Encouragement from Dennis Bays

As a successful business owner, you know that innovation comes with risk—and sometimes, projects don’t pan out as planned. The good news? The R&D Tax Credit is designed to reward the effort of innovation, not just the outcome. Even if your energy-saving idea didn’t work, you may still qualify for valuable tax incentives and other funding programs to boost your cash flow for your next big project.

1. R&D Tax Credit: You Don’t Need a “Win” to Benefit

The R&D Tax Credit is available to businesses that invest in developing new or improved products, processes, or technologies—even if those projects fail in testing. What matters is that your activities meet the IRS’s four-part test:

• Aimed at improving a business component
• Based on hard sciences or engineering
• Intended to resolve technical uncertainty
• Involving a process of experimentation

You can claim the credit for qualified expenses even if the project didn’t result in a commercial product or process.

2. How to Claim Credits for Past R&D Expenses

If you incurred eligible R&D expenses in previous years, you may still be able to claim the credit retroactively by filing an amended tax return. Here’s how:

Don’t Leave Money on the Table:

We help entrepreneurs claim credits for current expenses, but also for past work they put in on a project. Unfortunately, we also regularly speak with businesspeople who miss out on R&D tax credits because when they don’t realize what can be included.  Americore Group has a team who comb through information and records to determine the maximum fair credits a business can claim.

Recent Tax Credit Change:

The White House administration has made it easier to claim the credit for past years by allowing immediate expensing of domestic R&D costs (no more five-year amortization for U.S. projects), and by providing a special retroactive election for small businesses to apply this rule to 2022–2024 expenses. The deadline for this retroactive election is July 4, 2026.

3. What’s New Under the Current Administration

• Immediate Expensing Restored: You can now deduct domestic R&D costs in the year they’re incurred, rather than spreading them over five years.
• Catch-Up Deductions: If you previously had to capitalize R&D costs, you can deduct the remaining balance in 2025 (or split between 2025 and 2026).
• Retroactive Relief for Small Businesses: If your average annual gross receipts were $31 million or less (2022–2024), you can amend past returns to claim immediate expensing for those years.
• Updated IRS Forms: The IRS has revised Form 6765, requiring more detailed project-level information starting with 2026 tax returns (optional for 2025).
• Payroll Tax Offset: If you’re a qualified small business, you can use up to $500,000 of your credit per year to offset payroll taxes, improving cash flow even if you’re not profitable yet.

4. Alternative Programs to Enhance Cash Flow

If you’re looking for additional ways to fund your new energy-saving project, consider these options:

• SBIR/STTR Grants: Federal programs that provide non-dilutive funding for innovative R&D, including energy efficiency projects. The Department of Energy is a major participant.
• DOE Grants and Loans: The Department of Energy offers grants, technical assistance, and commercialization support for energy-saving technologies.
• SBA Loans: The Small Business Administration’s 7(a), 504, and microloan programs can provide working capital or equipment financing.
• State Incentives: Many states offer grants, tax credits, and low-interest loans for energy projects.
• Private Funding: Green banks, impact investors, and venture capital may be available for projects with strong commercialization potential.

Most of these programs do not disqualify you for having a previous project that didn’t succeed. They focus on the potential of your new idea and your commitment to innovation.

5. Summary Table: Key R&D Tax Credit and Funding Updates

Final Thoughts

Even if your last R&D project didn’t succeed, you have powerful tools at your disposal to enhance cash flow and fund your next venture. The R&D Tax Credit, especially with recent rule changes, can provide immediate and retroactive benefits. Combine this with grants, loans, and state incentives, and you’ll be well-positioned to pursue your next big idea.

Stay optimistic. Innovation is a journey, and every step (even the setbacks) can lead to new opportunities for growth Falcon Wealth Advisors*

The Current Jobs Landscape: California Economy at a Crossroads

San Francisco, once the epicenter of tech-fueled job growth, now faces unique challenges. The California unemployment rate has ticked upward, reflecting broader economic uncertainty. In 2025, the city has seen significant rounds of layoffs in major techcompanies, with AI tech further automating many roles.  Despite a surge in venture capital fund activity, especially in AI startups, these new opportunities don’t always translate into widespread job creation. The result: an unpredictable job outlook and increased competition for open positions. Additionally, the cost of living in San Francisco remains among the highest in the nation. Housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses put extra pressure on families and business owners, making robust financial planning and effective cash flow and risk management indispensable.

