Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer's Blog

When should you think abouut your 2013 taxes?

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:49:31 -0700

NOW!!!

I see people all the time that say...I wish I woulda...

When you are prepareing this years taxes...start thinking about next years.

Capital improvments are a big one. Which ones are needed and which ones are just right for the timing.

The best time to save on your tax Bill for next year is TODAY!!!

Less than 30 days to file your taxes.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:34:36 -0700

As always, I am starting to see a rush of people working on filing their taxes.

There are two busy times. The first are those who know they will get money back and file ASAP.

The second will be right after April 1st. Not many opening in my schedule for the late comers and it is like that for most tax preparer's.

Do yourself a favor and file early.

Even if you think you need to file an extension...get it done early! You can wait to send in the check and the forms until the last day, but don't wait to get them filled out.

Take a load off. Beat the rush!

Thanks to my friend Bill Feela for the photo.

Help save our Senior Center....February 17th.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 13:01:57 -0800

This is a very important issue facing amny, many places all around this country. WE have gotten our priorities out of sync. WE are penalizing the people who have made this country great. Bill has given us just one speck of a Nation wide problem. To start with, we need to support this cause...then move on to the next one!

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

I blogged before about the complete funding cut for the North Branch/Chisago County Minnesota senior center.

The workers for the center have done a lot of fund raising over the years, and now the county and city say they will not fund the center.

This center is not only for the seniors, but for the public. It irks me that we can keep giving to the illegals, but when it comes to our seniors who have worked hard over the years to build this country get penalized because of budget shortfalls, but other programs go on for people here that are not legal.

The workers at the center are doing a fund raiser to try and keep the center open. A dinner and silent auction for the 17th of February has been planned.

Tickets are limited but we are still looking for donations for the silent auction.

Call for your ticket at...651-674-8658.

Norovirus...Hard to kill

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 07:15:27 -0800

Bill has brought up some good points. Just because the first virus is on it's way out doesn't mean we can let our guard down. If you got the first flu virus, it still does not protect you from the 2nd one. We all need to protect each other during this infectious time.

It takes very little contact to catch it and you are still contagious for as long as 2 weeks after.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

This new virus strain is hitting the Nation and experts say there is very little you can do.

Hand sanitizers will NOT kill it. Basically...other than BLEACH...it is one tough bug to beat.

Washing hands is still very important, but it needs to be more than 30 seconds and under the nails also.

This virus will spread on everything and it doesn't wash off easily. Even hand washed dishes will still have the virus on them because you can't get the water hot enough.

Hand shaking is the worst thing you can do...Direct Contact is out!

The information available is pages long. Just google it! If yo like horror films, this should be right up your alley!

This is for my wood cutting friends!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 14:30:00 -0800

My Friend Bill Feela has come up with some great photo's of people who cut firewood, but have way to much time on their hands.

I don't know of anyone who would take the time to do any of these with maybe the exception of the one that is inside the home.

Enjoy and watch for the next 2 segments

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

For those of you who follow my blog, you know that I cut fire wood.

A LOT OF FIRE WOOD!!!

WE heat the entire house and my shop with just wood, unless we are gone for more than a day.

This work, as many people call it, saves me close to $5000 a year and about $45 a month in health club fees.

Because I cut a lot of wood, there is a fair amount of time involved so I am efficient with that time. Although I do stack most of my wood I don't get creative like these folks.

But not everyone is as strapped for time as I am. the attached pics will prove that.

WOOD CUTTERS....ENJOY!!!

This takes a lot of time! There will be two more parts to this segment as it gets even more interesting.

Is a Family member giving you a gift to use for your Business?

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 15:24:51 -0800

This can be a good thing, but remember..all business items that YOU buy for your everyday business needs are deductible.

So, you may want to consider getting the receipt (if the person will part with it). The deduction is always a good thing to have.

Also...having the receipt is a good thing if something goes wrong in a short time.

Either way...this is something to consider! It is sorta like double dipping.

The Time is coming...

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:30:56 -0700

It has been a really nice year in many areas.

Although we have been plagued by drought and wild fires, it has been a nice summer.

