Self-Employed? You Can Hire Your Spouse!

Lisa Marie Brugman, EA

Published on: 02/02/2026

Hiring your spouse as an employee in your sole proprietorship or partnership can be a powerful tax-saving strategy, but only if structured correctly. Instead of traditional wages, compensate with tax-free benefits like health insurance to maximize deductions while avoiding payroll taxes. A medical reimbursement arrangement (105-HRA or ICHRA) allows you to cover medical costs tax-free. Additional fringe benefits like education expenses or life insurance can further enhance savings. However, your spouse must be a bona fide employee, with documented work duties and fair compensation. Done right, this strategy can minimize taxes and boost business efficiency.

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What New in 2026?

Lisa Marie Brugman, EA

Published on: 27/01/2026

It’s hard to believe we’re already stepping into 2026. Does your tax professional keep you updated on all of the tax law changes that affect you? If your answer is “No” or “I don’t know,” then take a look at this brief on tax law changes that affect you for 2026.

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Download Now. 2026 Tax Resource

Lisa Marie Brugman, EA

Published on: 22/01/2026

The “2026 Tax Resource” is your go-to reference. It puts commonly needed tax information at your fingertips. In the fast-paced, complicated world of taxes, having instant access to key information can make a difference. This handy-dandy reference is your quick-access tool—no more wasting time digging through files or searching online. With this resource saved to your desktop, you have a big chunk of what you need, with just a click on this 2026 Tax Resource.

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Should You Skip Home-Office Depreciation to Dodge Recapture?

Lisa Marie Brugman, EA

Published on: 05/01/2026

If you’ve ever claimed a home-office deduction, chances are you’ve heard the horror stories about depreciation recapture. And if you haven’t heard them directly, you’ve probably absorbed the fear indirectly through tax blogs, Facebook groups, or a well-meaning friend who “read something once."

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