to save for three to six months’ worth of living expenses in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss or medical emergencies. If your emergency fund is lacking, allocating a portion of your refund to this savings account can offer peace of mind and safeguard against future financial shocks.
Another smart move is to tackle your high-interest debt—especially if you carry balances on credit cards or personal loans. The interest on these debts can accumulate quickly, making it challenging to make headway on principal balances. By using your tax refund to pay down or eliminate this debt, you can save significantly on interest payments and improve your overall financial situation.
Focus on the highest interest rates first; this approach is often referred to as the “avalanche method” and can lead to faster long-term savings. However, if you think quick wins will keep your momentum going, consider using the “snowball method,” where you pay off the debt with the smallest balance first, then redirect the amount you were paying towards that debt to the next smallest debt, repeating the process until all debts are paid off.
Using your tax refund to boost your retirement savings is a smart, tax-efficient strategy that enhances long-term financial security. If you haven’t maxed out your annual contributions, consider investing in a tax-advantaged account like a 401(k) or traditional IRA. These contributions not only help grow your retirement fund through compound interest but may also lower your taxable income, reducing your tax liability for the current year. By prioritizing strategic, tax-advantaged investments, you can make the most of your refund while strengthening your financial future.
If you’re considering furthering your education or developing new skills, allocating your tax refund toward a college fund or professional development courses can yield significant returns. Higher education or specialized training can enhance your career prospects, potentially leading to higher income levels in the long run. Investing in yourself by taking steps to increase your earning potential is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.
If you own a home or car, consider using part of your tax refund for necessary repairs or energy-efficient upgrades. While it may not be an immediate financial boost, investing in maintenance costs, like installing a new furnace or fixing your brakes, will help maintain value and functionality, and you’ll avoid bigger problems down the road.
Receiving a tax refund can feel like a financial gift, but the way you use those funds can help create a stronger financial foundation, leading to greater financial security.
The Social Security Fairness Act of 2025 is a significant policy change aimed at addressing long-standing concerns regarding the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). This legislation seeks to restore benefits to retirees who were previously affected by these provisions—public sector retirees, including teachers, firefighters, police officers, and federal employees. Many of these retirees are now eligible for retroactive Social Security payments. However, while receiving a lump-sum back payment may seem like a financial windfall, it can have important tax implications.
Here’s what retirees need to know about the potential tax consequences, income shifts, and Medicare considerations related to these retroactive payments.
Social Security benefits are subject to federal income tax based on your provisional income, which includes:
If your income exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. Receiving a lump-sum retroactive payment under the Social Security Fairness Act could push your income higher, leading to greater tax liability.
For example, if you were already near the 50% taxability threshold, a large back payment might increase the portion of benefits subject to tax.
Retroactive Social Security payments are considered income for the year they are received, not for the years they were originally due. This means:
Tax Planning Tip: The IRS allows retirees to use a lump-sum election method, which spreads the tax impact over multiple years instead of treating it all as current income. Consulting a tax professional can help determine the best approach for minimizing your tax liability.
Social Security payments are linked to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, which are based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). A lump-sum Social Security payment could result in higher Medicare premiums due to:
If your income increases significantly due to a retroactive Social Security payment, you might temporarily pay higher Medicare costs—even if your income decreases the following year.
While Social Security benefits are taxed at the federal level, state taxation varies widely. Some states fully exempt Social Security income, while others partially tax it or follow federal tax rules.
Check your state’s Social Security tax policy to understand potential liabilities, especially if you live in a state that partially or fully taxes benefits.
To avoid surprises, retirees who expect a lump-sum Social Security payment under the Fairness Act should consider the following:
If you’re receiving Social Security benefits and think the Social Security Fairness Act will impact your taxes, a tax professional can help you navigate these changes and develop strategies to manage your increased benefits. By planning strategically, you may be able to maximize your benefits while minimizing tax surprises.
As a small business owner, tax deductions can significantly lower your taxable income and increase your bottom line. In 2025, key tax-saving opportunities include Section 179 deductions, bonus depreciation, and the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit. Understanding these deductions and recent updates can help you make strategic financial decisions.
Section 179 allows businesses to immediately deduct the cost of qualifying equipment and property rather than depreciating it over several years. This deduction is particularly valuable for small businesses that invest in equipment, vehicles, and software.