But, the time is coming for those who filed extensions for their taxes. Every year, I get several that wait until the last couple of days to come to me.

For those who filed extensions with me in April, they will be getting a card in the mail in the next few days.

Don't become a statistic. File your returns now!

Tomato Juice anyone?

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:01:07 -0700

I was sent this photo. I don't know where it came from but it is very cure.

First off, the kids most likely had no idea of what they had.

Can you imagine them calling out...

MOM...COME LOOK AT THE KITTENS!

Ahhh, yes. To be young and innocent.

Can you Post Date my extension?

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:11:47 -0700

I got this question asked me and I nearly fell on the floor.

"I forgot to file for an extension and now I am late. Can you back date one for me?"

"NO". The IRS goes by POST MARK.

With all the warnings the news had opn this, (You would have thought they were covering a disaster) This person Forgot.

Well, after the possible penalty they get, they will remember next year.

A Day Off!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:22:32 -0700

After working for 4 weeks 7 days a week, on tax returns...I am taking a day off.

But, it will only be for one day. There are some last minute people who have refunds coming that want their returns done now!

I am not complaining...it is Job security.

But for today...the day belongs to me! Now, just to find a place to hide where no one will find me.

This is it!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 06:43:26 -0700

Today is the DAY! Last day to get your taxes sent off.

No I don't have time to prepare any returns, I am doing extensions all day.

Now, if are one of those who did their taxes early but didn't file right away, (why give Uncle Sam the money any sooner than needed) you better dig them out and get them SENT.

Last year two of my clients filed late and got the penalty because they forgot to send them in on time.

Need an extension...call me! I can still get that done!

Tax Deadling is fast approaching.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 06:48:46 -0700

It is the same every year. I will have someone walk into my office and want their returns done in a day.

Right now I am almost 4 days behind. If you have a longer return, I am already planning on the extensions.

Extensions cost money to do It is good for my business, but harder on my clients pocket books. Still looking to file on time. Call me or call you current preparer and make an appointment.

Tomorrow may be to late!

April 16th...Tax Day, is approaching fast!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 09:21:33 -0700

Time is flying by. many people here in Minnesota are preoccupied with the great weather.

Time to get ourselves back on track. In about a week or so, I will be so busy, like most accountants, that I will not be able to get your taxes done before the due date.

If you don't have a date to get your taxes prepared, make one NOW! It will also give you some motivation to get on it before it is the night before.

Retirement...The NEW American Dream?

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:55:51 -0700

This is an interesting twist on the American Dream. It is one that Bill Feela bings up in this blog and one that we all must think of. If I had parents of nearing retirement age I would be taling to them to see what needs to be done to make sure they are secure. I am going to do that right away for myself.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

Buying a piece of the earth used to be the BIG American Dream. Immigrants all over the world would come here for this Milk and Honey Dream.

But now days in this job market and rising costs, more and more seniors as saying that they Dream more about the ability to Retire.

Many have said that home ownership would be a second choice if they had to pick one or the other.

For many of us, we already have the American dream. So, try and set yourself back before you bought your first home. Look at the economy and ask yourself which would be your American Dream today.

So which is it?

For me, it would still be home ownership, but it is a very hard choice!

Rent to own.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:22:43 -0800

Bill has made a valid point in his blog. I just did the taxes of someone who is buyer a rent to own home. The fees were astronomical! There are also some built in fees in the contract that my tax clients did see. NO representation.

Much care needs to be taken when entering into a contact like this.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

This is more for the sellers. Should you rent your property to someone that is going to buy it.

Scenario...I have a seller who received an offer. The buyer wants to rent the house until they sell ther home out of state. My sellers think this is great because they don't need to sell in order to move.

Problems we need to make sure are covered...

Price for the home is agreed upon.
The list price for the buyers home is in the market price range for the area.
The area the buyers home is has a market that is fairly active.
The buyers home is NOT in a short sale or late on payments.
Earnest money down. (Possibly non-refundable if the sale does not close)
Proof that the buyer can perform.
How much time to give the buyers to sell.
Should there be a damage deposit in case the deal falls through.
Rental contract and rental amount.
Does any of the rent monies go towards the purchase. (I say NO)
What action does it take to get rid of the buyers if they can't perform.

