Showing posts with label Tx. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tx. Show all posts

Friday, October 11, 2013

October 15 Tax Extension Deadline Stands

This is a friendly reminder from the professionals at BW James reminding you that the despite the government shutdown, the Internal Revenue Service still expects tax payments to come in on October 15, 2013, the agency recently announced.
Over 12 million individuals took advantage of an automatic six month extension earlier this year to file their Form 1040 for 2012.  The IRS offered several reminders for taxpayers during the current appropriations lapse:

Taxpayers are encouraged to file their returns electronically using IRS e-file or the Free File system to reduce the chance of errors. A CPA or Enrolled Agent (EA) can also assist any individual with filing tax returns.

Before filing, the IRS encourages taxpayers to see if they qualify for often-overlooked credits and deductions.  So if you’re one of the many Americans who have yet to file their Form 1040 for 2012, BW James can help you ensure you don’t miss any of these credits and deductions.

October 15, 2013 is the final day to submit your tax return.

For more information about the professionals at BW James visit http://www.bwjames.com

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

The 27th Annual Harvest Moon Regatta

BW James LLP is thrilled to turn your attention to the 27th Annual Harvest Moon Regatta hosted by the Lakewood Yacht Club.  Staged between Galveston and Port Aransas, the Harvest Moon Regatta is one of the largest port-to-port sailboat races in North America.

Each year the even attracts over 200 yachts, who in order to participate, must be at least 27 feet in length.  The race begins in front of the Pleasure Pier in Galveston and ends in Port Aransas.  The course is roughly 150 miles and generally takes 20 to 25 hours to compete.
In 2012, a new trophy was awarded to the boat that raised the most funds during the Sail-a-thon benefitting cancer awareness.  The Judy’s Mission Trophy honors Judy Robinson and proceeds benefit the Judith Liebenthal Robinson Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
One of the professionals at BW James, Bob Martin, has been participating in the Regatta for 25 years and we look forward to cheering him on!  He will set sail on Thursday, October 17, 2013.  The first start is at 2:00 PM and the Race Finish is at 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 19th.  The weekend will be full of fun events for onlookers and participants so be sure to mark your calendars and come enjoy the sights and entertainment, all supporting a great cause, and be sure to cheer extra loud for Mr. Martin!

For more information about The 27th Annual Harvest Moon Regatta visit http://www.harvestmoonregatta.com

And for more information about the professionals at BW James, proud CPA firm of Sailor Bob Martin, visit http://www.bwjames.com 

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Top 5 Ways to Maximize Your Tax Benefits

Paying tax is an inevitable part of your adult life. Barry W James of BW James CPA’s shares some tips on how you can maximize your benefits and at the same time, minimize your taxes due. Here are some useful suggestions you can use for the tax season.
Make necessary adjustments for your withholding.

There are plenty of Americans with withheld taxes higher than what is required of them. If you are receiving a large refund, it is due time to review your withholding so you get of that money in your own paycheck.

Keep your records organized.

Make sure you have all the tax related documents prepared and organized. This simple tip can save you a lot of time and possibly help you further with minimizing your taxes.

Make contributions to your retirement accounts.

Your additional deductions can be increased by funding your retirement plan. One way to do this is to use a Traditional IRA. Your contribution becomes a deductible if you are an active participant or if your spouse is.

Sign up for a Flexible Spending Account.

According to BW James accountants, a Flexible Spending Account may be beneficial to your case, which is why it is worth considering. With this program, funds are deducted from your salary on a pretax basis. That automatically reduces your taxable income. The funds taken from your paycheck will then be refunded as soon as you present claim forms to your company's benefits department. The two kinds of FSAs worth considering include healthcare and dependent care.

Support a charity.

Making a charitable donation can also help minimize your taxes. And when you do, make sure you itemize these deductions properly so you can receive tax related benefits that is due you. Keep in mind however, that only the actual contributions are considered deductible. Check the guidelines regarding this matter for more information.

For more information about the professionals at BW James call 281-420-1040 or visit http://www.bwjames.com 

Friday, October 4, 2013

Year End Money Saving Tips

It is now October and 2013 is almost completely over, and now it is time to start doing some year-end planning to save money during the rapidly approaching tax season.  Courtesy of the professionals at BW James, here are a few tips to be better prepared.

Get Organized

Gathering your tax data as soon as possible can save you a lot of trouble and put you in a better position to save money during tax time.  Round up all receipts and canceled checks, check brokerage statements for year-to-date gains or losses and make a checklist of accounts to keep track of the 1099s.  Organizing your files now will avoid some of the stress that would be there later.

