The Randall Parker Blog
Tax strategies, business insights, and financial guidance for individuals and businesses worldwide.
Understanding the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: A Comprehensive Guide for US Expats
Navigating the complexities of international taxation is a challenge for any US citizen living abroad. This guide explores the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, explaining how it works and how to qualify.
Why Every Growing Business Needs a Fractional CFO
Is your business scaling faster than your financial insights? Learn why hiring a fractional CFO provides the strategic expertise you need without the full-time salary overhead.
What is the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)? A Guide for US Expats
Understanding the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion is essential for any American living abroad. This guide breaks down the requirements, calculation, and strategy to help you minimize your US tax burden.
When Should You File an Amended Tax Return: A Guide for US Taxpayers
Discover when it is necessary to file an amended tax return to correct past errors or claim missed deductions. Learn the expert perspective on navigating IRS requirements efficiently.
Paying for College: A Parent's Guide From 7th Grade to Graduation
Every standard way to pay for college, plus strategies most families never hear about. Learn why planning in 7th grade matters, how to keep assets out of the FAFSA's reach, whether a trust can help, how buying a four-plex near campus can erase years of borrowing, and how BYU Pathway Worldwide offers a three-year bachelor's degree for under $10,000.
October 15, 2026 Tax Deadline: File Your 2025 Return Now to Avoid Penalties
With the October 15, 2026 tax deadline approaching, it is vital to finalize your 2025 filings immediately. Learn how to avoid costly IRS penalties and ensure your financial records are compliant by working with an expert.
Top Bookkeeping Mistakes Small Businesses Make and How to Fix Them
Effective bookkeeping is the backbone of any successful small business. Avoid common financial pitfalls with these expert insights from Randall Parker to ensure your company stays audit ready and profitable.
How to Prepare for an IRS Audit: A Comprehensive Guide for Taxpayers
Receiving an IRS audit notice can be stressful, but preparation is your strongest defense. This guide outlines the essential steps to organize your records and represent yourself professionally during an audit.
Using a Self-Directed IRA to Buy Investment Real Estate
A self-directed IRA allows you to hold real estate and other alternative assets in your retirement portfolio. Learn how to navigate the rules to achieve true diversification without triggering tax penalties.
Navigating IRS Paper Filing for US Expats: Signatures, Attachments, and Avoiding Delays
US expats often face unique challenges when filing paper tax returns, from strict signature rules to mailing delays. Learn how to navigate these IRS requirements to ensure your return is processed efficiently.
ITIN Applications: A Comprehensive Guide for International Taxpayers
Navigating the complexities of IRS tax filings for non-residents requires an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Discover who needs an ITIN and the exact steps to secure one effectively.
Philippines PERA Accounts and Foreign Retirement Programs for US Expats: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating retirement savings as a US expat is complex. This guide explores the Philippine PERA account and other international retirement vehicles, focusing on the critical US tax implications every American abroad must understand.
Trump Accounts for Children: A Complete Guide to the New OBBBA Savings Program
Discover how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act creates powerful new wealth-building opportunities for children. This guide covers eligibility, employer benefits, and tax strategies for your family.
Payroll Compliance Pitfalls for Small Businesses: What Costly Mistakes to Avoid
Payroll is one of the most regulated functions a small business handles, and even minor missteps can trigger audits, penalties, and back taxes. Here are the most common payroll compliance pitfalls and how to avoid them. A fractional CFO or tax professional can help you build systems that keep you compliant from day one.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: How the 2026 Federal Student Loan Overhaul Affects You
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act reshapes federal student lending beginning July 1, 2026, with major changes for parents, graduate students, professional students, and families planning for college. While Pell Grants and undergraduate Direct Loans remain intact, borrowing limits, repayment options, and FAFSA rules are changing in ways that demand early planning. Learn what is changing, who is affected, and what steps to take before the new rules apply to your family.
How to Prepare for an IRS Audit: A Comprehensive Guide
Facing an IRS audit can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can navigate it successfully. This guide offers practical steps to help you stay organized and reduce stress during the process.
Understanding FATCA Compliance for Expats: A Comprehensive Guide
FATCA compliance is crucial for US expats to avoid severe penalties. This guide outlines what you need to know to fulfill your obligations effectively.
