Articles written by David Kindness, CPA
Payroll and bookkeeping: How are they connected?
See how bookkeeping and payroll services complement each other for small businesses. Learn key differences, integration benefits, and cost-saving tips.
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Form 8821 vs. 2848: Key differences every accountant should know
This guide covers the key differences accounting firms should know between Forms 8821 and 2848 to handle client authorizations correctly.
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Form 2848: Power of attorney principles for accountants
In this primer, learn how Form 2848 gives accountants power of attorney to represent clients before the IRS for audits, disputes, negotiations, and documentation.
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How engagement letters help accounting practices set client expectations
Engagement letters set clear expectations between accountants and clients. Learn how they protect your practice by defining services, pricing, and boundaries — plus get a free letter template.
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What is an EFIN Number and why do tax professionals need one?
Get familiar with what an EFIN number is, why it's essential for tax professionals, plus how to obtain, verify, and navigate the requirements without issues.
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What is Form 8821 and why should accountants be familiar with it?
See how Form 8821 can help your clients provide you permission to specific client tax information and streamline IRS communication without granting power of attorney.
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Sovereign wealth funds: What they are and why accounting firms should get familiar with them
Learn about sovereign wealth funds, how they operate, and why accountants should understand their potential so they can anticipate questions from their small business clients.
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Form 945: Getting familiar with this IRS document and instructions on completing it
Learn what Form 945 is and how to complete this important IRS tax form for reporting federal income taxes withheld from non-payroll payments in 2025.
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Form 7004: Business owner's guide to tax extensions and how to complete IRS form 7004
In this business owner's guide, learn what IRS Form 7004 is used for, why businesses should be familiar with it, and how to complete it. Includes PDF.
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Form 1096: what is a 1096 IRS form used for and how to complete it
Form 1096 needs to be completed if you paid contractors & sent 1099 forms. Get instructions on filling it out and a 1096 form 2025 PDF download.
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Certified payroll reporting requirements and the purpose of prevailing wages
Learn what certified payroll is, the purpose of prevailing wages, and how reporting works for companies working on federally funded construction projects.
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Payroll audit primer: How and why employers should run one
Learn about the payroll audit process, the benefits of conducting one, and why employers should add this task to their to-do list throughout the year.
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2025 minimum wage by state and what employers need to know
View each state's minimum wage for 2025 in a user-friendly table, see where it may rise next, and learn how federal law could shape future rates.
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2024 DOL ruling explained: Employer’s guide and what it means for worker classification
This guide to the 2024 DOL worker classification ruling helps employers know what’s changed from 2021 to classify employees and contractors correctly.
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What is a gig worker vs. an independent contractor? Employer’s guide on how they differ
This guide has everything you need to know about gig workers, how they compare to independent contractors, and what to look for when hiring them.
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Form 1120 facts: Who files it and how to use it for reporting taxable income to the IRS
This CPA-written business owner's guide to tax Form 1120 explains its purpose and how to file it, making it stress-free to report taxable income to the IRS.
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Employee leasing lessons and how professional employer organizations (PEOs) work
Learn what employee leasing is, how it works, some pros and cons, and how tax reporting is handled when employers hire these types of workers.
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Articles reviewed by David Kindness, CPA
How to 1099 someone: A complete guide for employers
Learn how to 1099 independent contractors with this guide. It covers W-9 forms, what the threshold means, NEC vs. MISC forms, important deadlines, and common errors to avoid.
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Stacking deductions: mastering multiple wage garnishments
In this employer's guide, learn how to manage multiple wage garnishments, prioritize debts, and stay compliant with federal and state laws.
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Travel time pay for hourly employees: state and federal rules
Find out when travel time is compensable, what federal and state laws require, and how to properly track and pay employees.
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Retroactive pay law: Employer guide to backdated wages and compliance
Retroactive pay law can catch employers off guard. Discover how it affects wages, when it triggers, and what compliance steps you must take to protect your business from costly payroll mistakes and potential legal issues.
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P&L versus income statement: Understanding the key differences and uses
A P&L and income statement are the same thing — just different names. Discover how they compare and why it matters for your financial reporting.
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No tax on overtime explained: What employers and employees need to know
Navigate the One Big Beautiful Bill Act's new overtime tax rules with this guide covering federal deduction benefits for employees and updated W-2 reporting requirements for employers.
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Overpaid employee payroll fixes: A legal and practical guide
In this primer, learn practical steps to correct an overpaid employee situation legally, avoid conflict, and protect your business from potential financial risks.
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Payroll register example: how to read, use, and create one
Review a real payroll register example, learn what each section means, and discover how to use it to improve payroll accuracy and reporting compliance.
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How employers handle tip reporting requirements the right way
Understand your employer tip reporting obligations with this detailed guide covering IRS forms, tax calculations, and proven compliance strategies.
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1099-NEC vs 1099-MISC Forms explained
Find out which 1099 form is right for your business. Explore the key differences between NEC and MISC forms to simplify your tax reporting process.
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Payroll journal entry essentials for small business owners
This primer explores how payroll journal entries help small businesses track wages, taxes, and deductions. Learn key tips to improve your payroll accounting now.
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When do W-2s come out? Deadlines for employers and what to expect
Wondering when W-2s come out? Keep up with important dates and employer responsibilities to ensure timely filing and compliance.