October: A Critical Month for Financial Planning

Why is October so important? For Californians, it’s the month for tackling crucial financial decisions:

• Retirement plan deadlines (such as CalSavers registration for SMBs)
• Tax filing extensions for those who requested more time
• Student aid applications for families with college-bound children
• Reviewing healthcare options ahead of open enrollment

Missing these deadlines can mean lost opportunities or unnecessary costs. For business owners and professionals, October is the ideal time to review your financial strategy and make adjustments before year-end.

Building Financial Resilience Amid Uncertainty

1. Emergency Savings: Your First Line of Defense

With layoffs and job market volatility, an emergency fund is essential. Financial planners recommend saving 3–6 months of living expenses; in San Francisco, you might aim even higher due to elevated costs. Automate savings to a high-yield account and review your funds regularly, especially after large withdrawals or changes in your household budget.

2. Cash Flow and Risk Management for SMBs

Business owners must pay close attention to cash flow. Implement rolling forecasts, monitor receivables, and accelerate collections when possible. Audit expenses and cut non-essential costs to free up cash. Consider working with a CFO or financial planner near you to fine-tune your strategy, optimize liquidity, and prepare for unexpected downturns.

3. Tax Planning: Don’t Miss Key Deductions

October is a great time to review your tax situation before year-end. With California’s changing tax environment and new federal rules, maximizing deductions is more important than ever:

• Harvest tax losses to offset gains
• Accelerate property tax and state income tax payments if you’re under the SALT deduction cap
• Max out retirement contributions (401(k), IRA, SEP-IRA)
• Consider charitable giving strategies

Working with a financial planner or Family CFO can help ensure you don’t miss important opportunities for tax savings.

4. Healthcare Cost Reduction: Review Options

Healthcare is a major expense for California families. Use October to:

• Compare plans during open enrollment
• Consider high-deductible plans with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
• Explore local resources like Healthy San Francisco for affordable coverage
• For SMBs, assess group health plans, HRAs, or wellness programs

Reducing healthcare costs improves your financial resilience and frees up cash for other priorities.

5. Retirement Security: CalSavers Deadline Approaches

All California businesses with W-2 employees must offer a retirement plan (such as CalSavers) or a qualified alternative by December 31, 2025. Failing to comply can result in penalties. Review your options now:

• CalSavers IRA: Simple, low-cost, but with contribution limits
• SIMPLE IRA or 401(k): Higher limits, potential employer match, more flexibility

Educate your employees about their choices and make sure you’re on track by the deadline.

How AI Tech and Venture Capital Are Shaping the Job Market

AI tech is transforming the job market in San Francisco and throughout California. While new startups draw billions in venture capital fund investments, the jobs they create often require specialized skills or are fewer in number compared to larger tech employers. This shift underscores the importance of ongoing professional development and financial adaptability. If you’re navigating career transitions or considering a move to a new industry, invest in upskilling and networking with local professional organizations. And remember—strategic financial preparation is your safety net while adapting to changes in the economy.

The Role of a Family CFO: Personalized Guidance for Uncertain Times

In a complex economic environment, individualized support is invaluable. AmeriCore’s Family CFO services provide comprehensive financial oversight for SMBs and families:

• Holistic financial planning: Integrate budgeting, investing, insurance, and estate planning
• Cash flow management: Proactive strategies to maintain liquidity and reduce risk
• Tax optimization: Identify deductions and strategies unique to California taxpayers
• Risk management: Protect assets and prepare for unforeseen events

A Family CFO coordinates with your other advisors (such as CPAs and attorneys), ensuring your financial plan remains on track—no matter how the job market shifts.

Action Steps for October: Secure Your Financial Future

1. Review your emergency savings and cash flow plan.
2. Meet with a financial planner near you or consult a Family CFO for tailored advice.
3. Don’t miss critical deadlines for taxes, retirement plans, and healthcare enrollment.
4. Explore ways to cut costs and increase savings, especially in high-expense categories.
5. Stay informed about the California economy, job outlook, and new opportunities in AI tech.

