MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC

Helping Individuals and Businesses Financially Thrive.

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Financial Controller Services

August 30, 2021 / / 0 Comments

The growing pains that flourishing companies experience look different and fluctuate over time based on department, company size, rate of growth, and other key factors. In finance departments, management may notice that as transactions increase in volume and complexity, managing the day-to-day duties of accounting and finance, while maximizing growth and performance can get overwhelming. When this happens, it may mean it’s time to invest in adding a financial controller to the payroll.

What is a Financial Controller?

A financial controller is someone who’s a certified public accountant (CPA) or has equivalent industry experience and education in accounting or finance. Controllers are hired when a company’s finance department requires supplementary support with some of their financial oversight. Every financial controller job is unique, but most will be responsible for ensuring maximum financial efficiency, health, and compliance within their company.

Who Needs a Controller?

As a company becomes more inundated with business overtime, it is normal to crave additional assistance in order to ease the increasing workload on each individual. It is often the chief financial officer (CFO) of a company who will eventually require the direct support of a financial controller. Depending on the company, a financial controller may be responsible for helping the CFO with financial reports and statements, preparing budgets, providing internal audits, preparing taxes, managing purchase orders and other financial related duties.

Final Thoughts

Outsourcing financial controller services for your growing business can provide a cost-effective resource of support at a critical time in your business’ development. Whether your company needs temporary or permanent financial support, you can rely on Mariela Ruiz, CPA, LLC of South Texas! She has a proven track record in her field and is committed to honesty, efficiency, and success every time! Call our team today at (956) 997-0067 to find out how we can help you and your business thrive!

A Homeowner’s Guide to Tax Deductions

July 21, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Being a homeowner means you can potentially benefit from multiple tax breaks if itemizing deductions on your tax return makes financial sense. However, itemizing your deductions are only beneficial if it exceeds the IRS standard deduction. To decide whether or not it’s worth it, start by adding up all the deductions you qualify for and compare it to the standard. No one wants to pass up an opportunity to save on taxes, so read on to learn more about tax deductions that may apply to you.

Property Tax

A property tax deductible is one of the benefits of being a homeowner. You can deduct up to $10,000 or $5,000 if you’re married filing separately. You might also be able to deduct property and real estate taxes on vacation homes, land, vehicles, etc. The IRS does not allow deductibles on property you don’t own and property taxes you haven’t paid yet. If you rent a home, you also cannot write off any property taxes.

Mortgage Interest Rates

A mortgage interest deductible allows you to reduce your taxes by how much interest you’ve paid during the year. Most homeowners are able to deduct all of their interest expenses. However, it’s important to seek the advice with a financial advisor because there are certain limits. According to NerdWallet, “the deduction is limited to interest on up to $750,000 of debt”. If it exceeds this amount, then you may not qualify for a tax deduction.

Rental Income Deductions

If you’re paying a mortgage with renters living on the property, then you qualify for a rental income deduction. The money you receive for rent can be considered taxable in the same year your receive it. Repairs, such as painting, fixing utilities, and other maintenance, is a deductible expense. However, improvements that add value to the property, such as a completely new roof or patio, are not deductible.

Home Office Expenses

You can only deduct home office expenses if you are self-employed and are working out of your home. These expenses can be divided into two categories: direct and indirect. Direct expenses apply only to the area designated as your home office and is used only for business. Maintenance and repairs applied to only that area can be considered as fully deductible expenses. On the other hand, indirect expenses involve the maintenance of your entire home. These expenses are only deductible to a certain percentage based on the square footage of your office.

Home Medical Equipment

If you have healthcare or medical equipment installed in your home for you, your spouse, or a dependent, then you can get this deducted. This also includes home improvement costs for installing ramps, rails, an escalator system, widening doorways, and so on. Be sure to keep the documents of your medical equipment including those that confirm it was approved or recommended by a medical specialist.

Solar Power

Did you know adding solar power panels to your roof can be added to your tax deduction? Not only is it better for the environment but it will also benefit as tax credit. Beginning in 2021, homeowners can take 22% of the cost of installing solar systems. However, this benefit will be lost by 2023, while commercial and utility users can only claim 10%. Homeowners should take advantage of this benefit while they can.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many potential tax breaks that you may benefit from. Always be sure to keep your documents of proof organized and safe. If you need help compiling your deductibles or are in need of financial advice, rely on MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We are here to make the process easy and stress-free. Learn more about our services by visiting our website or calling us at (956) 997-0067.

