Top Financial Mistakes Construction Contractors Make and How to Avoid Them

Accounting

The construction industry is no stranger to financial challenges. Long project timelines, significant material orders, and upfront labor expenses often characterize this type of work. Construction contractors need careful management of their finances to ensure financial stability and profitability. With help from a South Jersey accountant, you can avoid these issues that lead to reduced profitability, missed deadlines, and even bankruptcy. Here are the top financial mistakes construction contractors make and how to avoid them in your company.

Not Documenting All Work

In the construction industry, project managers can make changes on the fly without proper documentation. However, this can lead to a wide range of financial challenges for contractors, including reduced profit margins and even losses on a project. Unfortunately, these problems stem from the industry’s split-second nature, where decisions and changes are based on a brief conversation and a handshake. Without proper documentation, these changes may go unnoticed and unrecorded, leading to additional costs that may not be billed.

If you want to address this challenge, you need to implement better processes to facilitate mid-project changes. You will need a detailed scope of work, which outlines all project requirements and specifications from the start of the project. The scope should be supported by a detailed change order process that allows contractors to put together pricing and document project changes before sending them to the finance team for invoicing. By implementing these processes, contractors can avoid undocumented changes and ensure all work is invoiced. With that, you can reduce the risk of financial losses and improve your company’s overall profitability.

Late Invoices and Missing Bank Draws

Projects often have invoice submission deadlines for monthly draws from the bank. Missing these deadlines can result in delayed payments and cash flow issues. Late invoicing can significantly impact a construction company’s financial health. If workers and vendors are not paid on time, the company’s financial risk increases, leaving a lack of available cash to put back into the business. The causes of late invoicing can vary, but common issues include lax reporting systems, poor communication between the field and finance departments, or an overworked financial team.

Consider hiring contractor accounting services to address these challenges to ensure all invoices are submitted on time. By addressing these issues proactively, you can ensure workers and vendors are paid on time.

Insufficient Cash Reserves

Sometimes, the construction company will have to cover the labor and material expenses before receiving a full payment from the client. As a result, construction companies may need help to cover costs and make essential payments, such as payroll. This can lead to unnecessary loans or payment delays, which can accrue interest costs or cause distrust among vendors and employees. Insufficient cash reserves can be a significant issue for construction companies since it limits their ability to grow their business.

If you want to avoid these issues, consider requiring a 25-50% deposit on projects, which can help reduce the labor and material costs being fronted by your company. You can also renegotiate vendor contracts to extend billing cycles or pay some or all expenses after completing the project. However, this approach works best when a good, trusting relationship with vendors exists. By implementing these strategies, you can reduce your financial risk, keep more cash on hand, and preserve working capital to grow the business more strategically. Additionally, having sufficient cash reserves can help you weather seasonal fluctuations and unforeseen circumstances, providing a foundation for long-term success in the industry.

Misunderstanding and Misallocating Costs

When it comes to understanding costs in the construction industry, you need to have a clear and comprehensive understanding of all the expenses associated with a project, including materials, labor, equipment, and administrative costs. Without an understanding of expenses, construction companies may be pricing jobs incorrectly, resulting in projects that are destined to be unprofitable. By properly allocating and tracking costs for each project, companies can gain a more accurate view of their profitability and make more informed business decisions.

You will want to analyze your income statements and identify costs that need to be properly allocated. When you take a more strategic approach to cost allocation and tracking, you can maximize profits on all projects and achieve greater overall profitability.

Front-Loading Costs

Front-loading costs refer to spending a large amount of money upfront in a project’s early stages. Permits and site preparation expenses are all included in this practice. While it may seem necessary to get a project off the ground, front-loading costs can lead to cash flow problems later on in the project when the money runs out before completion. Front-loading costs can strain a construction company’s cash flow. In turn, the company may need to take out loans or delay vendor payments, which can negatively impact business relationships. Additionally, it may result in a project’s completion taking longer than anticipated, leading to potential penalties and damages.

You should develop a comprehensive project plan outlining expenses and expected timelines to prevent front-loading costs. With that, you can allocate resources and manage cash flow more effectively. Additionally, consider spreading costs throughout a project, negotiating with vendors for payment terms, and setting aside contingency funds to cover unexpected expenses.

Consider TMD Accounting for Your Construction Company Financial Needs

As a family-owned and- operated accounting firm, we have extensive experience assisting with accounting for construction business clients. Our team provides personalized, high-quality service to meet your financial situation. See how we can help your construction company succeed. Call us at 856-228-2205 to schedule a consultation.

The Importance of Accuracy in Payroll Processing for NJ Businesses

Payroll

As a small business owner, you understand the need for accuracy. When it comes time for your payroll, you want to ensure that workers receive fair compensation for their labor. If you don’t manage your payroll, it can harm your business’s reputation and future prospects. You need an accurate system in place to avoid any issues for your company. Here are a few things to know about payroll processing so that you can prevent problems in the future.

Accurate Payroll Processing Is Vital for Your Business

You want to ensure that your business has accurate payroll processing measures in place. First, you want to make sure that all your employees receive fair compensation for their jobs. Missing a payment or using the incorrect rate can lead to frustration and distrust, resulting in increased turnover rates and decreased productivity from your employees.

