Episode description

In this episode of "Right About Now," host Ryan Alford sits down with Ryan Moriarty, president of Done For You Tax, to explore essential tax strategies for small businesses. Moriarty reflects on his journey from computer science to accounting, sharing how his technical background shapes his approach to tax management. He dives into the importance of accurate bookkeeping and addresses common fears surrounding taxes. Throughout the conversation, Moriarty highlights how advancements in technology and AI have revolutionized accounting, making it more accessible and cost-effective for small business owners. He also offers practical tax advice, including tips on home office deductions, vehicle expenses, and the importance of meticulous documentation to prevent audit risks. This episode is packed with valuable insights aimed at empowering small business owners with the tools and knowledge they need for smarter financial management.

• Importance of tax management for small businesses
• Role of bookkeeping in successful tax filing
• Common fears and misconceptions about taxes
• Target audience for affordable accounting services
• Impact of technology on accounting efficiency
• Integration of artificial intelligence in bookkeeping
• Client involvement in the accounting process
• Understanding tax audits and preparation
• Practical tax tips for small business owners
• Overlooked deductions and common pitfalls in tax filing

Introduction to Taxes (00:00:00)
Discussion on the importance of understanding taxes and maximizing savings within legal boundaries.

Podcast Introduction (00:00:09)
Ryan Alford introduces the podcast, highlighting its popularity and engaging tone.

Welcome to the Episode (00:00:32)
Ryan Alford sets the stage for the episode's focus on taxes, emphasizing its relevance.

Guest Introduction (00:00:56)
Ryan Alford introduces Ryan Moriarty, president of Done For You Taxcom.

Personal Life Update (00:01:54)
Ryan Moriarty shares his personal happiness living in Puerto Rico with family.

Moriarty's Background (00:02:25)
Ryan Moriarty discusses his journey from computer science to founding an accounting firm.

The Nature of Taxes (00:03:27)
Ryan Alford and Moriarty explore the complexities and societal implications of taxes.

Maximizing Tax Savings (00:04:13)
Moriarty emphasizes the importance of following tax laws to maximize savings.

Fear and Trepidation Around Taxes (00:04:42)
Discussion on the common fears and lack of knowledge people have regarding taxes.

Target Audience for Services (00:05:20)
Moriarty identifies small business owners as the primary audience for his services.

Bookkeeping Advice (00:06:53)
Moriarty advises new business owners to prioritize bookkeeping to simplify tax filing.

Challenges of Bookkeeping (00:07:58)
Ryan Alford shares insights on the difficulties of maintaining proper bookkeeping.

Importance of Bookkeeping (00:08:35)
Moriarty stresses that proper bookkeeping is essential for tax compliance.

Technological Advancements in Accounting (00:09:13)
Moriarty discusses how technology has improved efficiency in accounting practices.

Role of AI in Bookkeeping (00:10:57)
Moriarty explains how AI assists in bookkeeping, reducing manual labor.

Business Owner Involvement (00:12:17)
Moriarty clarifies the level of involvement required from business owners in bookkeeping.

Tax Preparation Process (00:13:15)
Moriarty outlines the steps involved in preparing taxes for clients.

Client Expectations from Tax Services (00:14:13)
Discussion on what small business owners seek in tax services: speed and accuracy.

Audit Concerns (00:15:00)
Moriarty addresses client fears regarding audits and how his service can help.

Audit Likelihood (00:16:06)
Moriarty shares statistics on audit chances for small businesses.

Importance of Accurate Record-Keeping (00:16:58)
Moriarty emphasizes the need for accurate bookkeeping to support tax filings during audits.

Ongoing Client Guidance (00:18:00)
Moriarty explains the continuous support provided to clients to avoid audits.

Understanding Audits (00:18:09)
Discussion on desk audits, specific categories audited, and the importance of being prepared.

Audit Support Services (00:19:06)
Explanation of how Done For You Taxcom assists clients during audits and inquiries.

Avoiding Full Audits (00:19:44)
Insight on how to prevent full audits by maintaining organized records and avoiding red flags.

Tax Tips for Small Businesses (00:20:04)
Advice on practical tax management strategies for small business owners to stay organized.

Home Office Deductions (00:20:36)
Importance of having a home office and how to calculate deductions based on square footage.

Vehicle Expense Deductions (00:21:22)
Explanation of vehicle expense deductions, including mileage tracking versus actual expenses.

Real Estate Investment Strategies (00:22:11)
Tax strategies for high-income clients involving real estate and the benefits of accelerated depreciation.

Misconceptions About Vehicle Deductions (00:25:22)
Discussion on the pitfalls of writing off luxury vehicles and their depreciation.

Debunking Tax Myths (00:26:39)
Clarification on common tax myths surrounding vehicle deductions and financial planning.

Maximizing Home Office Deductions (00:28:12)
Encouragement to accurately calculate home office expenses and potential deductions for small businesses.

Writing Off Business Meals (00:29:11)
Guidance on writing off meals when there is a business purpose, even during personal dinners.

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