Prepare Now, Thrive Tomorrow

San Francisco’s job market uncertainty and high cost of living make proactive financial planning more important than ever. October is your chance to take control: review your finances, avoid missed deadlines, and work with trusted professionals to build lasting resilience. Ready to safeguard your future? Contact AmeriCore’s Family CFO team for expert guidance, customized strategies, and peace of mind in uncertain times.

The problem? Without the right advisors — including tax attorneys, CPAs, and strategic financial consultants — tax planning can become a maze of missed deductions, overpaid liabilities, and compliance risks.

At AmeriCore, we specialize in connecting clients to a trusted CPA network and tax attorney consulting team that collaborates on every aspect of your financial picture. Together, we help you minimize liabilities, maximize returns, and position yourself for long-term success.

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Why Complex Tax Strategies Require Specialized Expertise

The U.S. tax code spans over 6,500 pages, with thousands of additional pages in regulations, IRS rulings, and state-specific laws. For individuals and businesses with diverse income streams or complex holdings, the standard approach to tax preparation isn’t enough.

You may need a specialized strategy if you:

• Own a business with multiple revenue streams or operate in more than one state
• Receive stock options, RSUs, or significant investment income
• Have large charitable giving or philanthropic activities
• Hold international assets or conduct cross-border business
• Anticipate major capital gains events (real estate sales, asset liquidation, mergers)

Without targeted planning, these scenarios can lead to overpayment of taxes, audit exposure, and missed legal opportunities for savings.

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AmeriCore’s Three-Pillar Approach to Advanced Tax Planning

Our proven process is built on three core pillars:

1. Comprehensive Review & Tax Stress Point Identification

Before building a plan, we conduct a deep-dive review of past returns, current structures, and income sources. This allows us to pinpoint “tax stress points” — areas where liabilities are higher than they need to be.

Example stress points include:

• Inefficient entity structure for business operations
• Misaligned investment and tax strategies
• Underutilized retirement and deferred compensation plans

2. Collaborative Planning with CPAs and Tax Attorneys

Unlike firms that work in silos, AmeriCore coordinates CPA expertise with tax attorney oversight to ensure every strategy is legally sound and financially optimized.

Our CPA partners:

• Identify deductions, credits, and exemptions
• Provide accurate reporting and ensure IRS compliance

Our tax attorney partners:

• Structure transactions for maximum protection
• Represent clients in complex tax disputes or audits
• Advice on trust, estate, and entity structuring

By combining these perspectives, we create strategic tax solutions that address both the legal and financial dimensions of your plan.

3. Ongoing Strategy Monitoring & Adjustment

Tax planning isn’t a set-and-forget process. Regulations, market conditions, and personal circumstances change, which means your strategy must evolve as well.

We review your plan quarterly to understand:

• Capture new tax-saving opportunities
• Adjust to legislative changes
• Align with shifts in your income, investments, or goals

IRS Business/Entrepreneur Credits & Deductions

Case Study: Saving $250,000 in Capital Gains Taxes

A commercial real estate investor came to AmeriCore after years of paying steep capital gains taxes. By restructuring their business entity, timing asset sales strategically, and leveraging 1031 exchanges, we helped them:

• Reduce taxable income by $250,000 over three years
• Defer additional gains for reinvestment
• Integrate retirement contributions for further liability reduction

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When to Engage AmeriCore for Tax Strategy Support

You should consider working with us if you:

• Anticipate a major life or business change (sales, acquisition, expansion)
• Have investments with significant unrealized gains
• Feel your current CPA or preparer isn’t proactively saving you money
• Want a long-term, integrated approach to tax, investment, and business planning

ResourceShark Financial Consulting Directory

The AmeriCore Advantage

What makes AmeriCore different is our network-driven, client-first model. We don’t just prepare returns — we engineer financial strategies by tapping into an elite circle of CPAs, tax attorneys, and financial experts. Our goal is to help clients retain more of what they earn while staying ahead of tax law changes.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Your tax plan should be working as hard as you are. With the right advisors in place, you can transform taxes from a yearly burden into a powerful financial tool.

Contact AmeriCore today to schedule your confidential tax strategy consultation and learn how our CPA network and tax attorney consulting can help you minimize liabilities and maximize returns.