Along with that, you always want to avoid any potential legal issues. Failing to pay your employees can lead to fines, legal fees, and lawsuits. As a result, it could damage your financial stability and the company’s reputation.

With a precise payroll processing system, you can maintain a positive public image for your business. You can attract more customers and employees when you are known for treating employees fairly and providing accurate compensation. In turn, that can lead to increased growth opportunities and profits.

Accurate payroll processing is essential for maintaining employee satisfaction, avoiding legal issues, promoting transparency and trust, and presenting a positive public image. For that reason, you will want to prioritize your payroll processing to ensure the long-term success of your business.

Why Do You Need to Outsource Your Payroll Processing?

Outsourcing payroll processing has become a popular option for businesses of all sizes. There are many benefits of outsourcing this task. It can help companies to streamline their operations while minimizing errors and ensuring compliance with regulations. Here are some key reasons you may want to consider outsourcing your payroll.

Cost Savings

Outsourcing payroll processing saves you money on staffing costs, equipment, and software. With these services, you no longer have to spend time and money training your in-house staff on complex payroll systems and regulations.

Time Savings

Outsourcing payroll processing can free up valuable time so that you can focus on other areas of the business. Hiring a company to handle your payroll can be beneficial if you have a small business. These companies often don’t have time to manage payroll by themselves.

Accuracy and Compliance

Payroll processing companies ensure that payrolls are processed accurately, on time, and in compliance with regulations. These services help to minimize errors and reduce the risk of penalties and fines for non-compliance. They also keep up to date with changes in tax laws and regulations, ensuring that your payroll is always compliant. This can help you avoid costly penalties and fines from the state and federal governments.

Data Security

Outsourcing payroll processing can help ensure that your sensitive employee information is secure. Payroll processing companies use the latest technology and security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access.

Expertise

Finally, these companies have the expertise and resources to handle all aspects of payroll processing, including complex tax calculations, employee benefits, and regulatory compliance. With that, you can ensure that your payroll is accurate and compliant while reducing the risk of errors.

Choosing the Right Payroll Processing Service for Your Small Business

When it comes to choosing a payroll service or South Jersey accountant, there are several factors that you should consider when selecting the best option for your business needs. Here are a few tips for choosing small business accounting services for your company.

Track Record of Success

You want to work with a firm with a proven track record of honesty and accuracy in handling federal, state, and local tax filings and payments. You should also know if the firm encourages clients to verify payroll tax payments using well-known methods, such as the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS).

Insured

A reputable payroll processor should have errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, a fidelity bond for crime protection, and cyber liability coverage to protect against potential losses or damages.

Solid Reputation

Along with integrity and insurance, you will also want to consider the reputation of the payroll service provider. The right firm should provide you with a long list of references who can vouch for the quality of their services. Make sure to contact these references and ask them specific questions to ensure that the provider offers excellent customer service.

Latest Technology

The payroll service provider should have the latest technology that seamlessly integrates payroll processing with employee time tracking and human resource management. Additionally, the service should offer employees a secure portal to access their pay and other relevant information. A reliable time and attendance system will be instrumental in tracking employee attendance, work hours, and paid time off.

Find an Accountant for My Small Business

Setting up proper payroll processing practices is crucial for the success of any business, no matter its size. At TMD Accounting, we have a team of expert accountants who can help create a payroll plan to pay your employees and keep your business compliant. We provide payroll and bookkeeping services to companies in various industries, including automotive and body shops, healthcare, construction, hospitality, restaurants, and professional services. If you would like to learn about our services, please contact us at 856-228-2205.

Simplifying Payroll Processing for NJ Business: An Overview

Payroll

One of the most time consuming aspects of running a business is payroll processing. Although it may sound simple to compute the hours an employee works and cut them a check, the fact is that there are many other aspects to payroll processing that many business owners do not consider. These include payroll taxes, wage garnishments, labor regulations regarding hours and breaks as well as making sure payroll is executed and issued in a timely manner. The team at TMD Accounting offers these tips for simplifying your payroll processes.

Budget for Payroll

One of the biggest mistakes business owners make, according to small business accounting services, is not budgeting for their payroll costs. Keep in mind that payroll involves more than just paying your staff. You will need to have enough budgeted to not only cover employee salaries, but also withholding taxes that must be submitted to the Internal Revenue Service, your state, and your local government quarterly. What many new business owners don’t understand is that although your employee has FICA and Medicare tax withdrawn from their checks, as an employer you are also required to match those amounts. Therefore, you want to be sure that your budget includes the salary plus the taxes you will be required to submit.

Consider a Separate Bank Account

Although you are able to pay your staff from your main business account, using a separate account for payroll may help make your cash flow more transparent. When your company is growing, this can help you budget more easily. It will also help you keep better track of your payroll taxes, the cost of the benefits you offer as well as other deductions you may need to withdraw from your employee’s payroll checks.

Choose a Payday and Stick with It

Your employees expect to receive a paycheck at regular intervals and while there are pros and cons to the various time periods you use for payroll, whether it is weekly, bi-weekly, twice a month or monthly, once you decide when payroll will be issued, small business accounting services suggest you stick with that schedule. Keep in mind that the more often you pay your employees, the more you will need to track your withholdings which is why many employers use the bi-weekly or twice monthly methods for payroll says a South Jersey accountant.