Accounting for Small Business Owners

June 30, 2021 / / 0 Comments

One of the most challenging jobs entrepreneurs and small business owners are responsible for is accurately managing their finances and taxes up to legal standards. From payroll services to tax preparations most small business owners find that investing in expert outside help is well worth ensuring meticulous perfection throughout the books. Below we review some key points you or your CPA should be aware of when managing the finances for your small business.

Bookkeeping

It’s crucial for small business owners to keep accurate financial records regarding all aspects of their business through bookkeeping. Bookkeeping can include anything from payroll services and financial statement preparation to reviewing invoices and managing expenses and revenue. It provides vital data that can help with management decisions, taxes, and getting approved for business loans.

Audits

Nearly all successful businesses will perform regular internal and external audits to ensure authenticity and search for any inconsistencies. External audits are more effective than internal audits than because they eliminate any possible conflicts of interest, must be completed by a CPA, and provide impartial results.

Taxes

When it comes to small business taxes there is so much more involved than just the tax preparation itself. Many small business owners benefit from strategic tax planning and audit representation to further ensure their business is safeguarded by the best. Texas is home to the second largest economy in the country and with that comes unique tax conditions for franchise owners, limited liability companies, sole proprietorships and other small business owners.

Final Thoughts

Over the years Mariela Ruiz, CPA, LLC has provided countless business owners in Hidalgo County, TX with affordable and convenient bookkeeping and payroll services including audits, tax preparations, financial consulting, forensic accounting and much more. Visit our website for a full list of our array of services or call (956) 997-0067 for any questions you may have.

How Does No State Income Tax Work in Texas?

May 25, 2021 / / 0 Comments

State income taxes vary by state and are basically a certain percentage of money that residents pay to the state government. This is based on how much income you make at your job. The collected state income tax is then used to fund a variety of public services as well as education, healthcare, transportation, assistance to low-income families, housing, and much more. However, there are currently nine states that have no state income tax. This includes Alaska, Tennessee, Wyoming, Florida, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Washington, Nevada, and our very own state – Texas. So what does this mean? In this month’s blog, we will discuss how no state income tax works in Texas and how public services are funded.

What Does No State Income Tax Entail?

No state income tax means a lower tax bill. This may sound appealing to many, however, don’t start planning your move just yet. Don’t assume living in a state with no income tax is cheaper and you should instead consider how exactly the state funds its public infrastructure and wide array of services.

Sources of Revenue

In order to fund its public services, Texas relies on sales, excise, and property taxes. For example, this means Texan residents tend to pay a higher sales tax when it comes to buying goods. According to The Dallas Morning News, for the fiscal year of 2019, sales tax made up about 26.6% of the state’s net revenue and an additional 19.8% came from taxes on oil production, motor vehicles, cigarettes, and natural gas. As you can see, sales and excise taxes make up almost half of the state’s net revenue, and it doesn’t stop there. Property taxes are also a major source of funding for public services. Texas’s property taxes are higher than most states and residents may see a tax burden of 8.20% of their personal income.

Conclusion

There are different sides to either having a state income tax or not at all. One way or another, there are tradeoffs to make up for the loss of revenue from no state income taxes. If you have any further questions about the different taxes that you have to pay, rely on MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We provide tax services and solutions to clients in Mission, TX and surrounding areas. To learn more about our services and what we do, please visit our website or call us at (956) 997-0067.

Tax Deductions for Working at Home

April 12, 2021 / / 0 Comments

The global pandemic of 2020 pushed many businesses to allow their employees to work from home. Many companies look for postponements, cancellations, potentially staff illness, and lockdowns during these difficult times. Many people are looking for tax deductions for working at home. However, getting the tax break is not as simple as it may seem. Here’s some information to consider before trying to get a tax deduction for working at home.

Self-Employed Taxpayers and Independent Contractors

            According to Barbara Weltman, the owner of Big Ideas for Small Business, she states, “If you’re an employee filing taxes between 2018 and 2025, you cannot claim the deduction.” The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act says that an employee cannot include unreimbursed business expenses if they worked from home at their employee’s convenience. However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) claims that self-employed taxpayers and independent contractors are entitled to the deduction. Additionally, individuals earning money in a gig economy can potentially claim the credit, such as a person who is an employee and a gig worker on the side. Many states such as Arkansas, California, Hawaii, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania will let employees take deductions on home office expenses.

