Savvy or Surrender - Your Guide to Profit, Cash Flow, and Tax Savings

Savvy or Surrender - Your Guide to Profit, Cash Flow, and Tax Savings

By Steven YoungBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Savvy or Surrender - Your Guide to Profit, Cash Flow, and Tax Savings episodes

  • 7 Essential Year-End Tax Moves for Business Owners: Episode 15

    Title: 7 Essential Year-End Tax Moves for Business Owners: Episode 15

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Summary:
    In this episode of the Savvy or Surrender Podcast, host Steven Young breaks down seven actionable, IRS-approved tax strategies every business owner should consider before the year ends. From accelerating legitimate expenses to leveraging retirement contributions and understanding the latest on state and local tax deductions, Steven provides practical advice to help you maximize deductions, minimize tax liability, and set your business up for financial success in the coming year. Bonus tips on charitable giving and avoiding common tax planning mistakes are also included.

    Timestamps:

    • 00:00 – Introduction: Year-end tax scramble & episode overview
    • 00:28 – Host intro & subscribe reminder
    • 00:49 – No-fluff approach & who this episode is for
    • 01:39 – Move #1: Accelerate legitimate expenses
    • 03:19 – Move #2: Equipment and vehicle purchases
    • 04:31 – Section 179 & bonus depreciation explained
    • 04:51 – Move #3: Retirement contributions (Solo 401k, HSA, SEP IRA)
    • 08:09 – HSA changes & maximizing health savings
    • 09:54 – Self-directed plans & tax-free crypto trading
    • 09:49 – Move #4: Pay yourself & timing for S-Corp owners
    • 10:07 – Determining reasonable salary
    • 11:05 – Payroll, bonuses, and year-end deadlines
    • 11:45 – Move #5: Accountable plan setup for reimbursements
    • 13:12 – How to document and implement an accountable plan
    • 15:21 – Real-world example: Contractor savings
    • 16:40 – Importance of formalizing the plan & business documentation
    • 17:52 – Move #6: Harvest losses & clean up your books
    • 18:33 – Writing off bad debt, obsolete inventory, and accurate bookkeeping
    • 19:34 – Move #7: State and local tax (SALT) strategies & pass-through entity tax
    • 22:31 – Example scenario: S-Corp, state tax, and federal savings
    • 25:01 – Bonus moves: Charitable giving & Idaho Youth Ranch credit
    • 26:33 – Biggest year-end mistake: Waiting to plan
    • 27:00 – Call to action: Schedule a discovery call & subscribe

    Keywords:
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    SEO Description:
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    Hashtags:

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    31 min
  • Quarterly Tax Payments for Contractors- Avoid Penalties & Stress: Episode 14

    Title: Quarterly Tax Payments for Contractors- Avoid Penalties & Stress: Episode 14

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    In this episode of The Savvy or Surrender Podcast, host Steven Young demystifies the process of paying estimated taxes for business owners and contractors. He covers who needs to pay quarterly taxes, how to calculate your payments, and the importance of setting aside money regularly—highlighting the Profit First method. Steven also explains the IRS Safe Harbor Rule, common mistakes to avoid, and what to do if you fall behind. The episode wraps up with practical advice for S Corp owners, tips for avoiding penalties, and a call to action for listeners to take control of their tax planning.

    00:00 – Introduction: Why estimated taxes matter for business owners

    00:22 – Host introduction and episode overview

    00:50 – Call to action: Subscribe, like, and review

    01:10 – What are estimated taxes? Who needs to pay them?

    02:09 – Federal and state estimated tax basics

    03:01 – Who is required to pay quarterly taxes?

    04:13 – Common mistakes: Forgetting to set aside money for taxes

    05:01 – The IRS Safe Harbor Rule explained

    06:34 – Calculating your estimated tax payments

    08:21 – Mistake #1: Waiting until tax time

    09:10 – Penalties and how to get them abated

    10:49 – Mistake #2: Not setting money aside weekly (Profit First method)

    11:53 – S Corp owners: Payroll and estimated taxes

    13:33 – How and when to pay estimated taxes (quarterly deadlines)

    15:21 – What to do if you’re behind on payments

    16:09 – Penalties, interest, and the importance of filing early

    17:13 – Why the IRS may not contact you right away

    18:13 – States vs. IRS: Who acts faster?

