The 403(b) plan is often thought of as a 401(k) plan for nonprofits. It’s probably not the only option for your not-for-profit, but it can provide certain advantages over 401(k)s. Following is a brief rundown. Generous Contribution Limits A 403(b) plan is a tax-favored qualified retirement plan set up for employees of not-for-profit organizations, including charities, …
By Richard Koch, CPADirector of Financial ReportingGray, Gray & Gray, LLP Amid chaotic market conditions, accurate and timely financial reporting is more essential than ever. While privately held companies do not have the legal reporting obligations incumbent upon a publicly-traded company, analysis of detailed financial data offers a level of insight for management that can …
Trends in Financial Reporting for Privately Held Companies Read More »
The Auditing Standards Board (ASB) of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) changed the audit standards applicable to audits of financial statements of employee benefit plans subject to ERISA. These standards impact what is currently known as “limited scope audits.” Now, the limited scope audit will no longer be an option, but will …
Traditionally, 403(b) plans have been the qualified retirement plan of choice for not-for-profits. These plans were established for the exclusive benefit of tax-exempt organizations. However, nonprofits now have other options as well. Even if you continue to prefer a 403(b) plan, as many nonprofits still do, it pays to review and weigh the benefits of other …
The amount an individual can contribute to a qualified retirement plan in 2022 has been raised to $20,500, up from a limit of $19,500 imposed in 2019 and 2020. The new cap applies to 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal Thrift Savings Plan. However, if a taxpayer or their spouse is covered by …
By Michael Cecere, CPA, MST Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP Most Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firms provide audits of financial statements. But that does not mean all audits are created equal. Although there are accepted standards for the audit process (Generally Accepted Auditing Standards, or GAAS), the quality and accuracy of audit examination and reporting …
Citing the growing threat of online criminal activity, the U.S. Department of Labor has issued guidance on cybersecurity steps to help protect the nation’s $9.3 trillion in pensions and defined benefit plans. The suggestions are aimed at helping plan sponsors and fiduciaries to avoid data breaches and cyber theft from the estimated 140 million retirement …
DOL Issues Cybersecurity Guidelines for Retirement Benefit Plans Read More »
By Michael D. Koppel, CPA, PFS, CITP, MBA Retired Partner December 1, 2020 Editor: Marcy Lantz, CPA Jill owns a hardware store on Main Street in a small town. The store to her left is a women’s clothing store owned by Mary. To her right is a sporting goods store owned by James. Each business is …
Classifying a worker as an employee or independent contractor has long been a complicated task for employers, with significant consequences. Misclassification can result in fines and penalties, and, in some cases, employers may be required to pay back wages and taxes to a worker who is reclassified as an employee. Now the U.S. Department of …
New Rules on Employee/Contractor Classification Proposed Read More »
By Michael L. Cecere, CPA, MST Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP Despite a few delays and some initial confusion, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan program has distributed some $350 billion in low-interest loans to small businesses across the U.S and a new round of funding is in the works to be approved shortly. The …