Time to Reflect

The end of the year is a natural time for reflection. Review your financial goals and assess how well you met them throughout the year. Use an estimation to check what you think your tax liability will be, and whether you should take further action to reduce it. This reflection can help you adjust your strategies for the upcoming year.

Tax Planning Opportunities

The 4th quarter offers unique opportunities to make financial moves that can reduce your tax burden. This might include maximizing contributions to retirement accounts, making charitable donations, or strategically selling investments to offset gains. By planning now, you can take advantage of tax benefits before the year ends.

Avoiding Surprises

The earlier you review your financial situation, the more time you have to address any potential tax surprises. If you wait until tax season, it may be too late to make beneficial changes. Planning in advance helps you avoid any last-minute scrambling or unintended tax consequences.

Consulting with Professionals on Taxes

Working with a financial advisor during this time can provide invaluable insights. Advisors like Dennis Bays, who owns AmeriCore in the Bay Area, can help you navigate complex tax laws, identify opportunities for savings, and develop a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your needs. Their expertise can make a significant difference in your financial outcomes.

Working with a Financial Professional Like Dennis Bays

Navigating the world of finance and taxes can be daunting, especially in the 4^th quarter. This is where experienced financial professionals come into play. Planners like Dennis Bays at AmeriCore offer personalized guidance to help you make informed financial decisions. Here’s how they can help

Customized Financial Strategies and Planned Taxes

Dennis Bays and his team can analyze your financial situation and create a tailored plan that aligns with your goals. This personalized approach ensures that your strategy is effective and relevant to your unique circumstances.

Expert Financial Knowledge

Advisors and planners stay up-to-date on financial regulations and tax laws, which can change frequently. Their expertise can help you make smart decisions that maximize your savings and minimize your tax liabilities.

Ongoing Support

Financial planning is an ongoing process. Working with an advisor means you have a partner to help you adjust your plan as your life circumstances change, ensuring you remain on track to achieve your long-term goals.

Conclusion

With the right financial professional like Dennis Bays, the 4th quarter is the perfect time to evaluate your strategies, especially concerning taxes. After professional consultation, by setting clear goals and reviewing tax efficiency you can ensure that you are on the right path to achieving your financial dreams. Don’t wait until year’s end or tax season – start planning now for a brighter and more secure financial future!

Recognize and Understand Your Needs and Goals

Mathew McConaughey, in a great 5 minute YouTube video told us the first step in hitting your life goals is to know yourself. Don’t worry if this stops you dead in your tracks, lots of people don’t know who they are or what they want. Take some time to figure out what defines your personal financial goals are. What others think doesn’t matter in this thought process. This is about what you want out of life and out of retirement. What are your priorities? Is it Family? Faith? Money? Travel? Making a difference in the world? Whatever the goals are, is fine. Just recognize them.

The Path to Meeting Financial Goals

Before you find the right financial advisor for your future, be clear about your financial objectives, whether it’s retirement planning, investment management, debt reduction, tax planning, or a combination of these. Understanding your financial needs will help you find an advisor or planner specializing in the areas you require assistance with.

Credentials and Qualifications

Make sure when you look for a financial professional that they have the relevant credentials to your needs.  Advisors should be a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Public Accountant (CPA). These designations indicate that the advisor has received specialized training and adheres to ethical standards. Common credentials for a financial planner include a degree or industry experience, a CFP (certified financial planner), CFA (chartered financial analyst), and ChFC (chartered financial consultant). 

This is a good time to stop and review the difference between a financial planner and a financial advisor. Both financial planners and financial advisors provide financial services, but they differ in their approach and the types of services they offer: 

How Financial Planners Differ From Financial Advisors

Financial planners take more of a big picture approach to their client’s finances.  They look at all the aspects, interests, needs and long-term goals. They help clients with long term plans to address those multiple aspects and goals, and regularly update the plans over time to keep clients on the path that best suits their changing desires, goals and needs.

Service Differences Between Financial Advisors and Financial Planners

Financial advisors are known to be more focused on specific transactions and short-term situations, such as managing investments. When clients have short term concerns or need specific investment or transactional assistance, a financial advisor may be the right solution. Some financial advisors may also take on a more comprehensive role, similar to a financial planner. 

Education requirements for Each

Financial planners often have a bachelor’s degree and must have a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. They also adhere to the CFP board’s four E’s (education, examination, experience, and ethics). Financial advisors may also need a bachelor’s degree, but they only need certifications for specific roles and responsibilities. 