Salary or Hourly?

One of the most frequently asked questions when people ask “is an account for my small business necessary” is whether paying employees a salary or paying them hourly is the best option. This may depend on the business you are in as well as what each employee does. In most cases, management will be placed on salary as their duties are more complex. Paying hourly requires a bit more work as you will need a method to track each employee’s hours every pay period. If you outsource your payroll to small business accounting services, they often have mechanisms in place that will track your employee hours for you.

Use Direct Deposit

Research indicates that more than 80 percent of all Americans are paid via direct deposit, and this is one of the best ways to streamline your payroll services. Direct deposit allows you to review reports before you transfer funds to your staff. There is no need for stacks of checks that need to be signed, envelopes to keep payroll private concerns about lost checks or any of the other issues that you face when you issue paper checks.

Payroll Policies

Another critical error many business owners make is not having policies in place for their employees and this is especially true of payroll. When you hire a new employee, there will be documents they need to provide, including copies of Social Security cards, filling out a W9 form as well as any benefit paperwork. Consider issuing a payroll policy that has time sheet deadlines, information about taking sick or vacation time, reimbursement for business expenses and more. You and the employee should sign the policy with a copy given to the employee as well as one in their personnel file.

Set Up Reminders

It is likely your employees will not be pleased if you forget to pay them, and it will be difficult to retain staff if you consistently make mistakes in their paychecks. Although using a South Jersey accountant will help prevent these errors, you can also make sure things are done in a timely fashion by setting reminders for yourself. These may simply be a reminder to submit approved forms in time for checks to be issued or one so that you remember quarterly taxes must be submitted.

Electronic Tax Filing

The IRS offers the option to file payroll taxes rather than mail in forms and a check. It is likely your state and local governments offer that as well. This helps eliminate the risk of payments arriving late and helps you remain compliant with the law. Usually, you will receive an instant confirmation that your payment was received which you can file for your records.

If you are asking “will an accountant for my small business help with payroll,” the answer is yes. TMD Accounting has been offering accounting services for more than 40 years as a family-owned and operated South Jersey accountant. Contact our team today about your payroll needs by calling 1-856-228-2205 or fill out the easy online contact form.

The Benefits of Choosing TMD Accounting as Your South Jersey Small Business Accountant

Accounting, Small Business

When you own a small business, you wear many hats. Not only are you responsible for the day-to-day operations of your company, but you are also responsible for making sure your employees are paid in a timely fashion, that taxes are paid properly and that your financial records are complete. This includes accounts payable, accounts receivable, balance sheets and more.

 

For the average business owner, dealing with financial matters can be stressful and you may begin to resent the time you spend on them, especially when you would rather be interacting with customers or developing new products. That is where TMD Accounting, your small business accountant in NJ, can help.

Bookkeeping Assistance

One of the ways a small Jersey accountant can help your company is by handling the bookkeeping services necessary to organize your finances. There are many options today for bookkeeping software and a small business accountant in NJ can help you choose one that fits your business needs. They will also be sure to choose options that will grow with your company. Of course, the answer to “why should I use an accountant for my small business when I have staff who does my bookkeeping” is simple. Your accounting staff needs guidance and may need training on the software that is chosen, something a small Jersey accountant can assist with.

Monitor Your Company’s Financial Health

Another important reason to work with TMD Accounting is to monitor the financial health of your business. A critical part of any company’s financial health is cash flow, and most business owners are unaware of the various formulas necessary to improve it or address any issues with it. Working with a small business accountant in NJ will provide you with a monitoring system to watch all transactions in your company and make sure that money is moving in and out of the business properly.

Tax Code Changes

The United States has a complicated tax code that changes quite frequently. It is almost impossible for a business owner who is not familiar with the tax code to handle that aspect of their company properly. Forms submitted to federal, state and local governments must be accurate or you could face penalties that may be extensive. If you are asking, why you should use an “accountant for my small business,” tax regulations should be at the top of the list.

Forensic Accounting

Although you may trust your accounting staff implicitly, the news is filled with stories of people who were trusted and took advantage of that trust. Using a small business accountant in NJ will provide you with a level of forensic accounting that could discover problems in your financial system. Although the problems may not be signs of fraud, they may simply be incorrect data in your financial software, funds not placed in the proper account or simply a misunderstanding about how a financial matter should be handled.

Business Transitions

Businesses undergo transitions over time, whether it is a shift in ownership, merges or a change in products or services. When your company is undergoing any type of transition, using a south Jersey accountant is critical to be sure the transition goes smoothly. They can identify any possible risks that may occur during the transition or threats to the business that could result in devastating consequences if not addressed. As the transition progresses, a small business accountant in NJ can put financial processes in place to protect your interests and the interests of your stakeholders.

Focus on Other Aspects of Business

One of the most important answers to “why should I hire an accountant for my small business” is that it allows you to focus on other aspects of your business. As a business owner, you may find yourself taking on too many responsibilities in an effort to reduce costs. In the financial aspect of your company, however, this can lead to errors that could be very costly.