Understanding Sales Tax Nexus After South Dakota v. Wayfair
Explore the impact of the South Dakota v. Wayfair decision on sales tax nexus and learn how businesses can navigate the complexities of compliance.
The Gambler, the Auditor, and the $25,000 Bet: A Tax Season Story
Still struggling to get your tax returns finished? This one might bring you a little cheer. It's a story about Grandpa, his attorney, and an IRS auditor who never saw it coming.
Effective Strategies to Legally Reduce Self-Employment Taxes
Learn how to legally reduce your self-employment taxes with practical strategies and smart planning. This guide offers actionable tips for entrepreneurs.
Why Every Growing Business Needs a Fractional CFO
As businesses scale, financial complexities increase. Discover how a fractional CFO can provide the strategic edge necessary for sustainable growth.
Your ERC Claim May Be at Risk: What the IRS's New Deadline Extension Means for Your Business
The IRS has introduced a critical new process for businesses with disallowed Employee Retention Credit claims — and a strict two-year deadline that could permanently eliminate your right to a refund. Here's what happened, what it means, and what you must do now.
TrumpIRA.gov: What the New Executive Order Means for Workers Without Retirement Plans
President Trump signed an Executive Order on April 30, 2026 establishing TrumpIRA.gov — a new federal platform to connect workers without employer-sponsored retirement plans to low-cost IRAs, including up to $1,000 in federal matching contributions. Here's what you need to know and how to prepare.
When Should You File an Amended Tax Return?
Filing an amended tax return can be crucial when you discover mistakes or changes in your financial situation after submitting your taxes. This guide will help you understand when and how to file one effectively.
Comprehensive Guide to FBAR Filing Requirements for US Expats
Navigating the FBAR filing requirements can be overwhelming for US expats. This guide breaks down essential information and practical steps to ensure compliance.
The IRS 'Dirty Dozen': 12 Tax Scams to Watch Out for This Filing Season
The IRS has released its annual 'Dirty Dozen' list of the most dangerous tax scams targeting taxpayers, businesses, and tax professionals in 2026. From AI-powered phone impersonators to viral social media tax hacks, here's what you need to know to protect yourself before the April 15 deadline.
FBAR Filing Requirements for US Expats: What You Need to Know
As a US expat, understanding FBAR filing requirements is crucial to avoid penalties. This guide outlines who needs to file, when to file, and actionable advice for compliance.
Your Website, Email & Digital Marketing: What's Actually Tax Deductible?
Those monthly software subscriptions and digital tool renewals might feel like a drain on your business — but many of them unlock valuable tax deductions. Here's how to make sure you're not leaving money on the table.
The New US Remittance Tax: What It Is, Who It Affects, and How to Avoid It
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act imposes a new 1% excise tax on certain international money transfers from the US, effective January 1, 2026. Here's everything you need to know — including the critical exemptions that let most senders avoid the tax entirely.
How to Get Out of Paying a Hotel Resort Fee — It Can Be Done
Resort fees are banned in most countries outside the US — but American travelers are still getting hit with $20–$50 per night in surprise surcharges. Here's exactly how to dispute them, recover your money, and know your rights.
Understanding FBAR: Who Must File and What Penalties Apply
If you have foreign bank accounts, you may be required to file an FBAR. Learn the rules, thresholds, and severe penalties for non-compliance.
The One Big Beautiful Bill: Key Tax Changes for 2025-2026
Congress passed significant tax legislation in 2025. Here's what Americans need to know about new deductions, credits, and changes affecting tips, overtime, and more.
7 Signs Your Business Needs a Fractional CFO
Growing businesses often hit a financial complexity wall. Discover the telltale signs that it's time to bring in fractional CFO expertise — without the full-time cost.
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: The Complete Guide for US Expats
Americans living abroad can exclude up to $126,500 (2024) of foreign earned income from US tax. Here's how to qualify and claim this valuable exclusion.
Bookkeeping Best Practices for Small Business Success
Clean books are the foundation of every successful business. Here are the bookkeeping practices that separate thriving businesses from struggling ones.
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