For the tax year 2025, the Section 179 limit is expected to remain at $1.25 million, with a phaseout threshold of $3.13 million in total equipment purchases. This means if your business spends more than $3.13 million on qualifying property, the deduction begins to phase out dollar for dollar.
Eligible assets include:
To claim the Section 179 deduction, businesses must:
Bonus depreciation has been a significant tax incentive for businesses since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which temporarily increased it to 100%. However, it is gradually phasing out as planned after 2025. The rate in 2025 is 80%. It will be 60% in 2026, 40% in 2027, 20% in 2028, and fully phased out in 2029.
Unlike Section 179, bonus depreciation is not limited by a spending cap and can create a net operating loss (NOL) that may be carried forward. It applies to:
Given the upcoming reduction, businesses planning major capital expenditures should consider purchasing assets in 2025 to take advantage of the 80% deduction before it drops further next year.
The IRS’s updated Form 6765 introduces expanded reporting requirements that will impact how businesses document and claim the R&D tax credit in 2025. These changes aim to improve transparency but require businesses to adjust their reporting processes to remain compliant.
Businesses must now provide more qualitative and quantitative details about their R&D activities. This includes identifying and describing specific business components and projects tied to the credit rather than aggregating expenses under broad categories.
The new requirements mandate a more precise classification of R&D-related wages. Businesses must separate:
Companies without a clear wage-tracking system may need to implement new payroll and documentation processes to meet these requirements.
With the phased implementation of these new rules, businesses should use this transition period to evaluate their documentation processes. Failing to meet the latest standards could expose companies to compliance risks or IRS audits. An internal audit can help identify gaps in recordkeeping and allow time for adjustments before the rules fully take effect.
With these new reporting, tracking, and compliance changes, businesses should take proactive steps to align with the IRS’s evolving requirements. Consulting a tax professional and updating internal systems can help maximize R&D tax credit benefits while avoiding potential compliance pitfalls.
The Trump tariff policies on major trade partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China, could have significant economic implications for U.S. consumers. With a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, and an additional 10% tariff on Canadian energy exports, businesses and everyday shoppers may face rising costs. While tariffs are often used to safeguard domestic industries, they can also lead to higher prices on essential products and services. This article explores the potential impact of these trade policies and what they mean for American consumers.
Tariffs are import taxes placed on foreign goods to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on overseas suppliers. While they aim to protect domestic industries, they also increase the cost of imported products. Contrary to common belief, foreign exporters do not pay these tariffs. Instead, U.S. companies that import these goods must cover the added costs, which often trickle down to consumers through higher retail prices.
Tariffs create a chain reaction that leads to rising prices across multiple industries, ultimately affecting consumers. When businesses pay more for imported goods due to tariff increases, they often raise prices to offset these higher costs. As a result, shoppers may see price hikes on vehicles, electronics, household appliances, and other imported products.
Beyond direct import costs, tariffs also impact domestic manufacturing. Many U.S. companies depend on imported raw materials such as steel and aluminum. When these materials become more expensive, the cost of American-made products rises, making essential goods less affordable for consumers.
International trade tensions further contribute to price increases. Other countries often impose retaliatory measures on American exports in response to U.S. tariffs. China, for example, has already enacted tariffs on U.S. goods, making it more expensive for American businesses to sell products abroad. This disruption can lead to economic instability and additional price pressures within the U.S. market.
Energy and transportation costs also rise due to tariffs. The 10% tariff on Canadian energy resources could increase fuel prices, affecting shipping and delivery expenses. As transportation costs climb, prices for everyday essentials like groceries, clothing, and household items may follow suit.
The cumulative effect tariffs could have on domestic manufacturing, international trade tensions, and energy and transportation costs means that tariffs, while designed to protect domestic industries, often result in higher costs for businesses and consumers.
Although tariffs often increase consumer prices, they can also provide strategic economic advantages. By making imported goods more expensive, tariffs encourage consumers and businesses to purchase domestically produced products. This shift can stimulate growth in U.S. manufacturing, support local industries, and create new job opportunities.
Beyond bolstering domestic production, tariffs can be a powerful tool in trade negotiations. When leveraged effectively, they can pressure foreign governments into agreeing to more favorable trade agreements, potentially reducing unfair trade practices and improving market access for American businesses.
Tariffs may also help reduce the U.S. trade deficit. By discouraging imports, these policies can keep more financial resources circulating within the U.S. economy, potentially strengthening overall economic stability. The impact of tariffs may vary from industry to industry, but they remain a key element of international trade strategies designed to protect national economic interests.