 

In addition, when you are focusing on day-to-day finances, you are not focusing on other matters related to running a business. When you started your business, you had a vision of how it would operate and without financial guidance, that vision may become blurred. In order to pay more attention to the things that made you start your company in the first place, your products or services, allow a south Jersey accountant to focus on your financial health.

Cost Savings

It may seem counter-intuitive that hiring a small business accountant in NJ will save money, but the fact is that their expertise can do just that. A south Jersey accountant will look over your finances and pinpoint where the money is going, providing you on areas where you can save while also identifying tax breaks that can reduce how much you will owe each quarter. They can help you avoid penalties and fines by filing your tax forms regularly as well. One of the best ways to view the hiring of a south Jersey accountant is as an investment, not an expense.

Looking For a South Jersey Accountant?

If you are considering an accounting service for your business, contact TMD Accounting today to learn more about our small business and personal accounting services. Our motto is “where numbers matter and people count,” something our team lives by each day. With over 40 years’ experience as a south Jersey accountant, TMD Accounting can help your business grow while protecting your financial interests. Family-owned and operated, our staff is flexible and reliable, and we always keep our services affordable. Contact TMD Accounting today by filling out the easy online form or call 1-856-228-2205.

Managing Cash Flow as a Contractor: Tips and Tricks

Accounting, Small Business

There is no question that one of the hardest industries for managing cash flow is the contracting business. Whether you are a construction business or an independent contractor of another kind, there are common mistakes that you may be making that hamper your cash flow. Check out these tips and tricks if you are a contractor who wants to maximize your cash flow and keep your business running smoothly.

Importance of Budgeting

One of the first tips provided by a South Jersey accountant is to create a workable, manageable budget and stick to it in order to protect cash flow. With the right budget, you can see where your money is going, identify areas where you can reduce spending as well as areas where income may be increased. Independent contractor accounting services recommend that contractors create a budget for the next 18 to 24 months with a fluid cash flow model for the next six to a year.

 

By monitoring cash flow for those months, you will be able to identify periods when cash is limited, whether it is because business is slower due to inclement weather or there is a lull between projects. Not only will you be able to identify slower months, it will also allow you to identify months when cash is flowing more freely and allow you to adjust spending so you are able to hold onto some of that cash for the leaner months.

Build Savings

Contracting is often described as “feast or famine” where you have periods of the year when business is booming and others when there is little work coming in. For example, if you are a roofing contractor, you may have several months in the winter when there is little to no work. During the spring and summer, there may be days of zero rest. When you create your budget, you want to look at about six months of expenses and income. Total the amounts and divide by six to get a monthly average. Whenever your income exceeds what you budgeted, put the difference into savings. When you hit those lean times, you can use savings to carry you through if necessary.

Cash Flow by Project

Another tip offered by small business accounting services is to monitor cash flow by project. To do this, you will need to determine the time frame for the project that includes when each aspect of it will be completed, when you must disburse payments and when you have to bill the owner. This will help you accelerate receipts and realize a better cash flow from each project. Keep in mind for this method to work, you will need timely collection and billing processes, methods for disbursing payments and accurate scheduling. You can also ask for upfront deposits for long-term projects in order to keep your cash flow stable, small business accounting services recommend.

Avoid Low Revenue Projects and Underbidding

Too often, contractors are guilty of taking projects that will yield low revenue, especially when business is slow. In competitive markets, it is also tempting to underbid just to get the job. A South Jersey accountant advises against those options as they can include a significant amount of risk. Every bid issued should reflect your expertise, past performance and safety record as well as the technology you have invested in, your ability to meet deadlines and other qualifications that will encourage customers to choose you over another company.

Tax Savings

When it comes to taxes, you want to pay what you owe, but there is no reason to pay more than what you must pay. Tax codes have many deductions and some are designed specifically with contractors in mind. This is where independent contractor accounting services can be very beneficial as they can identify many tax savings that the average person is unaware exist. Look at any fixed assets you plan to purchase in the future to see if it might be more beneficial to purchase in this tax year to recover some of the costs in tax deductions. In this industry, many owners overlook fuel credit for use off-highway, research and development for improving a process or the deduction for creating energy-efficient buildings by installing upgraded HVAC, lighting and other features, according to a South Jersey accountant.

Living Better with Technology

Have you been putting off technological advancements because your cash flow is tight? You may think this is helping, but it could actually be having a negative impact on your budget.  There are many types of software today that can actually save you time which, in turn, saves you money. This means that outlaying funds for updated technology can actually improve your cash flow rather than reduce it. Independent contractor accounting service experts also say that technology can reduce human error and help your company run more efficiently.

Succession Planning

Although it may not seem to have an impact on cash flow, TMD Accounting, a South Jersey accountant explains that putting a plan in place for when you are no longer the owner is critical to the success of your business. It is one of the most important steps to creating a financially sound company. Not only will it make you rest easy that your company will continue after you have retired or passed on, it will indicate to employees that you intend to stay in business. This can help with employee retention while also helping promote investment in the future of your business.

Need Help Managing Your Cash Flow?

If you are struggling to manage the cash flow in your contracting business, contact TMD Accounting today to see how our friendly team can help. You can reach us by calling 1-856-228-2205 or filling out the easy online form. With 40 years’ experience, we live by our motto: “where numbers matter and people count.”

