AB CPA, Inc.

Boat owners may qualify for federal income tax breaks — but only if the boat meets specific requirements. For example, a vessel with sleeping, cooking and toilet facilities could qualify as a home for the mortgage interest itemized deduction. Itemizers may also be able to deduct eligible state and local sales tax paid on a boat, subject to applicable limits. Vessels used in bona fide businesses, such as charter fishing or sightseeing, can generate deductible business expenses. Before assuming your boat delivers tax savings, contact us at (708) 430-3232 to learn more. We can help determine your vessel’s eligibility and provide guidance on substantiating any write-offs.

Are you behind on federal tax payments or worried about defaulting on an IRS installment agreement? You might have more options than you realize. If your finances have changed, the IRS may let you adjust your payment plan to lower monthly payments or a new schedule. If your agreement is terminated, you can request reinstatement. You can also consider an offer in compromise, which may allow you to settle for less than you owe. If you’re facing serious financial trouble and can provide evidence of undue hardship, the IRS sometimes allows up to six months to pay. It helps to act early. Call us at (708) 430-3232 with questions.

Do you dream of retiring early? As in, really early? So do adherents of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early). Many FIRE followers aim to retire in their 40s or even 30s! They make it happen by saving at least 50% of their current income, which some maximize by working second jobs. Obviously, this requires discipline and planning. But if early retirement is a priority, call us {Phone%} so we can help you make it happen.

If you own foreign assets and fail to properly address them in your estate plan, unexpected tax outcomes can result. For example, if you’re a U.S. citizen, your worldwide assets are potentially subject to federal gift and estate taxes, regardless of where you live or where the assets are located. So, if you own assets in other countries and the assets are subject to estate, inheritance or other death taxes in those countries, there’s a risk of double taxation. Call us at (708) 430-3232 to learn more about how to properly account for foreign assets in your estate plan.

Are rental real estate activities eligible for the qualified business income (QBI) deduction? The answer is a distinct “maybe.” This tax break allows eligible sole proprietors and owners of “pass-through” entities to deduct up to 20% of QBI. Pass-through entities include partnerships, S corporations and most limited liability companies. However, income from a rental real estate activity is QBI only if the activity rises to the level of a trade or business or meets an IRS safe harbor, which generally requires separate records, sufficient rental services and specific documentation. Various limits and other restrictions also apply. Call us at (708) 430-3232 to learn more.

Are tax problems weighing on you? If you’re facing IRS notices, unfiled tax returns or mounting tax debt, acting quickly can make a difference. We can help you evaluate resolution options and work with the IRS to possibly reduce the burden. Call us at (708) 430-3232 to discuss your situation and explore next steps.

Imagine if a fraud perpetrator wiped out your 401(k) account balance overnight. Would you still be able to retire? Millions of dollars in U.S. retirement plans have been stolen thanks to hackers, identity thieves and social engineers, such as scammers using phishing emails to obtain financial and other personal information. But you can protect your hard-earned savings! Call us (708) 430-3232 for retirement planning help.

Today’s finance and accounting (F&A) teams are under significant pressure. Tight deadlines, lean staffing, evolving regulations and growing compliance demands can lead to burnout, errors and turnover. Retention isn’t just about compensation. Practical operational improvements can make a real difference. Consider automating repetitive tasks, clarifying approval workflows, cross-training staff to ease bottlenecks and leveraging external resources during peak times. When your F&A team has the right structure and support, they’re more productive, accurate and engaged. Call us at (708) 430-3232 to brainstorm cost-effective ways to strengthen your financial operations.

Does your business provide complimentary on-site food and beverages for employees? The rules for deducting certain business meals have changed. Beginning in 2026, employers generally can’t deduct 1) meals treated as de minimis fringe benefits, or 2) employer-provided meals that are excludable from an employee’s income and provided for the employer’s convenience on business premises. For the 2025 tax year, generally the former were 100% deductible and the latter were 50% deductible. Contact us at (708) 430-3232 to discuss whether this change will affect your company and how to plan accordingly.

Every business deserves an advisor who understands its goals and challenges. Our client-first approach combines responsive service with a comprehensive understanding of the latest tax, accounting and regulatory developments. Let’s explore strategies that help your business manage risks, seize opportunities and grow. Call us at (708) 430-3232 to get started.