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What is a 9/80 work schedule? Pros, cons, and how it works
In this overview, learn how the 9/80 work schedule works, its benefits for employees and employers, and whether it fits your workplace needs
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Payroll ledger basics for small business owners
Learn what a payroll ledger is, what it’s used for, and how to maintain accurate payroll records for your small business.
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Employer's guide to understanding how much payroll costs a small business
To better manage expenses, find out the most common factors affecting payroll costs for small businesses, such as taxes, software, and employee benefits.
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A step-by-step guide on how to create a payroll budget
In this guide, learn how to create a payroll budget that lines up with your organization’s goals and supports business growth.
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Temporary employee vs. independent contractor: Discover the differences
This employer’s guide explores the key differences between temporary employees and contractors, including tax rules, benefits, and legal factors.
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How many pay periods in a year: 2025 payroll calendar
In this employer's guide, get familiar with the 2025 payroll calendar, see how many pay periods there are in a year, and pick up tips to stay ahead of compliance.
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Pay rate round-up: Understanding rate of pay per period or unit
In this primer, learn how pay rates work, the different types of pay structures, and how to set competitive rates for your workforce.
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Form 940 vs. 941: Getting familiar with the purpose of each IRS form
In this guide, get familiar with differences between Form 940 and 941, when to file each, and how to avoid tax filing mistakes.
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Cash tips vs. credit card tips: Understanding the difference
Get a deep dive into the differences between cash and credit card tips, their tax implications, and how they affect employees and employers.
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Payroll liabilities: Employer’s guide on what they are and why to pay attention
In this guide, learn how to stay on top of payroll liabilities, avoid compliance pitfalls, and ensure your business's payroll processes are accurate.
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What Is a payroll lock and how do you use It?
Get up to speed on the benefits of using a payroll lock, including how it works to safeguard your payroll process and ensure timely, accurate payments.
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Tip pooling: What it is and how to split tips between employees
Learn how tip pooling works, legal requirements, and strategies for equitable tip distribution among staff.
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Voluntary deductions: Overview, examples, and tips
Learn what voluntary payroll deductions are, common examples, and get tips to manage them efficiently for employees and employers.
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Involuntary deductions: Laws, types, and examples
In this guide, learn about common involuntary deductions, relevant laws, and employer responsibilities.
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Year-to-date payroll: An employer's guide to planning success
Simplify your year-to-date payroll reporting, learn how it benefits employers, and get up to speed on why it's so important with this easy-to-follow guide.
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Small business payroll taxes: A guide for employers
Get everything you need to know about payroll taxes with this guide designed for small business owners, with CPA insights, plus tips on compliance and filing.
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Absenteeism rate: Definition, calculations, and common causes
Learn what absenteeism rate is, why it matters, and how to calculate it. Find out how to improve attendance and employee engagement in your company.
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Employer’s guide to Medicare tax: How it's calculated, common questions, and what these taxes pay for
Learn everything employers need to know about Medicare tax, including rates, contributions, and filing requirements. A detailed guide for compliance.
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Understanding payroll tax penalties plus best practices to prevent them
In this employer’s guide, get familiar with some common payroll common tax penalties, their root causes, and how to avoid them altogether.
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Employer's guide to independent contractor taxes and required tax forms
See what your tax obligations are when hiring independent contractors, plus learn about 1099 forms, tax withholding, and managing contractor payments.
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What is “tax blocked” on a federal pay stub: Guide for employers
Find out what "tax blocked" on federal pay stubs means and understand how it impacts your employees' tax withholdings and paycheck.
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Employer’s guide on how to make and print a payroll check
Learn how to make and print payroll checks with this simple step-by-step guide. Perfect for small business owners managing payroll in-house.
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How to set up direct deposit for employees with ease
Learn about setting up direct deposit for your company, including how it works, and what the benefits are for employees and employers.
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Accounting professional’s guide to switching payroll software mid-year
Learn why some accounting professionals switch payroll software mid-year, common errors to avoid, and find out what to prepare before switching.
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2025 minimum wage by state and what employers need to know
View each state's minimum wage for 2025 in a user-friendly table, see where it may rise next, and learn how federal law could shape future rates.
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Employer’s guide to state tax reciprocity agreements
Learn how state tax reciprocity agreements help employees avoid double taxation by paying taxes only where they live, instead of where they work.
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IRS Form SS-8: Instructions for 2025 + PDF Download
Have questions about classifying employees? The IRS can help if you submit Form SS-8. Get the basics on what it is, when to file it, and how to fill it out. Includes PDF.
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Form 941 2025: Updated instructions and PDF Download
There’s a new IRS Form 941 as of March 2025. Here’s a primer to help you fill out your Quarterly Federal Tax Return. Includes PDF.
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Form 940 for 2025: Instructions to complete this IRS form plus PDF download
If your business has employees, you probably need to file IRS Form 940. Get the basics on your federal unemployment tax return, when to file it, and how to fill it out. Includes PDF.
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W-2 Form 2025 PDF plus simple instructions on how to fill it out
If your business has employees, you probably need to prepare and file a W-2 for each of them. Get the basics on what it is, when to file it, and how to fill it out. Includes PDF.
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W-3 form 2025: Simple instructions on to complete this IRS Form and PDF download
Working on your end-of-the-year W-3? We’ll help you understand what it is, when to file it, and how to fill it out. Includes printable form.
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