The Benefits of Working with a Local Payroll Company in NJ 

Payroll

When it comes to outsourcing payroll, as a small business owner you have many options. You can choose to use a large national company to handle your payroll processes, or you can go with a small business accountant in NJ. If you are considering outsourcing your payroll, then one of the best choices you can make is selecting a local payroll company, such as TMD Accounting.

Personalized Solutions

One thing that national companies do not offer that a small business accountant in NJ would is services that are personalized specifically for your company. Many times, national companies have a “one-size-fits-all” approach to payroll, requiring your employees to use the same time sheets that giant corporations use. This may mean that the options don’t fit what your staff actually does or that the computations are not as accurate as they could be.

Local Customer Service

Whenever you use a national service for a business process, you run the risk of customer service representatives that are in another city, another state, or even in some cases, in another country. Using a South Jersey accountant to handle your payroll needs brings you someone local who will understand your needs better than a person who lives hundreds or thousands of miles away. In fact, by choosing a payroll company in NJ, those working with you may be friends, family or neighbors of many of the people who work for you, bringing you even more personalized interaction with the people who are paying your employees.

Compliance and Regulations

Although the national companies are well-versed in IRS regulations, they may not be as knowledgeable about the requirements in your state. Even if they offer an office within the state which means they understand those regulations, they still may not understand local requirements and regulations. By choosing a South Jersey accountant, you are more likely to get someone who thoroughly understands the regulations and requirements of the area and not just IRS regulations.

Keep in mind that the United States passes around 8,000 laws each year and many of these can impact the tax code. At the state level, a recent study found that the average state passes 128,000 laws each year, 23 times more than the U.S. Congress. This is why having a small business accountant in NJ handling your payroll makes more sense than a national company who may only understand federal tax law.

Less Costly

When you choose to outsource your payroll to a small business accountant in NJ, it will likely cost you less than it would a national company. Although national companies may offer basic packages that seem to cost less, these usually are extremely basic and may not cover all the options you will need to adequately handle your payroll. By hiring a local payroll company in NJ, you may find that their basic package includes many more options which will actually save you money in the long run.

Dedicated Representatives

Another benefit to choosing local is having dedicated representatives who get to know your business and your employees. For example, at TMD Accounting, a knowledgeable payroll company in NJ, one of our team members will be tasked with learning the ins and outs of your business. The staff gets to know you and will have working knowledge of how you need your payroll system to operate. This will help your payroll system run much more smoothly and will actually save you money in the long run.

Human Interaction

Small business accountants in NJ offer a personal touch that many large, national companies do not offer. When you need a question answered and are working with one of the large companies, you may have difficulty reaching someone to help you. In fact, you may have difficulty talking to a human at all. Many offer websites that they claim have “the answers to all your questions” only for you to find out the questions have to be ones that a chatbot can answer. That means if your question is at all unusual, there will be no one who can help you. With a South Jersey accountant, you know that the phone will be answered by a human and your question, no matter how unusual, will be answered by a human.

Local Specialist

The main reason to choose a payroll company in NJ is that they are local specialists when it comes to payroll. They not only understand state and local laws, they also understand the people who work for you. They know how important payroll that is correct and timely is to your staff. They also understand how important complying with laws is to you as failing to do so could put your entire business at risk. A South Jersey accountant will make sure that your company is following the law and paying your staff correctly. Not only that, using a small business accountant in NJ can save you time, allowing you to focus on the things that will help your business grow rather than focusing that time on payroll.

If you are considering outsourcing your payroll, contact the expert South Jersey accountant firm of TMD Accounting. With more than 40 years’ experience in the industry, our team of accountants can help get and keep your payroll on track, make sure you are compliant with all laws and allow you to focus on the things that will help your business grow. Our motto, “where numbers matter and people count” is one we have lived by since we opened our doors. Family-owned and operated, we are here to help with all your payroll needs, so give us a call at 856-228-2205 or fill out the online contact form for more information.

Navigating the Complexities of Payroll with a South Jersey Accountant 

Payroll

Payroll management is a crucial task for any business, no matter its size. However, navigating the complexities of payroll can be complicated, especially for companies in South Jersey. With federal, state, and local regulations, tax rates, and compliance requirements, you will want an experienced accountant who can guide you through the process. Learn how to navigate payroll complexities with the assistance of a qualified accountant.

The Challenges of Payroll Management

Many factors can complicate payroll management in New Jersey. For example, the state has specific laws and regulations related to employee classification, overtime pay, sick leave, and vacation pay. Employers must follow these laws and regulations to avoid legal issues.

Additionally, there are specific requirements regarding recordkeeping and reporting, meaning employers must keep accurate records of their employees’ hours, pay rates, and deductions. If you fail to maintain accurate records, that can lead to legal issues and penalties.

Along with that, you must file both state and federal taxes. Once again, failing to file can lead to penalties and legal problems. New Jersey businesses must also pay state unemployment, workforce development, and disability insurance taxes.

State payroll management can be a complex and challenging task for businesses. For that reason, all companies can benefit from hiring an experienced accountant who can help them navigate through the complexities of payroll management and ensure compliance with all regulations.

