5 Unique Tax Loopholes to Maximize Returns for Small Business Owners
In the quest to uncover lesser-known tax savings, we've gathered insights from a diverse group of professionals, including attorneys and founders. From exploring specific sections of the tax code to maximizing home office deductions, here are five unique tax loopholes that could help small business owners enhance their tax returns.
Explore Section 199A Deduction Details
Maximize Home Office Deductions
Consider Indexed Universal Life Insurance
Claim R&D Tax Credit Opportunities
Utilize Section 179 Deductions Fully
Explore Section 199A Deduction Details
Here's an example of a tax strategy that might be beneficial for some small businesses: The Section 199A deduction, also known as the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, was introduced as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017. This deduction allows eligible small business owners to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income from their taxable income. The deduction is subject to certain limitations and thresholds, and the specific calculation can be complex.
Small business owners who qualify for the Section 199A deduction can potentially reduce their taxable income significantly, leading to a lower overall tax liability. The deduction is available for certain pass-through entities, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, S corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs).
It's important to note that the eligibility criteria and calculation methods for the Section 199A deduction are intricate, and the deduction might be subject to various limitations based on factors such as the type of business, total taxable income, and other considerations. Additionally, the deduction could be affected by subsequent changes in tax law.
Given the complexity of tax laws and regulations, it's recommended that small business owners consult a tax professional who is knowledgeable about current tax rules and can provide personalized advice based on their specific circumstances. This will help ensure that they can maximize their potential tax benefits while staying compliant with tax regulations.
Robert Reder, Attorney, Blythe Grace PLLC
Maximize Home Office Deductions
If you use a portion of your home exclusively and regularly for business purposes, you may be able to deduct a percentage of your rent, mortgage interest, utilities, and other home expenses on your tax return. This can provide significant savings, especially for those running home-based businesses or freelancing from their residences.
To qualify, the space must be used solely for the business and be your principal place of business, or a place where you meet clients or customers in the normal course of business. You'll need to calculate the percentage of your home devoted to business use.
Additionally, you can deduct direct expenses for maintaining the home office space, like repairs or a dedicated business phone line. Many small business owners overlook or underutilize this deduction, missing out on valuable tax savings simply from optimizing their existing workspace.
However, it's crucial to carefully document and have evidence supporting your home office claims, as the IRS tends to scrutinize this deduction closely. However, when properly utilized according to regulations, the home office deduction can provide a legal avenue for small businesses to significantly reduce their taxable income.
Brian Meiggs, Founder, My Millennial Guide
Consider Indexed Universal Life Insurance
One unique tax loophole that small-business owners can consider to maximize their tax returns is utilizing Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance policies. IULs offer a tax-advantaged way to save for retirement while also providing a death benefit. With an IUL, the cash value grows tax-deferred, meaning you don't pay taxes on the growth until you withdraw it. Moreover, withdrawals up to your basis (the amount you've contributed) are typically tax-free, and loans against the cash value are generally tax-free as well, as long as the policy remains in force.
For small-business owners, IULs can serve as a supplemental retirement savings vehicle beyond traditional options like 401(k)s or IRAs. By leveraging the tax advantages of IULs, business owners can potentially lower their taxable income, maximize their retirement savings, and enjoy greater financial security in the long run. However, it's essential to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to determine if an IUL aligns with your overall financial goals and circumstances.
Ryan Wood, Sales Director, Insurance Geek
Claim R&D Tax Credit Opportunities
In guiding small businesses through the intricacies of government contracts, a notable tax strategy often overlooked is the R&D Tax Credit. Specifically tailored for businesses engaging in research and development, this credit can significantly reduce tax liability. Many assume it's only for tech giants, but it's surprisingly applicable to a wide range of industries, including those developing new products or software for government use.
By thoroughly documenting their innovation processes, several firms we've worked with have reclaimed substantial amounts for reinvestment into their businesses, turning a complex tax code into a powerful tool for growth.
Josh Ladick, President, GSA Focus
Utilize Section 179 Deductions Fully
I try to avoid recommending techniques intended to exploit technical loopholes in tax law. However, one legitimate strategy small-business owners can leverage is the use of Section 179 deductions.
This provision allows qualifying taxpayers to fully deduct or "expense" in the first year a portion of the cost of certain business equipment and machinery, rather than depreciating those assets over several years. The deduction reduces taxable income, resulting in lower taxes sooner.
For 2023, up to $1.5 million of assets can be deducted. This provides significant and timely cost savings for new or expanding small businesses actively investing in eligible equipment. While not a loophole, it has boosted some startups.
Of course, individual circumstances must be thoroughly reviewed to confirm Section 179 benefits any given taxpayer and conforms to all relevant IRS rules. However, the savings potential thereby aligns with Congress's aim of supporting small-company growth through tax code incentives without reliance on technical strategies difficult to sustain upon future scrutiny or audit.
As always, informed tax preparation aids compliant optimization of provisions enhancing small ventures' financial outlooks through prudent utilization of available advantages.
Loretta Kilday, DebtCC Spokesperson, Debt Consolidation Care