With 2013 sales in excess of $1 billion, it’s safe to say that business is booming on Etsy. Sellers operate their own online stores on the site, where they offer handmade, vintage, and crafty goods and supplies.The growing popularity of DIY and visual inspiration sites like Pinterest have created incredible opportunities for crafty and creative types to profit from their handiwork. Once you've established a favorable reputation for yourself and your goods, generating sales comes easily. CPA Ann Irons, who offers bookkeeping services in Bellingham, MA, advises you to take a proactive approach to managing your store’s finances.

As a foreigner considering an investment in real property within the United States, you must take into account current tax codes and laws before finalizing your decision. The most obvious question centers on whether you should pay a higher effective tax rate, forgoing a US tax return. If not, you must file a tax return to secure a lower effective tax rate. Ann Irons, CPA, explains that such an important decision must be made in accordance with several complex codes and regulations. With thousands or even millions of dollars at stake, can you really afford to go it alone?

The housing and real estate world is going through something of a crisis as we try to shake off concerns about austerity and recessions. Money matters take a toll on homeowners’ ability to stay current on their rent or mortgage, and property disputes are more contentious among the cash-strapped. Ann Irons, CPA, LLC and her team offer accounting, bookkeeping, and tax services to individuals and businesses alike. Find out how bringing a CPA on board with your Boston, MA real estate law office improves profits, efficiency, and ensures the accuracy of key financial transactions within the firm and with clients.

Estates and Assets

When a piece of property is included in an estate, several months may be required to resolve the distribution of assets to beneficiaries. The process is frustrating for clients and legal teams alike, and it can be reasonably shortened by ensuring that all financial documents are in order. Our team will review financial documents, tax returns, and bank statements to determine the value of the estate, including real estate. A CPA also supports law firms specializing in commercial real estate.

Employee and Independent Contractor: Know the Difference

As a professional with more than a decade of experience in tax preparation, Bellingham, MA CPA Ann Irons sees firsthand how many people overlook important deductions. Even real estate professionals often fall prey to this trap. Think the IRS will call these errors to your attention? Not likely, says Irons. When it comes to filing your taxes, you’re on your own—unless, that is, you enlist the help of a fellow professional.

The Home Office Deduction: What Is It, and Who Can Claim It?

Real estate professionals often fail to claim a home office deduction. Although not everyone will qualify for this expense,

Here's a key difference between entrepreneurs and everyone else in the world: When matters become so complex that a single individual can no longer manage business affairs on their own, the Average Joe goes into panic mode. Business owners, on the other hand, take a dramatically different viewpoint. This isn't a problem--this is growth! It's exciting, an indication that you're doing something right. Now, this is where things get tricky. Growth is great, but it's precious. You can't bring in just anybody to cultivate and manage this growth, especially where your finances are concerned. Ann Irons, a CPA in Bellingham, MA, explains your options.

As a non-U.S. citizen who spends a significant amount of time in the United States, you must comply with U.S. tax laws to maintain your resident or non-resident alien status. Our state and federal tax requirements are complex, and many of our citizens find the filing process slightly overwhelming. Because your legal right to remain within the country is contingent upon tax compliance, even a simple oversight can jeopardize your status. Ann Irons, CPA, LLC provides accounting services for foreign taxpayers in Bellingham, MA.

When you put your heart and soul into your small business, there’s always the temptation to take on everything yourself, from daily minutiae to strategic planning. Sometimes, though, the “little details” turn into a major distraction. You don’t want just anyone keeping your books, says Ann Irons, CPA, who offers bookkeeping services in Bellingham, MA. Before you cede control of your company's accounting responsibilities, ask yourself whether a candidate meets these criteria:

Does he understand accounting and bookkeeping terms? Can anyone learn the basics of accounting? Absolutely. Do you have time to teach him? Definitely not. Look for someone who can demonstrate a proven ability to interpret and apply these principles.

Despite recent initiatives by the Small Business Association, entrepreneurs from across the country still face significant challenges in securing a loan for their small business. Only a small percentage of loan applicants actually secure approval. For everyone else, tracking down capital proves more difficult. The California Reinvestment Coalition recently conducted a study of small business owners and small business loans in the state of California. The results? Let’s just say that it doesn’t look good for female entrepreneurs, says Ann Irons.

Irons, a CPA in Bellingham, MA, points out that while the study focused only on small businesses in California, the results are fairly representative of other states. Since 2007, the numbers of small business loans granted to female-owned businesses has plummeted by 70%. Because competition for funding is so tough, even a financially secure entrepreneur will not likely be approved for a loan. Lenders often cite the age of the business as a reason for denying a loan, which obviously presents challenges for female-fronted startups. Five years seems to be the standard, but this varies in different areas of the country.

Two Things Female Entrepreneurs MUST Do Before Applying for Loans

Franchises have gained steam over the past decade, and it’s not difficult to see why. Entrepreneurial types can appreciate the marketing, product, and financial support afforded by franchisers while enjoying the challenge and excitement that comes with owning one’s own business. With the right franchise, you could be set for life. With the wrong one, on the other hand…well, it isn’t pretty. CPA Ann Irons has worked with all types of small business owners, and has learned what it takes for an entrepreneur to thrive.

As you consider various opportunities, Ann advises you to research industry growth, satisfied (and unsatisfied) franchisees, earnings records, and unit growth. Look for business opportunities that enable you to pursue the things that you are most passionate about. For example, you might look into a franchise for a boutique fitness center, restaurant, or childcare provider. Finding a good match will make it easy to wake up each morning, ready to build your business.

Don’t Forget the Detailed Disclosure Document