    18:33 – Final thoughts: Having a plan and using Profit First

    19:13 – Call to action: Schedule a free discovery call and holiday wishes


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    • Tax deadlines for business owners
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    24 min
  • 5 Audit Triggers Contractors MUST Avoid: Episode 13

    Title: 5 Audit Triggers Contractors MUST Avoid 

    Season 1 Episode 13

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Episode Summary:
    In this episode of the Savvy or Surrender Podcast, host Steven Young breaks down the five most common mistakes that increase your chances of getting audited by the IRS as a business owner—especially for contractors and those in the trades. Steven explains how audits are triggered, what red flags the IRS looks for, and provides actionable tips to avoid costly mistakes. From underreported income to messy records and misclassified workers, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you stay compliant, organized, and stress-free come tax season.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 – Introduction: Why audits happen and what to expect
    01:18 – Welcome to the Savvy or Surrender Podcast
    02:36 – IRS audit algorithms and how they target businesses
    03:58 – What to expect from a typical audit letter
    06:44 – Red Flag #1: Underreported income (1099s, payment processors, cash jobs)
    09:44 – How to handle 1099-Ks from Venmo, PayPal, and more
    11:40 – Bookkeeping software recommendations
    13:10 – Red Flag #2: Excessive or unusual deductions (auto, equipment, travel)
    15:00 – How to document large write-offs and avoid expense clumping
    18:24 – Red Flag #3: Misclassifying workers (contractors vs. employees)
    20:23 – The IRS test for employee vs. contractor
    23:33 – Why you need W-9s and written contracts
    25:33 – Red Flag #4: Messy or missing records (receipts, mileage logs, estimates)
    28:21 – Best practices for digital recordkeeping
    31:02 – Red Flag #5: Home office deduction mistakes
    33:14 – How to correctly claim your home office and storage space
    35:28 – The importance of consistency, documentation, and honesty
    38:00 – Outro: How to get more support from the Savvy Tax Hub

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    Hashtags:

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    25 min
  • 10 Tax Deductions Contractors Miss (and Bonus Strategies!): Episode 12

    Title: 10 Tax Deductions Contractors Miss (and Bonus Strategies!)

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Summary: Steven Young shares the top 10 tax deductions contractors often miss, plus two bonus strategies to save even more. Learn how to track expenses, avoid common mistakes, and maximize your write-offs before year-end. Perfect for contractors looking to keep more of their hard-earned money.

    Host: Steven Young, Savvy or Surrender Podcast

    [00:00] Introduction

    • Why contractors overpay taxes
    • Overview of 10 deductions and bonus strategies

    [00:19] Meet Your Host

    • Steven Young introduces the episode and its focus on maximizing deductions

    [01:37] Deduction #1: Tools & Equipment

    • What qualifies as deductible tools and equipment
    • Safe harbor rule for items under $2,500
    • Section 179 and bonus depreciation
    • Common mistakes: missing receipts, cash purchases

    [05:11] Deduction #2: Mileage vs. Actual Vehicle Expenses

    • Standard mileage vs. actual expenses
    • When to use each method
    • Tracking mileage: QuickBooks app, MileIQ

    [09:18] Deduction #3: Uniforms & Safety Gear

    • What clothing and gear is deductible
    • Importance of capturing receipts

    [11:19] Deduction #4: Job Supplies & Materials

    • Commonly missed supplies (pipes, wire, nails, etc.)
    • Tracking materials used on jobs

    [12:21] Deduction #5: Subcontractor Payments

    • Importance of W-9s and 1099s
    • Audit triggers and best practices

    [14:31] Deduction #6: Cell Phone & Internet

    • Calculating business use percentage
    • Deducting software and cloud services

