CPA Blog (Nerd Talk)Crunching Numbers. Nurturing Finances. Tax Talk.

Understanding Boot in a 1031 Exchange: Key Tax Implications

A 1031 exchange allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes when selling one property to buy another. However, specific actions during this process can create a “boot,” which is taxable. Knowing how these actions can trigger boot is key to maximizing the tax benefits of your exchange. In this article, we’ll review several …

How Retirement Withdrawals Can Impact Your Medicare Premiums

Retirement Withdrawals & Medicare In 2025, retirees often encounter two big surprises when it comes to Medicare: 1. Medicare Isn’t Free: While Medicare provides health coverage for those over 65, the costs vary based on income and coverage choices. 2. Premiums Can Fluctuate: Medicare Part B and Part D premiums are tied to your income …

1040 Checklist: 2024 Tax Prep Made Easy

Welcome to your stress-free tax preparation headquarters! With tax season just around the corner, CPA Nerds is here to simplify the process and make filing your taxes a breeze. Say hello to our updated 1040 Checklist—a handy tool designed to take the hassle out of tax prep and keep you organized every step of the …

IRS Reminder: Pensioners 73+ Must Take RMDs to Avoid Penalties

IRS to Pensioners: Don’t Skip Your RMDs or Risk a Hefty Tax Bite The IRS has issued a no-nonsense reminder to pensioners: if you’re 73 or older, it’s time to take your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Failure to do so could land you with a tax penalty that might make you wince—a hefty up-to-25% bite …

What is the Difference Between Tax Credits and Tax Deductions?

When it comes to tax planning, knowing the difference between tax credits and tax deductions can make a big difference in how much a business or individual pays in taxes. Both are designed to reduce your tax burden but they work differently. Tax credits give you a dollar for dollar reduction in the amount of …

IRS Processing Employee Retention Credit Claims – But Not Without Delays

Businesses across the country have been anxiously awaiting updates on their Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims, and it appears the IRS is finally moving forward with processing these older claims. However, despite this progress, many companies are still not receiving their funds. Some valid claims are being denied, and others face demands for further verification—even …

Can Classroom Purchases Be Tax Deductible?

CPA Nerds often get questions from educators wondering if they can deduct classroom expenses on their taxes. The good news is that eligible teachers and school employees can deduct certain out-of-pocket classroom costs, offering some relief on their tax returns. Here’s the latest tax law updates and what you need to know for 2024. Who …

What Services Are Exempt from Sales Tax in Michigan?

Understanding which services are exempt from sales tax can help you manage your tax liability and avoid unnecessary tax payments. CPA Nerds will break down the specific services exempt from Michigan’s sales tax and how you can ensure compliance with state tax regulations.  Let’s look into the critical exemptions and the types of services that …

IRS Expands List of Red Flags for Incorrect Employee Retention Credit Claims

At CPA Nerds, we want to keep you in the loop about the latest updates from the IRS on the Employee Retention Credit (ERC). After reviewing the claims they’ve been processing, the IRS recently added some new red flags pointing to potential ERC claims issues. Businesses need to be aware of these warning signs to …

Does Michigan Tax Retirement Income?

Understanding how your retirement income will be taxed, particularly at the state level, is a huge consideration when planning. For residents of Michigan or those planning to retire there, it’s essential to know how the state handles the taxation of retirement income. Let CPA Nerds guide you through Michigan’s tax laws and help you make …