September 2026
Harvesting Opportunities
September is a season of transition. It’s a time to take stock of what’s working, make thoughtful adjustments, and prepare for what lies ahead. Whether you’re managing a business, planning your finances, or looking for new opportunities, the decisions you make today can have a lasting impact. This month’s insights offer practical guidance to help you build on your progress, navigate change, and make the most of the opportunities ahead.
In This Issue:
- Cash flow forecasting as a leadership tool
- IRS provides gift tax safe harbor for Trump account contributions
- Why homeowners need to track improvements before a sale or inheritance
- Tax mistakes new business owners make in their first profitable year
Cash flow forecasting as a leadership tool
Most business owners rely on backward-looking financials that tell them where they have been, not where they are going. A cash flow forecast fills that gap by projecting future inflows and outflows, helping leaders spot problems early and make smarter decisions about hiring, investing, and financing. Updated consistently and tied to real business decisions, it shifts leadership from reactive to proactive.
IRS provides gift tax safe harbor for Trump account contributions
The IRS just made it easier for families to fund Trump accounts without triggering an unexpected gift tax filing requirement. In Revenue Procedure 2026-25, the IRS established a safe harbor that allows qualifying donors to contribute cash to a child’s Trump account and skip Form 709 entirely, as long as key conditions are met. Here’s what you need to know before making contributions.
Why homeowners need to track improvements before a sale or inheritance
As home values rise, the federal home sale exclusion may no longer be enough to eliminate capital gains tax when a property is sold or inherited. The difference between a large tax bill and a smaller one can come down to how well a homeowner documented capital improvements over the years. Keeping a permanent record of qualifying expenses is one of the simplest steps homeowners can take to protect themselves.
Tax mistakes new business owners make in their first profitable year
Your first profitable year in business is worth celebrating. But it can also bring expensive tax surprises, especially if you’re still managing the business like you did when revenue was lower. Here are the most common mistakes new business owners make and what to do instead.
