Happy New Year from Beachside Bookkeeping & Tax!
Updated: Aug 21
Joel here. I wish you and your family a healthy and prosperous New Year.
As we kick off 2026, it’s a great time to get organized for tax season. Let’s ensure your bookkeeping is set up to support your goals all year long.
I’m excited for the new tax season and ready to help you file your taxes. To get started, please reach out and let me know you’d like to work together this season.
Joel Barton, EA, MST
Owner, Accountant, & Tax Specialist
What’s New For 2026
Personal Tax Highlights
As we enter 2026, there are several important updates to be aware of:
Standard Deduction Amounts: These are helpful for planning and comparing itemized versus standard deductions.
Business Tax and Small Business Compliance Highlights
Section 179 Expensing: Higher base limits and phaseout thresholds are reflected in IRS guidance. This is essential for equipment and vehicle purchases. (IRS)
Qualified Business Income (QBI / Section 199A): IRS guidance reflects changes, including a minimum deduction concept and minimum QBI threshold for eligibility beginning after 12/31/2025. This is necessary for many pass-through businesses. (IRS)
Trade/Business Payment Reporting Threshold: IRS guidance discusses an increased base threshold for reporting certain payments made after 12/31/2025. (IRS)
Pro Tip
Do a quick January tax checkup. Run a simple 2026 projection and then update your W-4 (employees) or estimated payments (self-employed). This ensures the new standard deduction and brackets are reflected in your cash flow all year, not just at filing time. For business owners, this is also a great time to refresh W-9s and clean up your vendor list since the 1099 reporting baseline changes for payments made after 12/31/2025.
PRO TIPDo a quick January tax checkup—run a simple 2026 projection and then update your W-4 (employees) or estimated payments (self-employed) so the new standard deduction/brackets are reflected in your cash flow all year (not just at filing time). For business owners, this is also a great time to refresh W-9s and clean up your vendor list since the 1099 reporting baseline changes for payments made after 12/31/2025. |
Tax Prep Made Easier
Individual Checklist
If you want a smoother filing experience this year, start gathering paperwork now:
Income Documents
W-2s, 1099s (NEC, INT, DIV, K, etc.), SSA-1099, unemployment statements (if applicable)
K-1s (partnerships, S-corporations, trusts) if applicable
Common deductions and credits
Mortgage interest and property tax statements
Charitable contributions receipts
Childcare expenses and related tax forms (if applicable)
Health insurance forms and medical expense records (if itemizing)
Life Changes That Matter
Have you moved, changed jobs, bought or sold a home, gotten married or divorced, had a baby, or started a side business? These changes can impact your tax situation.
Pro Tip
If you’re unsure whether something matters, save it anyway. We’d rather quickly confirm it’s not needed than miss a deduction.
PRO TIPIf you’re unsure whether something matters, save it anyway. We’d rather quickly confirm it’s not needed than miss a deduction. |
Bookkeeping Tips for a Cleaner 2026
Good bookkeeping isn’t just “nice to have.” It makes taxes easier, protects you in an audit, and helps you make better decisions.
Four Habits That Make the Biggest Difference
Reconcile monthly (bank and credit cards).
Don’t let it pile up.
Separate business and personal spending (use separate accounts and cards to reduce headaches).
Track receipts and categorize correctly (meals, supplies, subcontractors, software, mileage, etc.).
Quarterly Rhythm That Keeps You on Track
Review profit/loss and cash flow.
Set aside for estimated taxes if needed.
Check contractor/vendor payments and info for year-end reporting.
Additional Support
If you want support beyond tax filing, we offer ongoing bookkeeping. This keeps your numbers accurate all year—one of the most valuable Ormond Beach financial services options for busy owners who don’t want surprises.
Contact Us today to schedule your tax prep or bookkeeping review.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORTIf you want support beyond tax filing, we offer ongoing bookkeeping so your numbers stay accurate all year—one of the most valuable Ormond Beach financial services options for busy owners who don’t want surprises. CONTACT US |
Florida Fun Facts
Ormond Beach is famous as the “Birthplace of Speed.” In the early 1900s, Ormond’s hard-packed sand became a proving ground for auto pioneers. One highlight was a 1906 land speed record run of 127.659 mph. (Ormond Beach)
Bonus Florida fun fact: Britton Hill is Florida’s highest natural point at 345 feet. This makes it the lowest “highest point” of any U.S. state. (Visit Florida)
Need Help Getting Organized?
If you’d like help with tax preparation, cleanup, or monthly bookkeeping, reach out today. We’ll help you start the year with clarity—and keep it that way.
Call or text us to schedule your tax prep or bookkeeping review at 724-974-6841.
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