By Abe Livchitz, CPA, Senior Tax Manager
ASL Construction Group
In October, 2017, Gov. Brown signed Assembly Bill 1701 modifying the California Labor Code. The bill requires contractors to assume liability for any unpaid wages or fringe benefits owed to employees of their subcontractors. This provision applies to all nonpublic construction contracts entered into on or after January 1, 2018. The new law requires diligent contractors to now monitor the payroll functions of their subcontractors and any subcontractors used by their subcontractors. (more…)
By Deepa Bhat, CPA, Audit Principal
ASL Construction Group
It is not unusual for contractors to go through an entire fiscal year anticipating healthy profits only to end the year in a significant loss position. Here are some tips to identify and correct potential issues before they derail the Company’s financial performance: (more…)
By Abe Livchitz, CPA, Tax Senior Tax Manager
ASL Construction Group
In December, the Republican led Congress enacted the most wide ranging tax reform legislation since 1986. Provisions will impact both personal and business tax liabilities beginning in 2018. The legislation contains changes that can both help and hurt a contractor’s bottom line. Significant provisions include: (more…)
By Abe Livchitz, Senior Tax Manager
ASL Construction Group
Most contractors are very careful to keep a close eye on project costs such as labor and materials. But direct job costs like these are only part of the picture.
It is equally important to have a clear understanding of indirect costs such as rent, utilities, taxes and insurance. These costs must be accurately and consistently allocated among the various projects the company undertakes. (more…)
By Carol Wagner, Principal
ASL Construction Group
Earlier this year, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued its long-awaited revised lease accounting standard. The new standard – Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842)” – could have a significant impact on many contractors that lease vehicles, equipment or buildings. (more…)
By Abe Livchitz, Tax Manager
Contractors are unique clients operating in a specialized industry. They are resourceful, creative, thrive working under pressure of tight deadlines and constantly racing to stay ahead of economic downturns. To honor their uniqueness the tax code allows contractors to use two accounting methods that are distinctive to their business. (more…)