    [16:46] Deduction #7: Business Insurance

    • Types of insurance you can deduct
    • Tips for audits and tracking insurance codes

    [23:45] Deduction #8: Education, Licensing & Training

    • Deducting courses, seminars, and coaching

    [24:52] Deduction #9: Home Office & Storage Space

    • Rules for home office deduction
    • Including garage and storage areas

    [28:07] Deduction #10: Meals, Travel & Overnight Jobs

    • What qualifies for 50% vs. 100% deduction
    • Using per diem rates

    [29:35] Bonus Strategy #1: Board Meetings

    • How to write off meals and meetings with proper documentation

    [31:19] Bonus Strategy #2: The Augusta Rule

    • Renting your home to your business for meetings/events

    [32:55] Year-End Wrap-Up

    • Importance of having your books in order
    • Call to action: Schedule a discovery call at meetwithsavvy.com

    SEO Keywords:
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    35 min
  • How to Start the Profit First Method for Small Contractors (Step-by-Step): Episode 11

    Episode Title: How to Start the Profit First Method for Small Contractors (Step-by-Step)

    Host: Steven, Savvy Tax Strategies and Bookkeeping

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Summary:
    In this episode of the Savvy or Surrender Podcast, Steven breaks down the Profit First system for contractors, providing a step-by-step guide to managing cash flow, setting up bank accounts, and ensuring your business is profitable. Learn how to shift your mindset, allocate income, avoid common pitfalls, and set your business up for long-term success. Whether you’re a small contractor or a growing business, this episode offers actionable advice to help you stop living paycheck to paycheck and start building real profit.

    Timestamps & Highlights:

    00:00 – Introduction: Why contractors struggle with cash flow
    00:26 – Who this episode is for & what you’ll learn
    00:51 – What is Profit First? The envelope system for business
    03:18 – The five essential bank accounts for Profit First
    04:34 – The contractor twist: Isolating materials and subcontractors
    06:46 – Why Profit First fails: Common implementation mistakes
    10:15 – The mindset shift: Sales minus profit equals expenses
    13:15 – The importance of paying yourself and avoiding burnout
    16:25 – Making your business sellable and sustainable
    18:14 – How to adjust expenses and avoid overdraft
    21:14 – Target allocation percentages (TAPs) for contractors
    24:27 – How to set and gradually increase your TAPs
    27:28 – When and how often to allocate funds (10/25 rule vs. weekly)
    30:12 – How to handle income account buffers and allocations
    34:13 – Quarterly profit distributions and building resilience
    38:13 – Your first 7 days: Step-by-step implementation plan
    42:56 – Common pitfalls: Stealing from accounts, overpromising, ignoring seasonality
    48:19 – Real-world example: Handling seasonality and big bills
    51:51 – The importance of job costing for larger contractors
    54:16 – Assignment: Open your accounts and do your first allocation
    56:23 – Free resources: Take the Profit First quiz and get core chapters
    57:45 – Outro: Subscribe, review, and what’s next

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    36 min
  • Why Is My $1 Million Service-Based Business Broke?: Episode 10

    Episode 10 – Why Is My $1 Million Service-Based Business Broke?

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Description:
    In this milestone 10th episode of The Savvy or Surrender Podcast, Host Steven Young dives deep into the hidden reasons why even seven-figure service-based businesses can struggle with cash flow. Learn why big revenue doesn’t always mean big profits, the most common financial mistakes business owners make, and actionable steps to finally take control of your money. If you’ve ever wondered where your money is going—or why your bank account doesn’t reflect your hard work—this episode is for you.

    Show Notes

    00:00 – Introduction

    Steven opens the episode, celebrating the 10th show milestone.
    Importance of podcast consistency and audience engagement.

    00:45 – The Illusion of Success

    Big revenue doesn’t guarantee cash in the bank.
    Revenue ≠ Profit. Many business owners struggle with cash flow despite high sales.

    02:13 – Overspending on Growth

    Common mistake: investing in growth (equipment, staff, offices) before profits justify it.
    Real-life examples: Boston Market, Mattress Firm.