The Benefits of Hiring a South Jersey Accountant for Payroll Management

Hiring a South Jersey accountant for payroll management can bring numerous benefits to your business, especially when navigating the complexities of processing and administration. An experienced accountant fully understands the regulations that impact payroll management, including minimum wage laws, tax rates, and unemployment insurance requirements.

Processing payroll can be time-consuming and tedious for businesses with many employees. An accountant can handle all aspects of payroll processing, from calculating employee wages to filing taxes. With help from a South Jersey accountant, you can save time and reduce the risk of errors.

Compliance is critical when it comes to payroll management. An accountant can help ensure businesses comply with all applicable regulations and avoid potential issues in the state. As previously mentioned, non-compliance with payroll regulations can result in penalties, fines, and legal issues. When you work with an accountant, you can reduce the risk of these negative consequences.

Services Provided by a South Jersey Accountant for Payroll Management

A South Jersey accountant can provide various services to help businesses with their payroll management needs. Here are some of the critical services that your accountant can offer to your business.

Payroll Processing and Management

An accountant can handle payroll processing, including calculating employee wages, tracking hours worked, and processing payroll checks. These professionals can help track payroll for both salaried and hourly employees.

Tax Filings and Compliance

When you hire an accountant, they will handle all payroll tax filings, including preparing and filing quarterly and annual tax returns. These professionals can also conduct any payroll tax audits that may occur.

Employee Benefits Administration

These individuals will help manage your employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and employee contributions.

Recordkeeping and Reporting

When you need accurate payroll records, turn to an accountant. These professionals will provide your business with regular payroll reports, handle payroll-related audits, and manage investigations.

Hiring a South Jersey accountant can streamline your payroll management processes, reduce the risk of errors and compliance issues, and ensure that the payroll records are accurate.

How to Choose the Right South Jersey Accountant for Your Business

When it comes time to select a South Jersey accountant for payroll management, there are several factors to consider to make the right choice. First, you want to look for a professional with relevant experience for the job. When evaluating potential accountants, find someone with experience working with businesses similar to yours. In addition, you should choose an accountant who understands the specific payroll tax laws and regulations that apply to your industry.

Effective communication is important when it comes to payroll management. Businesses should look for an accountant who is responsive to their needs and questions. These individuals should also be able to provide regular updates and reports on payroll processing.

While cost is important, you need to understand the value of small business accounting services. A low-cost accountant may seem like a good deal, but if they cannot provide the support needed to ensure accurate payroll management, the cost savings may not be worth it in the long run. You should look for an accountant who offers fair pricing and can provide a clear breakdown of costs and services.

By working with a knowledgeable and experienced South Jersey accountant, you can ensure they stay compliant with all applicable payroll tax laws and regulations. They can also streamline your payroll processing and reduce the risk of penalties and legal issues. You want to find an accountant with the expertise and skills to manage your payroll processes effectively.

Need an Accountant for My Small Business?

Contact TMD Accounting today to explore your options for hiring an accountant for your business. We provide personalized and attentive service to all of our clients. Our TMD Accounting team serves businesses in the automotive/body shops, healthcare, construction, hospitality, restaurants, and professional services industries. With over 40 years of accounting experience, our team will ensure your accounting needs are handled professionally and accurately. If you want to schedule a consultation, please call us at 856-228-2205.

Expert Tax Advice from a South Jersey Accountant 

Accounting, Tax Planning

Navigating the intricacies of tax season can be daunting, especially for business owners. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to streamline the process and make tax time more manageable. Here are a few expert tax tips from a South Jersey accountant.

Start the Recordkeeping Process Early

One of the most important steps in managing taxes for a small business is to set up a recordkeeping system right from the start. It can be easy to put that accounting work on hold when you’re focused on running your business. However, this can lead to chaos when tax season rolls around.

To avoid the last-minute scramble, track income and expenses year-round with help from a company specializing in small business accounting services. They can keep all the information in one place for you, making it easier when it comes to taxes. Outsourcing this work can save time and money in the long run. Plus, you will not miss out on deductions when you cannot find a receipt or invoice. Proper bookkeeping will keep all that information at your fingertips.

Claim All Reported Income

When managing your taxes as a small business owner, you want to ensure that you accurately report all of your income to the IRS. Remember that the IRS receives copies of the 1099-MISC forms, meaning they can cross-reference the income you report against what they know you’ve received. For that reason, you want to ensure that the amount of income you report to the IRS matches the amount reported in your 1099 forms.

Failing to report all of your income is a red flag for the IRS, and it could result in penalties, interest, and even an audit. Even if a client or customer doesn’t send you a 1099 form, you must still report any income you have received.

Along with federal taxes, you need to comply with state tax regulations. The rules regarding reporting and paying state taxes can vary. Make sure to check with your accountant or tax advisor to ensure that you are fulfilling all obligations. By accurately reporting your income and complying with tax regulations, you can avoid the stress and expense of dealing with IRS issues down the line.

Open a Business Checking Account

The importance of separating personal and business finances cannot be overstated. You need to open separate bank accounts for your business use. Separating business and personal accounts can simplify the recordkeeping process. During tax time, these separate accounts are very important. Accurate recordkeeping ensures you deduct the correct expenses and report your income properly. When you mix your finances, it can be challenging to determine which expenses are business-related or personal.

