Solo 401(k) vs. SEP vs. SIMPLE for High Earners With W‑2 + K‑1 Income (2025–2026 Limits)
If you earn a high W-2 and also have K-1 income, the right small business retirement plan can unlock a five-figure deduction—without blowing past IRS limits.
Ways to Pay Your Kids (Legally) and Cut Your Tax Bill: The Family Payroll Playbook
Learn how to hire your kids legally, document it correctly, and potentially reduce your family’s tax bill—without triggering an audit.
If you’re paying your teenager’s phone bill, car insurance, or spending money out of your personal account, you might be missing a cleaner option: put them on the payroll (legitimately).
Unlocking Losses: The Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) Test Explained
If your rentals are generating big paper losses but your tax bill on your W-2 income has barely moved, you are likely running into the IRS passive activity loss rules. This article breaks down, in plain English, how Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) and material participation can convert those “trapped” passive losses into nonpassive deductions that can actually reduce your current-year tax liability, especially in a 100% bonus depreciation world under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
I walk you through the REPS tests, the rental grouping election, how short-term rentals fit into the picture, and why clean, contemporaneous time tracking is non-negotiable if you ever face an IRS exam. The post includes a practical, numbers-driven example comparing a high-income couple with and without REPS, plus a step-by-step implementation checklist and a downloadable REPS Hours Tracker Template so you can start documenting your hours the right way.
Accountable Plans 101: Reimbursing Home Office, Phone & Travel the Right Way
If you’re an S-Corp owner paying for your home office, phone, internet, mileage or travel out of pocket, you’re likely missing deductions. This guide explains how an IRS-approved accountable plan turns those costs into tax-free reimbursements for you and tax-deductible expenses for your business.
Augusta Rule (280A(g)) Without Risk: 7-Point Documentation Checklist
Learn how to legally rent your home to your own S-corp, C-corp, or partnership for up to 14 days a year, deduct the rent at the entity level, receive it tax-free personally, and back it all with audit-ready documentation using a 7-point checklist.
1031 Exchanges in 2025: The 45/180-Day Clock & 5 Mistakes to Avoid
1031 exchanges are still alive and well in 2025—but the rules are unforgiving. This guide breaks down the 45/180-day deadlines, Qualified Intermediary requirements, boot, and five common mistakes that can blow up your tax deferral. If you’re planning to sell investment property, read this before you close or book a planning call to run your numbers.
S-Corp Reasonable Compensation in 2025 — Benchmarks, Factors & a Simple Calculator
Set a defensible S-Corp salary in 2025. Learn the IRS 9-factor framework, BLS market benchmarks, and a practical blend of methods—then use our simple calculator to choose a compliant, tax-smart number.
Cost Segregation 101 for Small Landlords: When a Study Pays—and When It Doesn’t
Cost segregation can front-load depreciation and unlock major first-year tax savings—but it isn’t one-size-fits-all. This 2025 guide shows small landlords exactly when a study makes sense (property value, timing, REP/STR eligibility, hold period), when to skip it, and how bonus depreciation affects your numbers. Use the free Cost Seg Calculator to model Year-1 savings, breakeven, and ROI—then decide with confidence.
STR "Non-Passive" Rules: Qualify Without REP Status + Ready-to-Use Time-Log Template
Your short-term rental can be non-passive—without REP. Learn how the 7-Day rule and material participation tests work, what hours count, and the documentation needed to defend your position. Includes a downloadable STR time-log template to track stays and prove owner hours.
Year-End Tax Planning Checklist: 15 Critical Moves Before December 31
Get ahead of tax season with our Year-End Tax Planning Checklist: 15 Critical Moves Before December 31. This essential guide from The RVA Accountant, PLLC helps business owners, real estate investors, and self-employed professionals minimize taxes, maximize deductions, and stay compliant before year-end. Learn which last-minute actions can save you thousands—from retirement contributions and expense timing to S-Corp payroll adjustments and charitable giving. Perfect for proactive taxpayers who want to finish the year strong and start the new one financially ready.
Maximizing Business Deductions: Home Office & Vehicle Write-Offs for High Earners in 2025
Discover how high-earning professionals can leverage home office and vehicle expense deductions to significantly lower their 2025 tax bills. This post breaks down eligibility, calculation methods, and real-world examples, empowering you with expert strategies from The RVA Accountant, PLLC.
The Tax-Efficient Case for Real Estate Investing: A Guide for High-Net-Worth Business Owners
Discover the power of real estate investing for high-net-worth small business owners. From rental properties and commercial real estate to REITs and flipping houses, learn how strategic tax moves like 1031 exchanges, depreciation, and pass-through deductions can amplify your wealth and minimize taxes. Make real estate your most tax-efficient asset—here’s how.
Converting to an S-Corporation: Deep Dive into the Advantages and Disadvantages
Discover the benefits and drawbacks of converting to an S-Corporation (S-Corp) for your business. Learn how this tax election can save you money, simplify taxes, and provide liability protection while understanding the compliance challenges involved.
2025 Tax Brackets: Key Updates for Individuals, Corporations, Trusts, and Investments
The IRS has released the updated tax brackets for 2025, reflecting important changes for individuals, corporations, trusts, and investors. This blog post breaks down the key updates, including income tax rates, capital gains brackets, and estate tax thresholds, along with actionable strategies to help you navigate the upcoming tax season. Stay informed and plan ahead with expert guidance from The RVA Accountant, PLLC.