    07:16 – Poor Cash Flow Management

    Watching the bank balance instead of managing cash flow.
    Importance of systems like Profit First and cash flow forecasting.

    08:47 – Underpricing and Overdelivering

    Fear of charging what you’re worth leads to exhaustion and underpayment.
    The “Savvy Ritz” concept: providing first-class service at budget prices is unsustainable.

    11:48 – Being Reactive on Taxes

    Treating taxes as a once-a-year event leads to surprises and financial stress.
    The wealthy plan for taxes all year.

    14:14 – Lack of Financial Clarity

    Outdated or messy bookkeeping leads to poor decision-making.
    Importance of reconciled accounts and understanding financial statements.

    16:54 – The Savvy Fix: How to Stop Being Broke at a Million

    Adopt Profit First: pay yourself first, set up multiple bank accounts.
    Know your real numbers: track profit margins, expenses, and trends.
    Stop buying growth without ROI.
    Schedule regular money meetings.
    Build a cash cushion (3 months of expenses).

    23:32 – From Operator to CEO

    Shift from chasing money to controlling it.
    Take the Savvy Tax Strategies quiz and get free Profit First chapters.
    Book a Savvy Path to Cash assessment.

    25:28 – Closing

    Steven thanks listeners, encourages reviews and engagement.
    Teaser for next episode.

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    26 min
  • When to DIY and When to Hire: Episode 9

    Podcast Title: Savvy or Surrender Podcast – Episode 9
    Host: Steven Young

    Episode Title: When to DIY and When to Hire

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Summary:
    In this episode, Steven Young explores the critical decision every business owner faces: when to handle tasks yourself and when to bring in a professional. Drawing from personal stories and client experiences, Steven breaks down the cost-benefit analysis of DIY versus hiring, especially in the context of bookkeeping, taxes, and business growth.

    Timestamps & Key Topics:

    • [0:00] Introduction
      Steven welcomes listeners and introduces the topic: DIY vs. hiring a professional.
    • [0:48] The “Chief Everything Officer” Trap
      Why business owners try to do it all and when that becomes a problem.
    • [1:35] Personal DIY Story: Landscaping Gone Wrong
      Steven’s experience with a home project, the hidden costs, and the moment he realized he needed an expert.
    • [4:02] The True Cost of Cheap Help
      How hiring cheap or doing it yourself can lead to expensive mistakes.
    • [5:23] When DIY Makes Sense
      Criteria for when it’s okay to DIY: low revenue, no employees, simple finances.
    • [6:27] The Value of Understanding Your Systems
      Why it’s good to know your numbers and systems, even if you plan to outsource later.
    • [7:45] Red Flags: When It’s Time to Hire
      Signs you need a pro: revenue over $100k, employees, IRS letters, emotional money decisions.
    • [9:02] The Peace of Mind from Hiring a Pro
      How professionals can relieve stress and help you sleep better at night.
    • [10:15] The Value of Your Time
      Real client stories: doctors and business owners who lost money by DIYing their taxes and books.
    • [11:07] Staying Involved in Your Finances
      Even when you hire, you should know your numbers and review reports.
    • [11:56] Taking the Next Step
      How to move out of DIY mode and get a business review.
    • [12:19] Client Story: From DIY to Professional Help
      A client’s journey from doing his own books to hiring Steven, and the financial impact.
    • [14:02] Planning for Growth: The Expansion Account
      Using Profit First to safely scale your business and prepare for hiring.
    • [16:41] The Profit First System Explained
      How to set up accounts, manage cash flow, and use the Profit First formula.
    • [21:31] Additional Accounts for Growth
      Creating accounts for debt, expansion, or new hires.
    • [22:51] Weekly Allocations and Automation
      Tips for making Profit First work for you.
    • [23:49] DIY Taxes and When to Get Help
      The risks of using TurboTax and missing deductions.
    • [24:46] Final Thoughts & Resources
      When to DIY, when to hire, and where to get more help.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
    • MeetWithSavvy.com – Book a discovery call
    • Savvy CEO Alliance – Free community for business owners

    Connect with Steven Young:

    • Website: Savvy Tax Strategies & Bookkeeping

    Call to Action:
    If you’re feeling stuck in DIY mode or want to learn more about optimizing your business finances, book a discovery call or join the Savvy CEO Alliance community.

    Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.



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    25 min
  • What the Wealthy Know About Taxes: Episode 8

    What the Wealthy Know About Taxes – Savvy or Surrender Podcast (Episode 8)

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Welcome back to Savvy or Surrender! In this episode, our host Steven Young reveals the tax strategies the wealthy use to maximize their savings and grow their wealth—strategies that most business owners have never been taught. If you want to stop leaving money on the table and start playing by the rules that benefit you, this episode is a must-listen.

    Timestamps & Topics Covered:
    00:00 – Introduction: The IRS and Your Intentions
    01:00 – Why Most Business Owners Miss Out on Tax Savings
    02:00 – Tax Prep vs. Tax Strategy: What’s the Difference?
    04:00 – The Wealthy’s Playbook: Entity Structuring (LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp)
    07:00 – Hiring Your Kids: A Legitimate Tax Write-Off
    10:00 – The Augusta Rule: 14 Days of Tax-Free Income
    13:00 – Cost Segregation: Advanced Real Estate Strategies
    16:00 – Section 179: Writing Off Equipment Purchases
    18:00 – S-Corp Payroll Optimization: Save on Self-Employment Tax
    21:00 – Accountable Plans: Reimbursing Personal Business Expenses
    24:00 – Retirement Strategies: Solo 401k & Defined Benefit Plans
    26:00 – Energy Credits & Other Opportunities
    28:00 – Common Mistakes Business Owners Make
    31:00 – Taking Action: The 360 Tax Assessment
    33:00 – Closing Thoughts & Next Episode Preview

    Key Takeaways:
    Tax strategy is about being proactive, not just filing paperwork.
    The wealthy use legal structures and strategies to minimize taxes.
    Hiring your children, leveraging the Augusta Rule, and cost segregation can save thousands.
    Don’t commingle business and personal funds—structure matters!
    A 360 tax assessment can reveal savings you never knew existed.

    Resources Mentioned:
    MeetWithSavvy.com – Schedule your 360 Tax Assessment
    “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

    Connect with Us:
    Subscribe for more episodes and tax-saving tips!
    Leave a 5-star review if you found this valuable.
    Questions or topics you want covered? Drop them in the comments!

    Thanks for tuning in to Savvy or Surrender. Stay savvy, and see you next week!

    #SmallBusinessTips, #TaxStrategy, #BusinessTaxes, #EntrepreneurFinance, #TaxWriteOffs, #LLCvsSCorp, #BusinessStructure, #SelfEmploymentTax, #TaxPlanning, #SmartMoneyMoves

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    34 min
  • Why cashflow is better than ego: Episode 7

    Title: Why cashflow is better than ego

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Summary In this episode of the Savvy or Surrender Podcast, host Steven Young dives deep into the importance of cash flow over ego for business owners. He explains why big revenue numbers can be deceiving, shares actionable tips for managing cash flow, and discusses the Profit First method for financial health. Steven also shares real-world stories, common ego traps, and practical strategies to help you build a more profitable, stress-free business.

    Show Notes & Timestamps:

    • 00:00 — Introduction: Why cash flow matters more than ego
    • 00:44 — Welcome, subscribe, and podcast housekeeping
    • 01:03 — The problem with focusing on revenue over cash flow
    • 01:39 — Defining cash flow and its real impact
    • 03:18 — Phantom cash flow and the reality of business finances
    • 04:04 — Vanity metrics vs. real business health
    • 06:31 — The Profit First method explained
    • 09:10 — Understanding P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow statements
    • 11:40 — Real-world client story: Turning a business around with Profit First
    • 14:39 — Ego moves vs. savvy moves in business decisions
    • 16:51 — Smart investments and hiring strategies
    • 19:44 — How to get help and next steps for your business
    • 20:24 — Closing thoughts and quote: "You can impress people or you can pay yourself first. You decide."

