Pathfinding Consultants

Are you leaving $10,000+ on the table every year?  If you're a construction company owner, medical practice physician, or law firm partner earning six figures, the answer is probably yes—and you might not even know it. Here's what most business owners don't realize: the entity structure you choose isn't just about legal protection or paperwork. It's about cold, hard cash . The difference between operating as an LLC versus an S-Corp can mean $8,000 to $25,000+ in annual tax s

Imagine this: you’ve worked tirelessly to build your business, and you’re finally ready to sell. After years of dedication, you expect a healthy return. But then, during due diligence, the buyer’s accountant begins scrutinizing your tax liabilities and suddenly, your business valuation drops. This situation is more common than many business owners realize. Tax liabilities are not just numbers on a ledger; they can significantly impact the perceived value of your company. Und

When a startup approaches a liquidity event or sale, the excitement can quickly turn into confusion once taxes enter the picture. Many founders celebrate the deal size without realizing that poor tax planning can quietly erode 20-40% of their gains. In my 10+ years advising startup founders, I’ve seen how a few early tax moves, like exercising ISOs before valuation spikes or qualifying for the QSBS exclusion, can save millions in taxes. Proper planning doesn’t just protect yo

Restructuring your business entity before a fundraising round or sale can significantly reduce taxes and boost net returns. The right structure, LLC, C-Corporation, or partnership, affects how profits are taxed and how attractive your company is to investors or buyers. Many founders overlook this step and lose value to unnecessary taxes. Planning early with tax advisors helps choose the optimal entity, qualify for QSBS benefits, and time the transition effectively. In short,

When preparing to sell a business, most owners focus on valuation, negotiations, and deal terms . Yet one factor often overlooked, tax planning before an acquisition , can have the greatest impact on the final payout. With the right strategy, sellers can save millions  by structuring the business and transaction to reduce taxes and increase after-tax proceeds. Tax planning isn’t only about minimizing liabilities; it’s about maximizing what owners keep after the sale . This gu

Imagine selling your startup shares after years of hard work and paying little to no capital gains tax. This isn’t just a dream; it’s possible through the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) tax provision. Under Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code , QSBS allows eligible founders and investors to exclude up to 100% of capital gains from federal taxes when selling qualified stock. This powerful incentive rewards long-term investment in early-stage companies and helps

Picture this: you just received your first batch of startup shares as a founder. It’s exciting but also nerve-wracking. How do you handle the tax implications? Enter the 83(b) election : a simple but powerful IRS filing that can save founders thousands in future taxes if used correctly. Startups often grant equity that vests over time, which can create massive tax bills on shares you don’t even fully own yet. For founders in California and Nevada , understanding how the 83(b)

Business acquisitions can be lucrative, but beneath the surface of every deal lies a complex web of potential tax pitfalls. These hidden tax liabilities often catch buyers off guard, turning what seemed like a promising investment into a costly headache. Understanding these risks and knowing how to navigate them is crucial for anyone involved in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) . Tax liabilities don’t always appear in the obvious places. They can be buried in past financial s

In the fast-evolving world of technology, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become a strategic tool for growth, innovation, and market expansion. For SaaS founders and investors, understanding the intricacies of tax due diligence is critical to ensuring that deals are structured optimally and risks are minimized. Tax issues can significantly impact the valuation, timing, and ultimate success of tech acquisitions. This guide explores the essentials of tax due diligence in t

Tax season may be over, but your financial planning shouldn’t stop there. The period after filing is the perfect time to review your return, organize records, and plan smarter for next year. Post-tax season planning helps you reduce stress, improve cash flow, and strengthen your financial health. Whether you’re an individual or a business owner, taking a few key steps now, like analyzing your tax results, adjusting budgets, and preparing for future payments, can make next ye

Missing a tax deadline can feel overwhelming and stressful, but it’s a situation many taxpayers face at some point. Whether it’s due to unexpected life events, confusion about filing requirements, or simple oversight, the important thing is how you respond once you realize the deadline has passed. Acting quickly and strategically can help minimize penalties, reduce stress, and set you on a path to financial recovery. This guide will walk you through what happens when you mis

Running a small business isn’t just about generating revenue, it’s about building a resilient and reputable enterprise  that can adapt to economic and regulatory changes. Financial stability safeguards both your operations and your credibility with clients, suppliers, and partners. Poor tax planning can strain cash flow, slow growth, or invite IRS scrutiny. By proactively managing taxable income through strategies like tax-loss harvesting , business owners demonstrate transpa

Income splitting has long been touted as a strategic approach to reduce overall tax burdens within families or business entities. But with evolving tax laws and increasing scrutiny by tax authorities, the question remains: does income splitting really save you money? This article delves into the mechanics , benefits , risks , and alternatives of income splitting to help you make informed decisions about your tax planning strategies. The Search for Legal Tax Savings Taxpaye

Consulting is a rewarding profession that offers flexibility, autonomy, and the opportunity to leverage specialized expertise. However, many consultants find themselves facing unexpectedly high tax bills, which can significantly reduce their take-home income. Understanding how to manage and minimize tax liability is crucial for consultants who want to keep more of their earnings and reinvest in their business growth. This article explores why consultants often pay more taxe

Tax deferrals let small businesses delay paying taxes, freeing up cash for growth. Common methods include adjusting accounting methods,...

The construction industry runs on tight budgets and complex projects, making smart bookkeeping and tax planning essential for success....

For business owners, understanding the nuances of capital gains tax (CGT) is essential to making informed decisions about selling assets,...

For entrepreneurs who have reached high-income levels, tax planning is not just a yearly chore it’s a critical component of financial...

Businesses can use retirement plans such as 401(k), SEP IRA, or Defined Benefit Plans to reduce taxable income and save thousands in...

Starting a new business comes with both opportunities and financial responsibilities — and one of the most important is managing taxes...