The 2025 tax season has arrived. From the federal income tax filing deadline to due dates for extensions and quarterly estimated tax payments, being aware of these important dates will help you stay organized for a reduced-stress tax season. In this article, we’ll outline key tax deadlines to help you avoid late fees and penalties.
The deadline to file your federal income tax return for the 2025 tax year is April 15, 2025. The IRS provides an automatic extension to June 16, 2025, for U.S. taxpayers living abroad to file and pay. The IRS determines the timeliness of your electronic return based on the date and time it is transmitted in your local time zone. For those filing paper returns, the IRS considers the submission on time if it is correctly addressed, includes sufficient postage, and is postmarked by the deadline.
If you file electronically, ensure your return is transmitted by 11:59 p.m. local time on April 15. Certain taxpayers, such as members of the military or those affected by natural disasters, may qualify for automatic extensions. Check your eligibility for extensions and ensure all filing and payment deadlines are met to avoid interest and penalties.
Taxpayers who e-file and select direct deposit usually receive their refund within 21 days of submitting their return. Filing a paper tax return, however, will increase processing times, with refunds often delayed by four weeks or more. Opt for electronic filing and direct deposit for the quickest and most efficient refund process.
Not filing your federal tax return by the due date can lead to a monthly penalty of 5% on any outstanding taxes, capped at 25% of the total unpaid balance. In contrast, if you submit your return but fail to pay the full amount owed—or if you receive a filing extension—you’ll typically face a lesser penalty of 0.5% per month on the unpaid taxes. To reduce the impact of penalties and interest, file your return on time and pay as much of your tax liability as possible by the deadline.
Submitting a tax extension request by April 15, 2025, gives you until October 15, 2025, to file your federal tax return. However, an extension only postpones the filing deadline—it does not extend the timeframe to pay any taxes owed. You will still be required to pay the full amount due, or a reasonable estimate, by the original April 15, 2025 deadline. Neglecting to pay by this date will lead to interest fees and penalties that continue to grow until the balance is settled. To avoid additional costs, make sure to meet the payment deadline, even if you file later.
Employers must issue W-2 forms to employees by January 31 each year. For freelancers, independent contractors, and individuals with income from non-traditional sources, 1099 forms are typically sent out by February 15.
If you earn income outside of traditional employment, such as from self-employment, freelancing, or other untaxed sources, you are generally urged to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS. Alternatively, you can choose to make a single annual payment. For the 2025 tax year, the yearly payment is due by April 15, and the quarterly payment deadlines are as follows:
Following this IRS payment schedule helps you avoid penalties and interest charges for underpayment.
Maximizing your 401(k) retirement savings is key to building a secure financial future. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to revisit your retirement strategy and ensure you take full advantage of available opportunities. Read on for actionable strategies to help you effectively grow your 401(k) savings this year.
One of the easiest ways to boost your 401(k) savings is to take full advantage of your employer’s matching contributions. Many companies match employee contributions to a certain percentage of their salary to incentivize retirement savings. If you’re not taking full advantage of this, you’re leaving money on the table. For example, if your employer matches 50% of contributions up to 5% of your salary, contribute at least 5%. If possible, adjust your budget and automate your contributions to ensure you’re consistently maxing out your limit.
Your 401(k) investments can significantly impact your savings growth. It’s essential to periodically review your portfolio and adjust based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions.
Consider the following steps:
Consider scheduling a semi-annual or annual review of your 401(k) to stay proactive and adjust your strategy as needed.
If you’re 50 or older, you’re eligible for catch-up contributions, which allow you to contribute more to your 401(k) each year. In 2025, the standard contribution limit is $23,500, with an additional $7,500 authorized for catch-up contributions, bringing the total allowable contribution to $31,000.
This strategy is beneficial if you’re behind on savings or want to capitalize on tax-deferred growth in the final years before retirement. Even small increases in contributions can compound considerably over time.
Retirement policies and contribution limits can change annually. Staying informed ensures you know of opportunities, such as increased limits or new tax incentives, that could impact your savings strategy.
Keeping an open line of communication is important to us. We invite you to reach out to us either by phone, email, or this form to ask questions, request an appointment or talk about any finance-related matter that comes to your mind.
317-398-9753
8 Public Square
Shelbyville, IN, 46176