Experience

Financial planners often gain experience through an apprenticeship or by shadowing a certified financial planner. Financial advisors typically work under the supervision of an experienced financial professional for at least one year. 

Generally speaking, financial planners develop long-term, strategic plans that address various aspects of client’s lives and update the plan on a regular basis over the years. Financial advisors tend to focus on specific transactions and short-term situations.

Communication and Accessibility

Regardless of whether you want an advisor or planner, make sure you can work with someone  who communicates clearly and is accessible when you have questions or concerns about your financial plan.

Check the Fee Structure

Understand how the financial advisor charges for their services. Some advisors charge a percentage of your assets under management, while others charge a flat fee or an hourly rate. Look for an advisor or planner who is transparent about their process, fees, and potential conflicts of interest. Avoid advisors who earn commissions on financial products they sell, as this may create conflicts of interest.

Remember, finding the right financial advisor or financial planner is a personal process, based on your current and future needs.  Choose someone you trust and feel comfortable working with. Take your time, do your research, and make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals. Contact us if you have any questions on this or other financial planning related information.

Re-Establishing Financial Goals

Semi-annual financial plan reviews provide an opportunity for individuals to assess their current financial situation and reassess their long-term goals. Setting specific and achievable financial objectives is a method of gaining clarity on whether your goals still align with your situation.  Is also an opportunity to decide today what you want to accomplish and create a roadmap for achieving your target. Whether the goal is to retire early, purchase a home, or travel the world, a well-defined financial plan is essential for success.

Budget and Expense Management

Regular financial plan reviews allow individuals to scrutinize their spending habits and identify areas for improvement. By analyzing their income and expenses every six months, individuals can make informed decisions about their financial priorities. This process enables them to allocate resources more effectively, reduce unnecessary expenses, and increase savings, thus moving closer to financial independence.

Investment Portfolio Evaluation

Semi-annual financial plan reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate investment portfolios and make necessary adjustments. By assessing the performance of their investments and comparing it to their financial goals, individuals can rebalance their portfolios, reallocate assets, and consider new investment opportunities. This proactive approach ensures that their investment strategy remains aligned with their long-term financial objectives.

Debt Management and Reduction

Managing and reducing debt is a critical component of achieving financial independence. Through semi-annual financial plan reviews, individuals can assess their current debt levels, analyze interest rates, and develop strategies to pay down debt more effectively. By regularly monitoring their debt situation, individuals can work towards becoming debt-free, which is a significant milestone on the path to financial independence.

Emergency Fund and Insurance Coverage

Building and maintaining an emergency fund is essential for financial security. Semi-annual financial plan reviews provide an opportunity to assess the adequacy of emergency savings and insurance coverage. A semi-annual review helps you check whether your safety net is sufficient to cover current unexpected expenses. This is especially vulnerable if you already dipped into funds for financially emergency within the last 12 months. Resetting this fund can protect you and your family from financial hardship and maintain progress towards financial independence.

Tax Planning and Optimization

Tax planning is a key aspect of financial independence. Through semi-annual financial plan reviews, individuals can evaluate their financial status against recent changes. They can evaluate tax strategies, explore tax-efficient investment options, and make adjustments based on changes in tax laws. This proactive approach also helps individuals minimize tax liabilities contributing to their overall financial well-being.

 Don’t let the idea of  your semi-annual financial plan review deter you.  We can help you with this fundamental component to protecting wealth and financial independence. By regularly assessing your financial situation, regardless of your current comfort level, you can improve your financial wellbeing.  It involves looking at your current status, re-establishing clear goals, managing expenses, optimizing investments, reducing debt, and ensuring adequate protection.  Follow those steps and regardless of your financial picture today, you can achieve even greater financial independence. Our financial planning goal is to help you build wealth, secure stronger financial well-being, and ultimately gain the freedom to live the life you deserve.

The Secret to Accessing the Right Financial Programs

Through years of research and experience, we’ve discovered successful foundations lie in the strategic utilization of tailored financial programs. We take the time to understand the program details, for a tailored match that meets our client’s unique needs. This applies to businesses from startups seeking capital infusion to established enterprises seeking growth or optimization of working capital. In each situation, our “BlueApple” financial programs can serve as a catalyst for progress.