There are even more issues depending on the property.

Renting may be an option, but if a sale is the main object, look very close at all the issue that could complicate the object.

It is chilly today so My grand Daughter is bundled up.

Tax Tips for lost Receipts.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:04:29 -0800

For some of the lost receipts that you can't find, try this.

Call the vendor and ask for a copy.

The phone companies will give you the info right over the phone.

So will Cell phone providers.

Medical and pharmacies will give you a printout for the year.

Credit card interest will be on your last statement.

Banks will give you the amount of your mortgage interest if you just ask.

Many receipts can be reproduced if you ask the vendor.

You could always just guess, but you could be wrong and guess low. A few quick phone calls can get you on the right track with most all of your deduction.

No reason to wait to do your taxes...

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:54:28 -0800

Many people wait until the last minute to have their taxes done. For some it is because they don't want to pay in until the 15th.

Well, just because your have your taxes filled out before the 15th of April does not mean that you have to file them and send in the check.

I have had several people tell me that is why they wait until the last minute to have their taxes done. The problem with waiting, if you are missing something and have to look for it, you may not get filed on time. Then you need to do an extension and that also costs money.

Do yourself a favor and have your taxes done NOW! It will give you plenty of time to find all your info and you will find a tax preparer that isn't working on your return with only 2-3 hours of sleep for the past week or more.

Avoid the Rush and Avoid the Mistakes.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:06:02 -0800

Now it the best time to get on your tax return. Tax prepares like myself are not busy yet and so have plenty of time to go over your return.

Most of you also are not overly busy so it is a great way to fill the slack time productively.

I know, many of you are saying that you don't want to pay in before you have to. But, having your taxes prepared now does not mean you have to send them in until the April 15th deadline.

Save yourself the stress and possible mistakes by getting this unpopular task done ow.

If you are Adopting a Family for Christmas...you need to call NOW!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:44:37 -0800

For this time of year, this is a very important Blog. The needs are great. A person doesn't need to do a lot, but even one small toy can make a difference. A few canned goods.

We need to put ourselves in the position of those in need. Granted, not all are worthy of this generosity, but it is not for us to judge.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

My wife and I have adopted a family or two for many years. We love to see the faces light up. We also do some anonymous giving also.

There are many families that can use a hand this year and if you are so inclined, you need to call and get the names and a list RIGHT AWAY!!!!

Where should you call?

Salvation Army.

Good Will.

Churches.

City Hall.

Food Shelves.

Most any organization in your community that helps the unfortunate can help you with the name of a family and what their needs may be.

Can't do an entire Family, there are still toy Drop Boxes, Food shelves, Coat drops and the Organizations listed above that can use a hand or and extra 10 spot or two.

It does not matter if you want to meet the family when the gifts are delivered, (You may make some new friends) or you can stay anonymous. Just put yourself in their shoes.

Thanksgiving Humor

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 21:53:41 -0800

I know that it is the day after Thanksgiving, but, after all the hard work we go through preparing a great meal and get things ready for our families, I thought that some humor would calm us down.

Bill Feelaposted this the other day and I ran into it just today again.

Take a look and enjoy. Pop over and let himknow what you think!

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

We are entering into a few days that should be fun and memories made.

Here are just a small few funnies to get our mood light...

WE need smiles and laughter today and into tomorrow for after the turkey has been devoured....there will be enough misery to deal with!

To everyone here....Happy Thanksgiving!

And it has happened again!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 10:10:41 -0800

People need to stop listening to the doom and gloom of the media. They are partially to blame for our problems. Good news gets one broadcast and then they are back to any bad.

Homes are selling. There are less foreclosures in many areas and less notices of foreclosures.

This may be that last chance to get a deal.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

Well, not all markets are in such a depressed state. If you are looking at my main market...North Branch, Minnesota, things are moving fairly quickly.

If you have a nice home and it is price reasonable you can expect possible multiple offers if you are priced under $135,000.

I have a client that we have put in 4 offers, all at or above list and have been beat out on all of them. One we were even 10% above list and did not get it.

