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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Can Self-Employed Individuals Claim the Tips Deduction?

Can self-employed individuals claim the new tips deduction? Learn how the up to $25,000 no-tax-on-tips deduction works, income limits, what qualifies as a “voluntary tip,” and why only tips reported on Forms 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or 1099-K count. Explore eligible industries and what freelancers must know to maximize this tax benefit.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Small Business Year-End Legal Checklist: Filings, Renewals, and Compliance

Prepare your small business for a smooth new year with this Year-End Legal Checklist. Review essential tasks like business registrations, license renewals, tax and payroll compliance, contracts, and insurance. Learn the key questions every SMB should ask and actionable steps—like creating a compliance calendar—to stay organized, compliant, and ready for 2025.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Living Trust Versus Will

Confused about wills vs. trusts? This guide breaks down estate planning essentials, from probate basics to when a trust may be the better choice. Learn how to protect assets, plan for incapacity, reduce taxes, and ensure your property passes to the right people at the right time. A clear starting point for smarter estate planning.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

An Employer's Easy Guide to Reasonable Accommodation

Learn when employers must provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA, PWFA, PUMP Act, and Title VII. This easy guide explains employer obligations for disabilities, pregnancy, lactation, and religion, plus the steps to follow: create a policy, train staff, use the interactive process, and avoid undue hardship. Stay compliant and protect your workplace.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Security Wage Base for 2026

The Social Security wage base increases to $184,500 in 2026, up from $176,000 in 2025. Learn how this change affects payroll taxes for employees, employers, and self-employed individuals, what higher contributions mean for your budget, and how to plan ahead for rising FICA obligations in the upcoming tax year.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What the Big Beautiful Bill Means for Your Taxes in 2025

The Big Beautiful Bill brings major 2025 tax changes: extended 2017 tax cuts, higher SALT deduction limits, “No Tax on Tips & Overtime,” senior relief, bigger child credits, and new “Trump Accounts.” Learn what sole proprietors, LLCs, S-corps, and franchise owners must watch for—and the practical steps to stay compliant and maximize savings.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What to do About Employees with Disabilities

Learn how to properly support employees with disabilities while staying compliant with the ADA and Rehabilitation Act. This guide covers best practices for inclusive workplaces, low-cost accommodations, documentation, insurance considerations, and available tax credits. Discover practical steps employers can take to reduce risk, improve accessibility, and create a fair, legally compliant work environment.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Probate

Probate in New York is the legal process of validating a will and managing a loved one’s estate through Surrogate’s Court. Learn when probate is required, which assets can skip it, and the key steps—filing, notifying heirs, paying debts, and distributing assets. Get clear, compassionate guidance to navigate probate efficiently and avoid delays.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Legal Documents Your Child Needs When They Turn 18

When your child turns 18, you lose automatic access to their medical and financial information under privacy laws like HIPAA. Learn which legal documents every young adult needs—Patient Advocate Designation, HIPAA Authorization, and Financial Power of Attorney—to ensure parents can make critical decisions in emergencies and avoid costly court petitions for guardianship.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Being Commission-Based Doesn't Make a Worker an Independent Contractor

Being commission-based doesn’t automatically make someone an independent contractor. The IRS and courts look at control, benefits, and work history—not just flexibility or pay structure. Learn how long-term employment, company oversight, and access to benefits can legally define a worker as an employee, and why proper classification is critical to avoid costly penalties.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Elder Abuse: Red Flags and Remedies for Families and Estate Planners

Elder abuse—especially financial exploitation—is a growing concern in estate planning and probate. Learn key warning signs, from unexplained transactions to sudden changes in estate documents, and discover preventive steps families and estate planners can take. Explore legal remedies such as conservatorships, restraining orders, and restitution to protect vulnerable seniors and their assets.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What to do if your Business is Sued and how to Reduce the Threat

Small businesses face lawsuits from employees and customers over issues like wage violations, discrimination, or injury claims. Learn the most common legal risks for small business owners and how to reduce liability through proper insurance, compliance, and legal planning. Discover proactive steps to protect your company, finances, and reputation from costly lawsuits.

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