Eligible Individuals

            As explained by the IRS, individuals who are exclusively and regularly using their home as a place of business can receive the tax deduction. Unfortunately, a spare bedroom or detached garage used only a few times throughout the year may not fit in exclusive and regular quota. It is important to understand that an audit’s stresses do not compare to the benefits of a deduction. The best thing to do is take a picture of the workspace to present evidence to the IRS.

Two Types of Deduction

            There are two types of tax deductions that an individual may receive depending upon a few elements. Firstly, there is a simplified method that offers a deduction of $1,500 to taxpayers. It requires filling out a Schedule C document, which asks the total square footage of a home and the space being used as a business inside the house.  The IRS will conduct an equation of $5 per square foot, making a home office space of 300 square feet have a tax break. Schedule C’s benefit is that a tax filer does not have to keep evidence of home office expenses.

The other tax deduction can be a tremendous tax saver for people who have been working from home for a long time. IRS Form 8829 is where you show your math in claiming the deduction by adding business expenses like rent, utilities, renters’ insurance, and improvements to space. Some self-employed taxpayers may be losing money by choosing the simplified method.

Conclusion

            Receiving a tax deduction is always a great way to save money. However, there are some specific requirements that people working from home need to meet. Also, taxpayers who are patient can find themselves with more money in their pockets. For more useful information, you can contact MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We specialize in all helping individuals and businesses financially thrive. For many years we have offered various services, including forensic accounting, tax services, financial consulting, bookkeeping, and much more. Our many years of experience ensure that you’re in good hands. Visit our website to contact us today!

What is Solar Power Tax Credit?

March 24, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Green energy sources have many benefits to you and the world, including a federal tax credit or home and business owners who have had solar power panels installed before December 31. The federal solar tax credit, known as the investment tax credit (ITC), is much more profitable than a deduction. However, for taxpayers to get the full benefit, the world needs a sufficient income. Here are what tax professionals should know about ITC.

Introduction

When the government provides a tax incentive, it is happy about it, especially when local and state enticements convoy it. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the government passed the ITC as part of the Energy Policy Act, which has been extended four times since its initial passage. The credit is now at 26 percent for the next two years so that eligible taxpayers can have a dollar-for-dollar decrease in the amount of income tax they owe. Taxpayers are looking forward to 2023 because the tax credit will drop to 22 percent. Renewable portfolio standards are in some states where utility companies give clients a specified minimum amount of electricity from solar. Utility companies buy energy made by a solar customer’s house. The value of solar renewable energy certificates will vary by state, but this is an example of taxpayer liberation.

How Does It Work?

            Solar power panels remain to provide people with prospective savings after filing their taxes. Solar energy creates opportunities to resell excess energy, evade power outages when harmonizing with a battery, and charge electric cars. The sun’s rays shine on the solar panels resulting in generating electricity that gives homeowners lower electric bills. The energy is completely free to the owner once the payment to the solar company ends. Also, solar power works all day, even when it is raining or dark overcast. Utility companies can offer the ability to sell back electricity to the grid for a credit on a homeowner’s electric bill. The utility companies can credit a home’s electric account.

The government is devoted to solar power that many states and cities have recognized property tax exemptions on solar. The solar panel installation calculates property tax fees giving homeowners and companies more money.

Conclusion

Solar energy panels have many benefits for businesses and homeowners. However, it could be challenging to understand everything about the tax deduction that comes with installation. You can count on Mariela Ruiz, CPA, PLLC, to help you with your taxes. We can give you tax advice for any situation you are in and find a financial solution that benefits you. We want to save you money by providing attentive and well-strategized plans, so call us at (956) 997-0067 today!

Common Itemized Deductions

February 25, 2021 / / 0 Comments

When you are preparing to file your taxes, don’t forget about itemized deductions. These are individual tax deductions you can take in lieu of the standard deduction. Making the decision to itemize could potentially save you more money on taxes. To learn more about the types of deductions you can itemize, continue reading our blog.

