This episode of The Money Shift Podcast breaks down a trending tax tactic that’s catching attention in the auto repair world: registering vehicles in Montana to skip sales tax. Hosts Eric Joern and Jack Paeglow explain why this strategy can lead to serious problems for shop owners, including legal exposure, insurance issues, and penalties.

You’ll learn:
- Why a Montana LLC without a legitimate business purpose can trigger audits and legal trouble
- How insurance companies are responding to vehicles registered under this setup
- What questions states are starting to ask and how enforcement is increasing
- Safer, legitimate strategies to reduce taxes on vehicle purchases

If you’ve heard about this “Montana scheme” or are considering it for your shop, this episode will help you understand the risks, stay compliant, and choose smarter ways to save on taxes.

Explore the Kaizen Resource Center for practical guides, videos, and articles to help you run a more profitable, predictable shop: https://www.kaizencpas.com/resource-center

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This episode of The Money Shift Podcast provides key financial advice for every auto repair shop owner by introducing the concept of clearing accounts. The discussion explains how these temporary holding accounts can solve common accounting problems like timing errors and mismatched data, giving a small business owner a clearer picture of their finances. The episode details various types of clearing accounts, from those for cash and credit card deposits to inventory and payroll, and highlights how their proper use can simplify bookkeeping and provide the reliable data needed to make informed business decisions.

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💼💰 Kaizen CPAs + Advisors: https://www.kaizencpas.com

This episode of The Money Shift Podcast provides crucial financial advice for every auto repair shop owner by demystifying "basis," a fundamental accounting concept that many find confusing. The discussion clarifies how this scorecard of your business's financial health determines what you can deduct, how much money you can take out of the business, and the potential tax implications of selling assets. It also highlights common "basis traps" that can surprise a repair shop owner and emphasizes the importance of understanding this concept for long-term financial strategy, particularly when acquiring new locations or selling a business.

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💼💰 Kaizen CPAs + Advisors: https://www.kaizencpas.com

On the first episode of The Money Shift Podcast, we provide valuable financial advice for every auto repair shop owner, exploring the critical factors that determine a business's value beyond its physical assets. The discussion highlights the difference between traditional financial statements and tax returns, and how a clean balance sheet is crucial for a smooth sale. Learn what a potential buyer looks for in a business, from operating cash flow (EBITDA) to intangible assets like brand reputation and documented processes. This episode is a must-listen for any repair shop owner considering an exit strategy or simply looking to build a more valuable and resilient business.
 
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💼💰 Kaizen CPAs + Advisors: https://www.kaizencpas.com