Fund Your Retirement

There’s a bounty of ways to benefit on your taxes when funding an IRA.  The professionals at BW James can advise you on which way is best for you.  Perhaps it’s time convert that traditional IRA to a Roth IRA.  Be sure to talk to us about your retirement options.

Pay Off Deductible Expenses

Paying your state income tax estimate before December 31 can accelerate your federal deduction.  You can also pay property taxes early, make an extra mortgage payment, or opt to have dental work or deductible elective surgery you planned on having before the year-end.

Give to Charity

Do you donate to charities each year?  Doing so before December 31st will allow you to deduct the amount from your taxes sooner.  Be sure to work with BW James to coordinate the best time possible for charitable gifts to ensure you’re benefitted on your taxes.

Properly preparing for tax season at the end of the year can put yourself in great position for the April deadline.  These are just a few ways you can explore to get ready.

For more information about Barry W James and the professionals at BW James visit http://www.bwjames.com 

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Get a Head Start on Tax Season in Four Simple Steps

While the end of the year may seem like it’s a long time from now, it’s only three short months away. When you factor in the hectic weeks of the coming holiday season, that really only leaves a few weeks to pull your tax information together to avoid the stress that being unprepared for tax season can bring.

Now is the time to think about what information you will need for the 2013 tax filing season and the steps you can take in the next few months to minimize your tax burden. To help you get a jumpstart on your end-of-year planning and organization, here are a few tips courtesy of BW James Certified Public Accountants.
1) Take a look at last year’s income tax return and determine what documentation you will need to complete this year’s return.

2) Review the expenses, retirement contributions, and charitable giving that you have planned before year-end to determine if there are any additional deductions that you may still be able to capture for this tax year.

3) Organize your receipts and invoices by category and start scanning them so you are prepared for a paperless tax preparation process.

4) If you’re not already comfortable using your portal on our website, make sure to check how the process of uploading your tax documents works and how to review your return online so these tasks are quick and easy for you during tax season.
Getting a head start on your taxes now will benefit you come tax time. Providing us with your documentation as early as possible will allow us to process your return sooner so you can receive any tax refund you may be eligible for more quickly. In addition, preparing now will also help you avoid the stress of scrambling for information with a looming tax deadline before you. And remember, we are always here to help. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 281-420-1040 or visit www.bwjames.com 

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Medicare Part D Notice

Courtesy of the professionals at BW James, we would like to remind all of our clients about the Medicare Part D Notice.

Medicare prescription drug coverage became available in 2006 to everyone with Medicare and you can receive this coverage if you join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan, such as an HMO or PPO, which offers prescription drug coverage.

You can join a Medicare drug plan when you first become eligible for Medicare and each year from October 15th through December 7th.  All business owners who offer health insurance to their employees must give the Medicare Part D Notice to employees by October 15.

For more information about Medicare prescription drug coverage you can visit www.medicare.gov
BW James Certified Public Accountants regards you and your business with the highest value and is available to help all clients with direct one-on-one service in areas such as tax advisory service and managing healthcare coverage.  For more information about the professionals at BW James visit www.bwjames.com

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Does Your Small Business Need a CPA?

Every year, entrepreneurs launch roughly 600,000 new small businesses in the United States, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Starting a business is a risky venture, and when you’re getting started you may feel like the weight of the whole world is on your shoulders.

All small businesses have the option to take a great deal of that weight off of their shoulders and enlist professional tax and accounting help.  Making even a small error in your books can make a very large mess of your business finances.  Not to mention the fact that you just started a small business, you’re very busy.  Bringing in an expert to help with your financial services can free up a lot of time and help you focus on growing your business.  Undoubtedly professional help with financial planning and tax services are a great idea for your small business, but should you go with an accountant or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?

No matter the size of your business, even a single-person business probably needs the services of a CPA for several reasons:

A CPA is licensed by a state, and must keep current with tax laws in order to maintain that license, unlike Accountants.  The CPA exam is a rigorous process that includes many facets of financial and tax expertise.  After they are licensed, CPA’s also must comply with continuing education requirements, where regular accountants do not.

Almost all CPA’s are more familiar with tax laws than accountants are.  Knowledge of the tax code is a big part of a CPA’s licensing exam and CPA’s take tax courses each year to keep up to date on the Tax Code.  An accountant is classified by the IRS as an “unenrolled preparer” and an unenrolled preparer’s ability to represent a client in a tax matter before the IRS is very limited.  Alternatively, a CPA is eligible to represent you before the IRS and has full authority to represent you in an audit and execute claims on your behalf.  CPA’s can help you make more high-level business and tax decisions.

