The Importance of Small Businesses Keeping Good Records for the IRS on Mileage, Meals, and Travel

When running a small business, maintaining meticulous records isn’t just advisable; it’s essential, especially when it comes to dealings with the IRS. Specifically, keeping detailed records of mileage, meals, and travel can… Continue On +

Downtown Business Incentive Credit **update**

As you’ll recall from the Fluence blog sent in late 2023, the City of Portland released its “Downtown Business Incentive” (DBI) credit program, which is a temporary non-refundable credit program to incentivize… Continue On +

Update On Corporate Transparency Act and FinCEN’s BOI Reporting- Feeling Confused on What You Are Required to Do? So Are We!

There have been several developments since our last blog on December 13th, 2024, https://www.fluenceportland.com/consulting/corporate-transparency-act-cta-and-fincens-boi-reporting. On December 23rd, 2024, the Fifth Circuit Court of appeals ruled in favor of the Justice Department lifting… Continue On +

S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting

Setting and achieving goals can be challenging, with many obstacles standing in the way of success. However, starting with a clear strategy significantly increases the chances of reaching your goals. Since 1981,… Continue On +

How to Minimize Oregon Estate Taxes

Currently the federal estate tax exemption is nearly $13.6 Million dollars, or $27.2 Million for a married couple.  So, unless you have assets exceeding these amounts, your estate won’t pay any federal… Continue On +

Salary Increase for Exempt Employees – Effective May 22, 2024

The US Department of Labor (DOL) has amended the Restoring and Extending Overtime Protections rule. The final amendment increases the salary threshold required under the Fair Labor Standards Act. This is for… Continue On +

Read this if you accept cash payments and present large cases in your dental practice

Very few doctors are aware of one of the more drastic federal laws connected to receiving cash payments.  If your practice receives a cash payment of $10,000 or more from a patient,… Continue On +

Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon benefits started September 3, 2023. Paid Leave Oregon is administered by the Oregon Employment Department. Employees apply online at Frances Online Landing Page (oregon.gov). The Oregon Employment Department will… Continue On +

Two Simple Ways To Deter Fraud And Embezzlement That Take Three Minutes To Check

Here are 2 simple ways to reduce the likelihood of fraud and embezzlement in your practice.  In total, these should take 3 minutes out of your day, but can help catch deceitful… Continue On +

Downtown Business Incentive Credit Program

In response to the increase in commercial real estate leasing vacancy in downtown Portland, the city has adopted the “Downtown Business Incentive (DBI)” temporary non-refundable credit program to incentivize new commercial lease… Continue On +

Firm Events and Write-Offs

One of the questions we hear a lot is along the lines of, “Can I write-off (insert team building event or social activity here) for my staff?”  For example, “I’d like to… Continue On +

Non-Deductible Trip vs Deductible Business Trip

Summer is in full swing and with that comes vacation season.  For that reason, I wanted to take a minute to share some requirements on how to turn your next trip from… Continue On +