Charitable Deductions

Did you contribute to a charity in the past year? If you made donations to a qualifying organization, you can itemize and therefore, lower your tax bill. It’s important to keep a record of donations, which can include everything from bank records to receipts. Make sure that you have the name of the organization, the amount donated, and the date. The more information you have, the more accurate your tax form will be.

Medical and Dental Expenses

Medical expenses are deductible as itemized deductions, but in a very limited way. You can only deduct the amount of medical expenses that exceed 10% of your AGI or 7.5% if you’re over 65. You and your family members that have qualifying medical expenses can take advantage of these deductions. Examples include: doctor’s fees, co-pays, prescriptions, transportation to a medical facility, and more.

Work-Related Education Expenses

If you choose to itemize work-related education expenses, you may be able to deduct these expenses from your taxes. To claim this deduction, costs must be related to maintaining or improving job skills and required by your employer. These costs include tuition, books, lab fees, travel, etc. It’s also important to note that you can only deduct these expenses if they exceed 2% of your adjusted gross income.

Conclusion

If you have questions about itemized deductions for your 2020 taxes, then call MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We have the tax solutions you need to get more out of your tax return. From income tax preparation to strategic tax planning, contact our advisors for more details on how you can save money!

Visit our website here.

What You Need to Know for the 2021 Tax Season

December 21, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Many will agree that 2020 has been a year of unique challenges but 2021 is just right around the corner! With that being said, below we discuss some things to keep in mind as we approach 2021 and the upcoming tax season.

Tax Day is Thursday April 15th, 2021

This is the date you must file you taxes before! Most can take the standard deduction which has increased from this year to $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly. You may also itemize your deductions which is a little bit more painstaking, however is worth it if your itemized deductions exceed your standard deduction.

Stimulus Checks Aren’t Taxable

The CARES Act was instituted near the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and gave many citizens a onetime payment of $1200. These payments will not count as taxable income in the upcoming year which is great news for most tax payers! You can think of it as a kind of advanced refund you would have received as part of your 2021 tax refund.

Unemployment Income is Taxable

The pandemic has caused much of the country to shut down for extended periods of time, leaving many Americans jobless through no fault of their own. If you were one of the millions of Americans who received unemployment benefits in 2020, you have to pay taxes on that income. If you opted to defer taxes on your unemployment payments before you received them then you will need to save for the taxes that will be due when you file, or pay estimated quarterly taxes to stay ahead.

Final Thoughts

As always, consult your tax professional to get the most out of your taxes in 2021 and speak with someone who can help you in your specific financial situation. Mariela Ruiz, CPA, PLLC is here to help individuals and business owners in the Mission, TX community with their taxes and wishes you all a prosperous 2021!

What Can a General Ledger Tell You About Your Business?

November 27, 2020 / / 0 Comments

According to The Blueprint, “The general ledger is an essential part of accounting and bookkeeping processes. The general ledger serves as a repository for every transaction that is recorded, and is a must for any business using double-entry accounting.” Companies can use a general ledger as a way to view specific details from transactions from month to month or even the current year. Learn more about what a general ledger can do for your business.

Manage Expenses

Have you noticed you are paying more utilities and rent? Are there increased costs for professional services you were not aware of? You can access your transactions by running a general ledger report to see activity. These transactions are recorded in different account types, such as assets, revenues, expenses, etc. Within your expense category, you can find detailed information on rent, payroll, and professional services you use. A general ledger allows you to manage overhead costs and get an overall view of your business expenses.

View Monthly Activity

If you need to look at expenses from March to April, run a general ledger report for more details. This accounting practice is encouraged for company owners to see their activity for a specific time period. The general ledger will have beginning and ending balances for the months you need. Any activity between those time periods are shown, which can be activity from sales, payroll, inventory adjustments, and more.

Catch Any Errors

If there is an unusual increase in expenses from a certain category, turn to your general ledger. You can look for errors by viewing the activity. In addition, you can check on any journal entries recorded or modified. Corrections for any errors can be made within the journal entry. If the journey entry is true, then no correction is necessary.

Conclusion

When you need general ledger accounting, contact MARIELA RUIZ, CPA, PLLC. We review and analyze your general ledger for any discrepancies and determine if corrective action is necessary. To learn more about our general ledger service, call (956) 997-0067 or visit us online here.

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