Lenhart, Mason & Associates, LLC

10/07/2026

10/05/2026

Business owners often have more complex tax situations that can trigger an IRS audit. The good news is that with proper preparation, detailed records and professional guidance, you can make the process far less stressful.

Some returns may be selected randomly, but the IRS also has some audit hot buttons. Examples include significant differences between current and prior-year returns, repeated business losses, profit margins and expenses that differ substantially from similar businesses, and mathematical errors.

If you receive an IRS notice, don’t panic; contact us immediately. We can help you understand the issues, gather the needed documents and respond to the inquiries effectively.

09/28/2026

If you want to sell your business, receiving the purchase price over time in an installment sale may allow you to spread your gain — and the related tax — over several years.

The buyer typically makes a down payment and issues a note for the balance. Each principal payment generally includes a tax-free return of basis and taxable gain; interest on the note is taxed separately as ordinary income. This arrangement may also expand the pool of buyers or help you obtain a higher price. But depreciation recapture may be taxable upfront, and you assume the risk that the buyer won’t pay.

Contact us to discuss the pros and cons and determine the optimal deal structure for your situation.

09/21/2026

Does your business accept, spend or invest in cryptocurrency? The IRS scrutinizes digital-asset transactions. Business tax returns include a question about digital assets, and brokers must report certain transactions on Form 1099-DA.

Digital assets are treated as property for federal tax purposes. Cryptocurrency accepted for goods or services is taxable income based on its fair market value when received. Selling, exchanging or spending it may create a separate gain or loss. Crypto payments to employees and contractors are subject to the usual tax-reporting rules and can produce a business gain or loss. Contact us to review your 2026 digital-asset activity and reporting obligations.

09/17/2026

You know what's great about September? Brentyn Shaffer. Brentyn is our only September anniversary and this year we're celebrating 6 years of Brentyn at LMA. It seems fitting that he gets his own month because...well...he's a great guy! Please join us in congratulating Brentyn on his work anniversary!