So, If you are sitting on the fence waiting for the bottom to hit...you had better get off and fast or you will be looking up at prices more often!

But...I can't save money for a down payment.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 13:16:31 -0700

WE all hear this statement from time to time. Bill has outlined some ways to help people see where extra money can come from.

He talks short term and long term.

Take a look and see for yourself. it may open doors for a few clients.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

I again heard this from a client. We have him qualified, and all he needs to do is save $2000. He has $1000.

He cliams he and his wife have no extra money to save.

"How bad do you want to buy a house?" I asked them both.

"WE would do most anything," they both said. So we started.

Week day for work. Both have office jobs. Both buy all their drinks and meals from work or another restaurant. When I explained that they did not NEED 5 latte's in a day. Bring candy bars and chips from home. They could also brown bag it a couple days a week. We came up with a saving between them of just over $300. A WEEK!

WE looked at Cell phone contracts and use. We looked at cable TV.

A big one was car Pooling. They work 5 miles apart. And start and get off work within a 1/2 hour. Instead of driving separately they will ride together. Savings of $20 a day just on gas not to mention oil changes.

This couple ate out 4 days a week on average. Now, 1 day for a night out, and set a limit on the amount they would spend on a meal. About 1/2 of normal meals.

This was some of the short term things we looked at.

Long term:

Deductibles on car, home and health ins.

Adjustable thermostats for heat and cooling.

Run their current cars for an extra two years.

Turn off lights and replace worn equipment with energy efficient ones. ie; appliances.

This is just a small amount of saving that can be had. Many of us, me included spend on things that we want, not NEED.

My hats off to this couple. The first 2 weeks, they have saved just over $900. We are now actively looking to buy!

I wish more of my clients had the same drive as this couple does.

It is once again time to thank our Troops!

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 09:50:25 -0700

Bill has come up with a very simple but a very importnt thought. During Memorial weekend everyone herre was all about honoring our troops and that were should all year long. Yet when he posted a thank you to them, there were few comments. I guess we don't always mean what we say.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

I know many of you are wondering what Holiday it is. That seams to be the only time we talk about honoring our men and women in uniform.

Well, back on Memorial day a lot of us talked about honoring our troop smore often. But, as life has it, other things come up and we forget.

Well, Todya I want to say thanks to all the active and to all the Verterans that have made this country what it is.

I am going to do my best to keep this group out in front of my life more often.

Salute!!!!!

A Cell Phone I can understand.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 22:48:20 -0700

This hit my funny. My Broker, Bill Feela has a great sense of humor just like he shows right here. If you are looking for a laugh or a good Nature blog, check him out, you won't be sorry.

Now, if I can only find this store!

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

Finally, I got a new cell phone.

I looked high and low for this model and finally I found it.

It is very simple to use. (Fits my simple mind!)

I found it at the "Verizon cell phones for Seniors store." This store only accepts cash and counter checks, no Credit cards! (You may have to consult your grandparents as to what a counter check is)

Now, you do have to be old to appreciate this. But I am now at ease when I call.

x

x

x

x

x

I also know that many of you will not understand this new phone.

x

x

x

x

It is so simple that even both of my Grandmothers would understand it.

x

x

x

x

OK you young Whipper Snappers, look out because Bill Feela is now on your playing level!

Don't for get DAD on this Mother's Day.

Randi Brammer /Accountant & Tax Preparer (Randi Brammer, Acctg.) — Sun, 08 May 2011 10:11:05 -0700

Bill has come up with yet another great thought. When one parent is missing, the other one can still be hurting and a kind word for them is always a great idea. This scenario is a common one and one to give great thought to.

Via William Feela Realtor 651-674-5999 No. Branch,MN (WHISPERING PINES REALTY):

To some, this may sound out of place. But, just think about this for a minute.

Those of you who have lost your Mom, but still have Dad, today can be an emotional one. Some Dad's will have tried to move on and re-married or at least have a steady friend. Others are going it alone.

The point is, Dad is also thinking about your Mom and his early loss. Give him a call or stop by and share a few memories with him of Mom.

It is an easy way to brighten the day for him.

This also works great the opposite way for Father's Day!

Ladies...Happy Mother's Day!