We can place clients in programs from government incentive programs to specialized asset-based financing and investment solutions.  In fact, we make sure our clients enjoy access to a comprehensive suite of financial resources. The true differentiator of how to succeed in business lies in the expertise that we apply to the implementation of several financial programs.

Overcoming Complex Qualifiers on Applications

As financial professionals, we are driven to bring a wealth of experience, insight, and strategic acumen to the table. So go ahead. Tap into our expertise, to gain a competitive edge and navigate the complexities of the financial landscape with confidence. We help businesses gain access to the programs meant for their businesses. From growth funding to investment strategies and financial planning, our experts are committed to providing businesses with the guidance and support they need to thrive.

Solutions for Success

To succeed in business by leveraging our financial programs and expertise, businesses must embrace a proactive and collaborative approach. It begins with a thorough understanding of their unique financial requirements, growth objectives, and risk appetite. By engaging with our team, businesses benefit from customized financial solutions aligned with their long-term vision and growth trajectory. Our commitment to fostering enduring partnerships ensures that businesses have a trusted ally in their pursuit of success, allowing them to leverage our expertise as a force multiplier for their ambitions.

We Are Informed on Current Trends and Regulations

Moreover, our dedication to staying abreast of financial innovation and industry best practices equips businesses with a competitive advantage. By providing access to innovative financial program resources, alternative financing options, and strategic insights, we empower businesses to stay ahead of the curve. We proactively monitor market trends, regulatory developments, and emerging financial instruments regularly. We do this to give our clients access to the most relevant, effective financial tools to drive their businesses forward.

Understanding the Choices

The answer to how to succeed in business doesn’t lie merely in accessing financial programs.  It lies in understanding how to choose and leverage them strategically to unlock potential. By partnering with us, businesses gain more than just financial resources. Those businesses gain a trusted advisor, a strategic ally, and a catalyst for growth. Leveraging our financial programs and expertise enables

Understanding the Incentive programs  

2024 brought an array of Incentive programs aimed at stimulating economic growth, ensuring financial stability, and addressing emerging challenges. These programs range from tax incentives for businesses to support measures for individuals and families. However, deciphering the eligibility criteria, benefits, and potential pitfalls of these programs can be overwhelming for the average person. This is where the expertise of a financial planning professional becomes invaluable.

Navigating Complexities with Expert Guidance

A financial planning expert possesses the knowledge and experience to guide individuals and businesses through the complexities of Incentive programs. They have a comprehensive understanding of the eligibility requirements, application processes, deadlines, and potential risks associated with each program. By collaborating with a financial planning expert, individuals and businesses can ensure they are making informed decisions and optimizing their financial opportunities.

Tailored Financial Strategies

Financial planning experts recognize that every individual and business has unique financial goals and circumstances. They work closely with their clients to develop tailored strategies that align with their objectives. Whether it’s optimizing tax benefits, securing funding for business expansion, or planning for retirement, a financial planning expert can provide personalized advice and solutions. Through careful individual need analysis and consideration, planners help individuals and businesses take full advantage of the 2024 Incentive programs.

Maximizing Benefits and Minimizing Risks

One of the primary advantages of seeking financial planning expertise is the ability to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. Financial planning experts possess a deep understanding of the potential risks associated with certain Incentive programs. With this knowledge they can guide individuals and businesses accordingly. This skillset helps them guide clients away from potential pitfalls, to informed decisions, and secures the maximum benefits available through the 2024 Incentive programs.

Conclusion  

Navigating the 2024 Incentive programs can be a daunting task without the right expertise. Seeking the guidance of a financial planning expert is key to successfully maneuvering through the complexities of these programs. By collaborating with a professional, individuals and businesses can ensure that they are making informed decisions. That information leads to higher optimization of their financial opportunities while managing potential risks. Embrace the power of financial planning expertise to pave the way for a prosperous financial future in 2024 and beyond.

Start With Your End Goals

Before you review your cash flow, look at your plan. Even once you made a good plan with specific goals in mind, periodic reviews are an incredibly useful tool. Over time, our priorities and our goals change. Reviewing and revising those goals can make sure they continue to be aligned with our shifting priorities. It’s especially ideal to review those goals so you can analyze whether your projected activities will meet them. When your goals are lined up, it’s time to track where your money comes in and goes out.

