Christiansen Accounting

09/04/2026

Feeling like the “family CFO” with kids, parents, and your own future all pulling at once? You’re not alone—and the biggest mistake is helping others before securing your own financial foundation. Read now to see how to protect your retirement while supporting the people you love.

Supporting children, helping aging parents, and protecting your own retirement can turn you into the family CFO. Here’s how to manage the financial overlap.

09/03/2026

Think your business expense is safe because it was “for work”? A recent Tax Court case says otherwise—especially for travel, meals, and vehicle deductions. Learn why solid records can make or break your tax write-off. Read now to protect your deductions and avoid costly surprises.

A recent Tax Court decision serves as a warning for self-employed taxpayers: without strict records, the IRS will disallow travel and vehicle deductions.

09/02/2026

Should you pay down debt or keep investing? In today’s higher-rate environment, the answer isn’t as simple as it used to be. From high-interest debt to emergency savings and employer matches, the right move depends on your full financial picture. Read now to see what may make the most sense for you.

Higher interest rates change the debt vs. investing decision. Learn how debt, savings, retirement goals, and taxes can affect your choice.

09/01/2026

Executor duties can get risky fast—especially when taxes are involved. Did you know you could be held personally liable if estate tax issues are missed before assets are distributed? Learn the key steps to protect yourself and the estate. Read now.

Learn how to protect your personal assets as an executor. Understand liability triggers, key IRS forms like 56 and 5495, and how to obtain a discharge.

08/31/2026

Planning for tomorrow starts today. A solid succession strategy helps protect your business, reduce disruption, and ensure leadership changes happen smoothly when the time comes. Curious what it takes to secure your transition? Find out how proactive planning can safeguard everything you’ve built.

Discover how succession planning protects your business continuity and ensures a smooth leadership transition. Contact Christiansen Accounting for advice.

08/31/2026

Succession planning helps ensure a smooth transition, protects business continuity, and reduces disruption when key people leave or pass away.

08/28/2026

Got a NYC property notice in the mail? It doesn’t necessarily mean you owe a new tax—but it could affect your real estate strategy. Learn why these preliminary letters matter, what to check first, and how to protect yourself from costly mistakes. Read now.

NYC is mailing preliminary notices for the new pied-à-terre tax on high-value non-primary homes. Find out what steps to take next with Christiansen Accounting.

08/27/2026

Estimated taxes aren’t just for April—September 15 is a key deadline for anyone with income not fully covered by withholding. A small mid-year payment can help you avoid a surprise tax bill and possible penalties later. Curious if you need to pay? Read now and stay ahead.

Stay on track for the September 15, 2026 estimated tax deadline. Learn who must pay, safe harbor rules, and how to avoid underpayment penalties.

08/26/2026

Your 50s can be the most powerful decade for retirement planning—but only if you use it wisely. From catch-up contributions to tax-saving moves you may be missing, the decisions you make now can shape your retirement for decades. Read now to see how to make the most of this crucial window.

Maximize your savings and minimize lifetime taxes. Learn how to navigate catch-up rules, the Rule of 55, and Roth conversions in the decade before retirement.

08/25/2026

Donating appreciated stock can be a smart win-win: you may give more to charity and potentially save more on taxes by avoiding capital gains. Curious how it works—and when it’s most beneficial? Read now to see if this strategy fits your giving plan.

Learn how donating long-term appreciated stock directly to charity maximizes your deduction while avoiding capital gains taxes. Get tips from our experts.