October 2, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
This month, BMC is focusing on the importance of embracing change. Change is inevitable. The world around us is constantly evolving through new technology, shifting expectations, and new opportunities for growth. What matters most is how we respond. While the tools we use may change, the values that guide us remain the same. Integrity, trust, […]
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The Benefits of Increasing Your 401(k) Contributions Before the Year Runs Out
October 21, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
As 2026 draws to a close, your employer’s 401(k) plan may offer an opportunity to reduce your current income taxes while building your retirement savings — or to boost your future tax-free retirement income. If you haven’t been contributing, it may not be too late to start. And if you’re already contributing, increasing the amount […]
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How Your Business Can Use AI to Strengthen Customer Service
October 6, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
These days, customers expect fast and personalized service and support from the businesses they patronize. AI can help you meet their high expectations without overburdening your employees. But as in other contexts, AI in customer service is usually only as effective as how it’s trained and used. To improve responsiveness and give employees more time […]
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Embracing Change this October
October 2, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
This month, BMC is focusing on the importance of embracing change. Change is inevitable. The world around us is constantly evolving through new technology, shifting expectations, and new opportunities for growth. What matters most is how we respond. While the tools we use may change, the values that guide us remain the same. Integrity, trust, […]
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Maintaining Customer Relationships After an Acquisition
September 14, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
When a business is acquired, its customers don’t necessarily transfer their loyalty to the buyer. Customers may worry about future pricing, service, product quality and whether the business’s new owner understands what they value. If their concerns go unanswered, competitors may see and exploit an opening. If you’re anticipating making an acquisition, plan how you’ll […]
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Before You Spend Lottery, Gambling or Other Winnings, Understand the Tax Rules
August 27, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
It’s easy to focus on the excitement of a big win. But federal tax law generally treats lottery prizes, gambling winnings and other awards as taxable income. Knowing the basic rules can help you avoid surprises when you file your 2026 return next year. Lottery prizes Of course, the chances of winning big in the […]
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The Right Financial Guidance Can Help Maximize Your Business’s Potential
July 23, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
Financial information is the foundation for every important business decision. Whether your goal is to improve cash flow, launch a new offering, hire additional workers or expand into a new market, accurate data enables you to make decisions confidently. An experienced advisor can help prepare this data and ensure your business is poised to capitalize […]
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Demystifying Like-Kind Exchanges
June 17, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
If you’re a real estate developer or a small business owner who owns commercial real estate, you might be thinking about selling a property. If it has appreciated significantly, a Section 1031 like-kind exchange may allow you to defer tax on some or all of the gain. With this transaction, you exchange one property for […]
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Protect Yourself from Fraudsters Impersonating the IRS and Other Tax Scams
May 27, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
Tax scammers continue to target taxpayers through email, text messages, phone calls and regular mail. They often try to create urgency or fear to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or sending money. The IRS warns taxpayers to remain cautious because scammers continually change tactics to steal personal and financial information. IRS impersonation scams First […]
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Why You Might Want to Build a Wall Between Your Business and its Real Estate
March 19, 2026 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
Does your business own its real estate in a separate holding company, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or limited partnership? This practice can provide several advantages, including shielding property from your company’s creditors. It can also ease estate planning if, for example, you want to transfer business interests to your children while retaining […]
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Changes to charitable donation deductions are on the horizon
December 30, 2025 / by Brett Hess / Uncategorized
Beginning in 2026, individuals who itemize deductions and donate to charity will face a new limit on their charitable deductions. And in some cases, they’ll face two new limits. But there’s some good news for nonitemizing individuals who make charitable donations. New charitable deduction floor Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), starting in 2026, if […]
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