Track the Cash Flow

Monitoring the cash flow into and out of your business or accounts is one of the best ways to improve your financial health and that of your business. Creating and regularly updating a spreadsheet gives you the data you need for your own financial dashboard or statement.

Cash Flow from Operating Activities

Since the majority of business income comes through sales it is often the first line item on your statement, in the “Cash Flow from Operations” section. Opinions differ on whether they want the numbers in one column or two. But this section will also contain cash outflow such as inventory expense, payroll cost, and other operating expenses. That includes interest paid on loans; sales tax and income tax paid are name common examples.

Cash Flow from Investment Activities

Your Business has other cash inflows and outflows. For instance, proceeds from investments needs a spot on your dashboard. This could be from sale of a property held, or from equipment and other assets held by the business. When equipment, property and other assets are purchased that cash outflow would be listed in this section.

Cash Flow from Financing Activities

This can include bank financing, program funds, grants or even owner contribution. First list the cash received during the analysis period, and then list the repayment of loans if any, owner’s drawings and dividend payments. What’s left is your net cash flow from financing.

Summary

Don’t forget the part where you show opening balance, net cash movement, whether positive or negative and the closing balance. This shows how your position changed during that period. Note: if your cash flow isn’t as strong as you’d like it to be, contact us for details on programs that help change that. We regularly guide our clients through programs and their application process.

Once you know your business spends the most money and the cash reality of your business, you can spot the shortages. It is the first step to aligning your business activities with your end goals. Regular cash flow checkups help you plan your future and ensure a healthier working fund. If you’re interested in information on programs that are great at improving cash flow, we should have a conversation. Tell your Americore representative about your situation and we’ll tell you how we think we can help you improve it.

If you are an entrepreneur in the United States, it is extremely likely that you are missing out on money or savings available to you in a government program. You built your company with your own wit and hard work, but what if you could expand its growth or protect your wealth with a little help from our government? Every day, Americore teaches more financial advisors which programs their clients could qualify for and how to apply. Let us work with your team.

Why Programs are Missed

Many of the programs most beneficial to successful business owners aren’t being fully utilized. Sometimes that is because financial advisors are unaware of the program’s advantages. At other times, an advisor helps to submit a program application unsuccessfully. Because they were unfamiliar with how the program works, their client was denied access to the program’s full rewards. Both parties give up on the program thinking they aren’t eligible to participate. Both parties could be mistaken.

We Study Programs for Your Benefit

Americore has made a career out of becoming thoroughly familiarity with many of those programs. We can assist with the application process because we understand what the requirements are, how the language of the application should be interpreted and what the process wants from candidates.

Adding Government Programs to Financial Planning

There are many programs designed to benefit small and mid-sized businesses. Unfortunately, the business owners these programs were created for often don’t know they are eligible. As a result, these programs don’t even enter into the financial planning thought process. For instance, you might think the R&D research grant money is only available to tech startups, but think again. If you could use funds to conduct research for a product upgrade, or to improve how a product can be used, you may qualify for funds to offset your R&D costs. Dennis Bays of Americore has learned over the years, it is not whether you should be eligible, but how well you complete the paperwork required. He can help you do that.

Just a Few More Government Programs We Can Help With

The US Department of Commerce sponsored Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms (TAAF), to assist manufacturers affected by import competition. This programs offers up to $75K in federal match funding to help firms recover financially from import competition and general business decline. Another program, SBIR wants to help speed up the commercialization of clean technologies by helping firms who want to participate.

Employee Health Benefits

There is still a legitimate program that helps employers with employee healthcare benefits. Employers who are willing to utilize things like tele-healthcare and other new innovations, can get compensation. You pay for your employee benefits, but imagine getting paid to offer a mandatory benefit. It’s a win-win situation.

Every Business has Different Needs

We understand that not every program works for every business. Your business may not qualify for the R&D but you have an interest in a better approach to healthcare benefits. We should open a conversation. Once we talk about your business needs, I’m convinced you will be glad we talked. The savings opportunities alone will make the call worth your time and there’s no upfront cost to you.

Call our office at 747-224-8110 or contact us here. Tell your Americore representative what you’re looking for. Then we can tell you how we think we can help you make that happen.