Remember that separate business accounts are not just a matter of convenience. The IRS often needs to determine whether a business is operated for profit or as a hobby. Having a separate account demonstrates that you are serious about your business and not just using it as a hobby.

Learn About All Your Deductions

Staying informed about qualified tax deductions can help you save money on your business taxes. While some deductions may seem obvious, others may surprise you. With tax laws changing frequently, you need to keep updated with laws to know what deductions are available to you.

For example, if you use part of your home to conduct business, you may be eligible for the home office deduction. By itemizing your home office expenses, you can generally receive a higher deduction than taking the simplified deduction. Additionally, you may be eligible for tax perks if you make energy-saving improvements to your business.

With that in mind, you will want to consult with your tax professional or use tax software to help identify potential deductions. You must stay informed and track the tax laws that affect your business. Otherwise, you may miss out on possible deductions that could save you money on your taxes.

Work With a Professional Accountant

If you want to ensure the financial success of your small business, find the right South Jersey accountant who can offer more than just tax preparation services. Your accountant should provide year-round support to help track your income and spending, monitor your profits, and ensure you avoid cash flow problems.

When searching for an accountant, you want to find someone knowledgeable about the specific needs of small businesses. They should be able to offer valuable advice on financial planning, budgeting, and investment opportunities. Your accountant should be your trusted business adviser.

Starting to work with an accountant from the beginning of your business venture can help you avoid costly financial mistakes and ensure the long-term financial health of your business. They can also help you stay on top of new tax laws and regulations and provide strategic financial advice. Hiring the right accountant can provide your business with year-round financial guidance. Along with that, they can help you make informed financial decisions for long-term success.

Do You Need an Accountant for My Small Business?

At TMD Accounting, we are a trusted family-owned and -operated accounting firm that has assisted numerous clients over the years. Our knowledgeable team is well-equipped to help with a range of services, from payroll to taxes. We specialize in helping automotive/body shops, healthcare, construction, hospitality, restaurants, and professional services businesses with their accounting and bookkeeping needs. Our team of professionals is ready to assist your business. Give us a call at 856-228-2205 to schedule a consultation.

Avoiding Common Payroll Mistakes: How NJ Companies Can Benefit from Outsourcing 

Payroll

Operating a business can be exciting and fulfilling, but it can also be challenging, especially when it comes to handling payroll. A business owner wants to keep stakeholders happy and one of the most important stakeholders is staff who expect to be rewarded financially for their skills. TMD Accounting provides you with these tips to help you avoid payroll errors and offers details on how outsourcing may be beneficial.

Payroll Delays

One common mistake when processing payroll is failing to complete the process in a timely manner. This can lead to delays in employees receiving compensation. With many people now setting their bills to be paid automatically and if their payroll is delayed, this could lead to overdraft charges as well as payments being returned for insufficient funds. This can also lead to dissatisfaction among employees. Small business accounting services recommend running payroll three to four days prior to payday. It is also important to keep in mind that bank holidays may also lead to a delay, so if a holiday falls around the date you normally process payroll, you may want to add an additional day of processing, so your employees are paid on time.

Tax Payments

Once you withhold taxes from your employees, you must then pay them to the proper entity. Most employees will have Social Security, Medicare, federal and state taxes deducted from their check while some areas may also have a county or city tax. In addition, you may have to withhold insurance payments or payments to retirement funds. It is imperative that anything withdrawn from an employee’s paycheck is sent to the proper location. South Jersey accounting services understand the law and are able to make sure that the proper amounts are withdrawn and that payments are made in a timely fashion and sent to the proper entity. Failure to properly handle employee withholdings can put your business at risk. In addition, paying your taxes late can incur a 10 percent or higher penalty.

Employee Classifications

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make in payroll is not properly classifying employees. Your staff is generally classified as either an employee or an independent contractor. Often, businesses will try to claim a staff member is an independent contractor in order to avoid paying payroll taxes. However, there are specific requirements that must be met for an employee to be an independent contractor. For instance, if your employee must report to work at a certain time each day and must request time off, they are likely not an independent contractor. Using the wrong classification can lead to significant penalties, according to a small business accountant in NJ.

Improper Records

Another common mistake is not keeping proper payroll records. Small business accounting services point out that pay stubs and other forms may be needed by employees many years after you issue them. This means you need to archive the data should they be needed in the future. In most cases, you will need to retain records for between three and seven years, although some may require retention even longer. If you issue paper checks on occasion, such as for bonuses, you will also need that information included in your payroll system.

Expense Reports

If your employees have expense accounts, you will also need to track those in your payroll system. South Jersey accounting services say that in order for an expense reimbursement not to be taxable, it must be for a documented expense that is business related. For example, if you have employees who travel, their meals and lodging are a business expense, so they are not subject to payroll withholding. However, you must have documentation to confirm that these were valid expenses and not actual salary. If employees take home company cars, that may be a taxable benefit as well.

Delayed W-2 Forms

The law requires that every employee receive a W-2 form unless they are an independent contractor, in which case they would receive a 1099 form. Those forms must be mailed to your employees no later than January 31 each year. Filing deadlines may vary depending on your state and local government, a small business accountant in NJ says.

