Peggy James, CPA

When not crunching numbers or mastering spreadsheets, you’ll find Peggy exploring trails with her black lab Jesse, perfecting recipes in her kitchen, or enjoying long walks outdoors. Her extensive career spans both nonprofit and corporate finance, where she’s developed expertise in everything from foundational accounting practices to complex fiscal year-end closings complete with accruals and deferrals. Peggy particularly enjoys creating budgets for programs of all sizes and sharing her financial knowledge through training sessions with faculty, students, and staff.

Credentials

Bachelor of Arts in Government from the University of Virginia
Master of Accounting degree from North Carolina State University

Articles written by Peggy James, CPA

Business partners meet with consultant

Compliance Payroll

Do I need a CPA for my small business in 2026? What to know

Wondering if your small business needs a CPA? Learn when it's time to hire an accountant, how much it typically costs, and what to look for in a tax pro.

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Business owner researches taxes

Self-employed health insurance deduction: who qualifies and how to claim it

Learn who qualifies for the self-employed health insurance deduction and how freelancers, sole proprietors, and S Corp owners can claim it.

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Owner reviews health insurance premiums

S Corp health insurance deductions: a practical guide

Confused about S Corp health insurance deductions? This CPA-written guide explains how premiums are deducted, reported, and taxed in 2026.

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Articles reviewed by Peggy James, CPA

Employee researches benefits

How to start a business in Virginia: 2026 step-by-step guide

Starting a business in Virginia? Follow this step-by-step guide on registration, SCC filing, local BPOL licenses, and Virginia tax requirements.

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Entrepreneur researches state laws

How to start a business in Tennessee: A step-by-step guide

Setting up shop in Tennessee? Our guide covers every step of how to start a business in Tennessee, from LLC registration to state tax compliance and payroll.

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Businesswoman researches local laws

How to start a business in Georgia: 2026 step-by-step guide

Turning your idea into a reality? Learn how to start a business in Georgia, from registering with the Secretary of State to state tax withholding and hiring staff.

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Entrepreneur researches local licenses

How to start a business in North Carolina: 2026 step-by-step guide

Ready to launch? Follow these clear steps to start a business in North Carolina, from choosing a structure to registering for state taxes and permits.

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Business owner speaks with client

How payroll software works to streamline paying employees

How does payroll software work? Learn how moving away from spreadsheets to automate wages and tax filings can simplify payday for your team.

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Retail manager works on payroll

Retail payroll tips for managing time, commissions, and busy seasons

Managing retail payroll often involves complex tax codes and scheduling. In this guide, learn how to stay compliant, handle seasonal shifts, and pay your team accurately.

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Restaurant owner runs payroll

Restaurant payroll: How to handle tips, taxes, and overtime

Restaurant payroll requires tracking tips, taxes, and overtime. Learn how tip credits, reporting rules, and labor costs work for 2026 compliance.

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School admin reviews payroll

Struggling with school payroll? Here's how to get it right

School payroll can be complex, with teachers, subs, and seasonal staff. Learn the biggest challenges, errors to avoid, and tools for accurate payroll.

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Rsearching different payroll taxes

FICA vs. FUTA vs. SUTA: Which payroll taxes apply to your business?

Compare FICA vs FUTA vs SUTA to understand what each payroll tax covers and learn how employers calculate and manage these obligations accurately.

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