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    21 min
  • From Confusion to Clarity--Entity Structuring and Tax Write-Offs That Really Save You Money: Episode 6

    Savvy or Surrender Ep 6

    Title: From Confusion to Clarity--Entity Structuring and Tax Write-Offs That Really Save You Money

    ❗Don’t forget to download the episode — that way you never miss the game-changing cash flow tips that keep your business running strong. 

    Too many business owners either overpay in taxes or follow bad advice from social media that could land them in IRS trouble. In this episode of The Savvy or Surrender Podcast, host Steven Young, Profit First Professional and small business expert, breaks down the right way to set up your business structure and take legal tax write-offs that can save you thousands every year.

    You’ll learn the differences between sole proprietorships, LLCs, S Corps, and C Corps, which structure fits your income level, and how to avoid IRS red flags. Stephen also shares over 30 legitimate write-offs—from hiring your kids and home office deductions to health reimbursements, the Augusta Rule, and Section 179 depreciation.

    If you’re ready to run your business smarter and keep more of what you earn, this episode is a must-listen.

    Keywords: small business taxes, tax deductions, S-Corp vs LLC, business structure, write-offs, Profit First, IRS audit tips, entrepreneur tax planning, small business accounting, tax strategies.


    Show Notes & Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome + Why This Matters
    Stephen opens the episode by explaining why so many small-business owners overpay taxes or follow risky online advice. Learn what this episode will fix — how to choose the right business structure and claim write-offs safely.

    01:00 – Host Intro & Mission
    Meet Stephen Young, Profit First Professional and small-business advocate. He shares his background, the purpose of The Savvy or Surrender Podcast, and why understanding profit and taxes is essential to staying in business.

    03:00 – From Skill to Strategy
    The classic example: a great plumber who struggles as a business owner. Stephen highlights why financial systems and education — not just skill — make or break entrepreneurs.

    05:00 – Sole Proprietor vs. LLC
    Learn what it means to operate as a sole proprietor, when to form an LLC, and how “piercing the veil” can expose your personal assets if you mix business and personal funds.

    07:00 – C-Corporations & Taxes
    Stephen breaks down how C-Corps are taxed at 21%, what forms are required, and when this setup makes sense (usually for larger or growth-focused companies).

    9:00 S-Corporations: The Smart Middle Ground
    How to elect S-Corp status with IRS Form 2553, reduce self-employment tax, and pay yourself a reasonable salary. Includes payroll basics and deadlines to remember.

    12:00 Understanding Self-Employment Tax
    What the 15.3 % self-employment tax really covers — and how S-Corps help you save thousands by splitting income between wages and owner distributions.

    14:30 Real-World Example
    Stephen shows how one client saved over $7,500 per year simply by restructuring as an S-Corp.

    18:00 Home Office, Meals & Sponsorships
    What qualifies as a home-office deduction, how to properly deduct meals (50 % vs 100 %), and how sponsoring your kid’s team can count as marketing — not charity.

    21:00 Hiring Your Kids
    Rules for paying your children tax-free through your business, with real examples like Stephen writing off his son’s taekwondo lessons.

    23:30 Health, Retirement & Advanced Deductions
    Using HSAs, HRAs, and Solo 401(k)s for tax-free reimbursements. Plus, bonus strategies: the Augusta Rule, Section 179, and 20 % QBI deduction.

    25:30 Accountable Plans
    How to reimburse yourself tax-free for car use, mileage, and home-to-office expenses — the right way.


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    small business taxes, bus

    @savvytaxes

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    28 min

About Savvy or Surrender - Your Guide to Profit, Cash Flow, and Tax Savings

From the publisher's feed

Running a business shouldn’t feel like a never-ending fight for cash. On Savvy or Surrender, host Steven Young cuts through the noise and shows real business owners how to take…