Bottom line, no matter the size of your business the professionals at BW James can help you be more successful and are available to become your partners and help take your business to the next level.  

For more information about BW James visit https://www.bwjames.com/

Monday, August 12, 2013

Houston Restaurant Weeks

BW James is proud to help support and promote “Houston Restaurant Weeks” benefiting the Houston Food Bank.  This is a great opportunity to give back to our community and surrounding areas and dine at many of Houston’s exceptional restaurants.

“Houston Restaurant Weeks” was established in 2003 and is the city’s largest “for-charity” dining event held simultaneously in restaurants in the greater Houston area each year. The dates of this year’s event run from August 1 through September 2, 2013.
“Houston Restaurant Weeks” is planned by volunteers so that 100% of funds raised can be donated to the Houston Food Bank.  The event includes Harris, Galveston, and Montgomery County restaurants.  

Restaurants will be offering “Houston Restaurant Weeks” meals every day they are open from August 1st through September 2nd.  You can view the” Houston Restaurant Weeks” menus here and make reservations by calling or emailing them, just remember to tell them you would like the “Houston Restaurant Weeks” special menu to let the restaurant know to make a donation to the Food Bank from the proceeds of your meal.

The professionals at BW James will certainly be taking advantage of these great deals that go to a good cause.  Now is the perfect time to try out some new restaurants in the Houston area and we encourage all to join us!

If you would like more information on BW James visit https://bwjames.com 

Thursday, August 8, 2013

The American Institute of CPAs

When you are searching for an accountant it is in your best interest to ensure that you are receiving the highest level of quality possible.  You can put your mind at ease knowing you’re in the best of hands if your CPA is a member of The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).

The AICPA is the world’s largest member association representing the accounting profession, with nearly 386,000 members in 128 countries.  The AICPA has been serving the public interest for 125 years and their members are comprised of many different areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, and education and consulting.  The Institute sets ethical standards for the profession and U.S. auditing standards for audits of private companies, nonprofit organizations, federal, state and local governments.  It also develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination and offers specialty credentials for CPAs who concentrate on personal financial planning; fraud and forensics; business valuation; and information technology.  Through a joint venture with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, it has established the Chartered Global Management Accountant designation.
Barry W James of BW James Certified Public Accountants is a proud member of the AICPA and takes full advantage of the education and assessment tools provided in order to better serve the public.  When you become a client of BW James you are setting yourself up for success.  

BW James LLP regards you and your business with the highest value and you receive direct one-on-one service giving your company the attention that it deserves.  

For more information about the professionals at BW James visit https://bwjames.com 


Tuesday, July 9, 2013

BW James Seeking Qualified Professional to fill Open Position

Full Charge Bookkeeper/Accounting Clerk   (Full Time)

Apply Here: Current Open Positions

One of Houston areas most progressive Next Generation Certified Public Accounting Firms that specializes in outsourced CFO, financial accounting, back office support system, advisory, and tax services is expanding and looking to add a Full Charge Bookkeeper to its exemplary team. 


Job Information:  Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks


Job Location:  Baytown, TX 77520


Hours/Week:  40

Education and Experience


  • Years of Experience:  5+
  • Education:  High School/G.E.D
Starting Salary:  $ 35000-42000/Year


Tasks:
  • Operate computers programmed with accounting software to record, store, and analyze information.
  • Check figures, postings, and documents for correct entry, mathematical accuracy, and proper codes.
  • Classify, record, and summarize numerical and financial data to compile and keep financial records, using journals and ledgers or computers.
  • Debit, credit, and total accounts on computer spreadsheets and databases, using specialized accounting software.
  • Operate 10-key calculators, typewriters, and copy machines to perform calculations and produce documents.
  • Receive, record, and bank cash, checks, and vouchers.
  • Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations.
  • Compile statistical, financial, accounting or auditing reports and tables pertaining to such matters as cash receipts, expenditures, accounts payable and receivable, and profits and losses.
  • Code documents according to company procedures.
  • Reconcile or note and report discrepancies found in records.
  • Access computerized financial information to answer general questions as well as those related to specific accounts.
  • Match order forms with invoices, and record the necessary information.
  • Perform general office duties such as filing, answering telephones, and handling routine correspondence.
Work Context

