by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | May 19, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysAs of April 20, 2026, the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) tool is the exclusive electronic system for reclaiming IEEPA tariff duty payments. Importers must have an active ACE Secure Data Portal account and an... by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | May 12, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysOnly the Importer of Record (IOR) or an authorized customs broker can claim a refund. If a carrier like UPS or FedEx is the IOR, you must coordinate with them rather than filing directly with the CBP. Refunds are exclusively for IEEPA-related... 
by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | May 5, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysThe IRS business rate for 2026 is 72.5 cents per mile, a 2.5-cent increase from the previous year. To keep your options open, you must choose the standard mileage method in the first year your vehicle is used for business. If you start with... 
by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | Apr 24, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysMissing documentation shifts the burden of proof to you. Without a receipt or digital log, it is difficult to defend your records during a year-end review, often resulting in disallowed deductions and higher taxable income.Commingling personal and... by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | Apr 21, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysRemote work can lower overhead, expand your hiring pool, and improve flexibility. But it can also create multi-state tax and payroll compliance issues. In-person work can improve training, supervision, and team cohesion, but it often comes with... by 5 Star Accounting & Business Solutions LLC | Apr 16, 2026 | Uncategorized
Key TakeawaysHow long you keep a document depends on what it is, which law applies, and sometimes your state’s rules as well. A practical baseline is to keep general personnel records for at least two years, payroll tax records at least four years, benefits... 