Payment of Unemployment Tax

The federal government requires all states to offer unemployment compensation programs. Failure to pay state employment could result in the loss of federal unemployment credits at the end of the year. You may also pay an incorrect rate which is why using small business accounting services is recommended. In addition, some states. Have both employee-paid and employer-paid unemployment taxes.

Payroll Outsourcing

There are several benefits to outsourcing your payroll. South Jersey accounting services are able to provide you with expert tax advice while also making sure your taxes are paid in a timely fashion. Outsourcing payroll can also save you time. Research shows that the average business owner spends almost five hours calculating, filing and paying payroll taxes every quarter. Working with a small business accountant in NJ frees up that time so you can spend it building your business.

Outsourcing also provides better security as your employee information is protected. Employees are also more satisfied as they are paid on time and their paychecks are calculated correctly. There is evidence that just two payroll errors will lead over half of your workforce looking for another job.

If you would like some help with managing your payroll, contact TMD Accounting to see how our experienced team can help. We offer South Jersey accounting services that are flexible, reliable, and affordable. With over 40 years’ experience, our family-owned and operated accounting agency continues to live up to our motto: “Where numbers matter and people count.” Contact TMD Accounting today by calling 1-856-228-2205.

Can I File Multiple Years of Back Taxes At Once?

Tax Planning

Falling behind on taxes can be a frustrating experience, but you want to take steps to rectify the situation as soon as possible. You might be wondering whether you can file multiple years of returns at one time. There are options available to taxpayers who need to file several years of back taxes. Whether you are an individual taxpayer or a small business owner, understanding your options when filing back taxes can help make the process less stressful and more manageable.

What Are Back Taxes?

You may owe back taxes if you have not filed or underpaid them in the past year. These taxes can be a significant problem for individuals and small business owners. Over time, it can lead to a buildup of interest and penalties, making it more difficult and expensive to fix the issue with the Internal Revenue Service.

The process of resolving these back taxes can be complicated. You will need to review and correct past tax returns and financial records in many situations. Consider working with a company specializing in small business accounting services for this task, especially if you have multiple years of back tax returns.

An experienced accountant can ensure that your tax information is accurate and up to date, helping minimize potential tax liabilities. They can also help you understand the tax laws and regulations that apply to your situation. Plus, these financial professionals will guide you through resolving any outstanding tax debts.

Unfortunately, many small business owners can fall behind on their tax obligations for many reasons, such as having fears of receiving a large tax bill, requiring clarification about the tax process, or needing to prioritize tax planning. No matter the reason, you will want to address back taxes as soon as possible. If you neglect your taxes, it can lead to significant financial consequences and legal penalties. By working with a knowledgeable South Jersey accountant, you can take a proactive approach to resolving your back taxes, putting you in a better position to succeed and grow your business in the long term.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Back Taxes?

The consequences of falling behind on taxes can be severe. If you don’t file tax returns or pay taxes owed, it can result in a range of problems, including IRS notices and letters, wage garnishments and bank account levies, and the accrual of tax penalties and interest.

The IRS will first send notices and letters to collect taxes. In many cases, these notices contain language stating you are at risk of further enforcement action if you do not settle your tax debts. If you ignore these letters, the IRS may take additional measures to collect the taxes owed to the government.

In addition to these enforcement actions, failing to file tax returns or pay taxes owed can also result in the accrual of tax penalties and interest. The longer you wait to address your tax debts, the more penalties and interest you will incur. As a result, those financial penalties make it even more difficult and expensive to fix the issue. Remember that interest and penalties can add up quickly. They can make a significant dent in your finances, especially if you do not take action to resolve your tax obligations in a timely manner.

Can You File Two Tax Years Together?

Yes, you can file multiple back taxes at once. In fact, it is often recommended to file multiple returns at once to catch up on all of your taxes from the previous years. You can file back taxes by obtaining copies of your old returns or estimating your income and expenses for the missing years. Once you have that, you can submit the returns to the IRS.

Filing multiple tax returns for several years can be time-consuming. If you need to file multiple years of back taxes, the process can take longer, especially if your tax situation is more complex or you have many deductions and credits to claim. Filing several years of returns can take several days, even a week or more, depending on the circumstances.

If you owe taxes for multiple years and cannot pay the full amount all at once, you can work out a payment plan with the IRS. These plans can help you avoid penalties and interest. Additionally, they can give you more time to pay off your tax debt. However, setting up a payment plan does not relieve you of your obligation to file all of your missing tax returns.

Once again, it is always a good idea to seek the advice of a tax professional if you need to learn how to file back taxes or have concerns about your ability to pay your tax debt. They can help you navigate the process and ensure that your returns are filed correctly and promptly.

Get Help With Your Taxes

When you need assistance filing one or multiple years of taxes, TMD Accounting is here to help. With a track record of serving small and large companies for over four decades in Gloucester County, we have the experience to handle your payroll, tax, and bookkeeping needs. We want to help you rectify any issues you may have with past back taxes. As a family-owned and -operated business, we take pride in providing personalized and professional services to our clients in South Jersey. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call us at 1-856-228-2205.

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