Requires sitting, Requires using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls,Requires repetitive movement, Requires contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise), Requires face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams, Requires writing letters and memos, Requires telephone conversations, Requires use of electronic mail,Includes conflict situations, Requires making decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization, Opportunity to make decisions without supervision, Requires making decisions that impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company, Requires repeating the same physical activities or mental activities over and over, Freedom to determine tasks, priorities, and goals, Requires being exact or highly accurate, Requires meeting strict deadlines, Requires work with others in a group or team, Requires work with external customers or the public, Requires working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions

Work Activities:
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  • Documenting/Recording Information
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  • Performing Administrative Activities
  • Processing Information
  • Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Analyzing Data or Information
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  • Getting Information
  • Interacting With Computers
  • use spreadsheet software
  • enter timesheet information
  • maintain inventory of office forms
  • sort books, publications, or other items
  • compute taxes
  • prepare bank deposits
  • prepare financial reports
  • reconcile or balance financial records
  • prepare reports
  • use accounting or bookkeeping software
  • prepare billing statements
  • complete patient bills
  • process invoices
  • compute financial data
  • use computers to enter, access or retrieve data
  • perform clerical duties including typing, accepting orders, or sorting mail
  • detect discrepancies on records or reports
  • examine documents for completeness, accuracy, or conformance to standards
  • maintain balance sheets
  • compile data for financial reports
  • process account invoices
  • maintain records, reports, or files
  • fill out business or government forms
  • use word processing or desktop publishing software
  • take messages
  • fill out purchase requisitions
  • process payroll documents, records, or checks
  • prepare tax reports
Basic Skills:
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Learning Strategies
  • Mathematics
  • Monitoring
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Science
  • Speaking
  • Writing
Social Skills:
  • Coordination
  • Instructing
  • Negotiation
  • Service Orientation
  • Social Perceptiveness
Complex Problem Solving Skills:
  • Complex Problem Solving
Technical Skills:
  • Troubleshooting
Systems Skills:
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Resource Management Skills:
  • Management of Financial Resources
  • Time Management
Desktop Computer Skills:
  • Spreadsheets
  • Internet
  • Navigation
  • Word Processing
  • Databases
KnowledgeRequired:
  • Clerical
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Economics and Accounting
  • English Language
  • Mathematics
Tools:
  • Calculators or accessories
  • 10-key calculator
    financial calculators
    Desktop computers
    Ledger paper
  • Ledger sheets
    Notebook computers
  • Notebook computers
    Receipts or receipt books
  • Receipt books
Technology:
  • Accounting software
  • Accounts payable software
  • accounting software
Specific Tools & Technology:
  • QuickBooks Mandatory
To Apply Online: http://www.alphaomegaws.com/current-job-opening.html

To Apply in Person:
911 S. 8th Street
La Porte, TX 77571
Google Map Directions:
http://goo.gl/maps/0N9Ow

Monday, June 17, 2013

BW James Certified Public Accountants founder chosen to attend RootWorks Academy

The exclusive premier membership-based education organization has chosen the founder of BW James Certified Public Accountants , Barry W. James, to attend the Spring Academy Conference held in Denver, Colorado June 19-20, 2013.  The Academy Level that Mr. James is a member of is limited to 100 firms throughout the United States and subject to territorial limits.

Rootworks Academy will hosts a full slate of exclusive events and forums throughout the year offering highly charged onsite forum for peer-to-peer information exchange and presentations by industry experts.  Attendees will be residing at the Cherry Creek Denver luxury hotel close to downtown Denver, Colorado. Qualifications to attend the conference is highly competitive based on firms ability to deliver new technologies, client accounting online, paperless tax processing, and practice management.  Academy members will participate in round table discussions coming away with best-practices to provide for their clients.

Barry W. James, CPA is a native of Baytown, Texas just outside of Houston.  He has practice financial planning, estate planning, and public accounting for over 30 years.  Beginning in 1982 when he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston at Clear Lake, Barry began his professional journey by joining a local Baytown accounting firm. After a few years and the recognition of attaining his Certified Public Accountant Certificate in 1987,  Barry transitioned to the next level by opening what has become one of the leading locally-owned and operated CPA firms in the Houston, Baytown,  and Clear Lake area; providing exceptional tax and accounting services to a diversified client base.   Today the firm has grown to include 2 other CPA’s and 3 support staff as they continue to offer leading edge accounting and tax service to a diversified client base throughout the United States in a small boutique  practice setting.

BW James Certified Public Accountants is located just outside of Houston at 721 E. Texas Ave. in Baytown, Texas.  Barry W. James and his team of tax and financial professionals can be reached by calling 281.420.1040 or visiting https://www.bwjames.com.