The Question I Couldn’t Answer

by Robert T. Edwards

The other day, I met up with a former client I hadn’t seen in a few years. We were catching up over lunch, talking about life, his dental practice, and his wife’s growing business. It was one of those easy conversations until he asked me something that genuinely caught me off guard.

He asked, “What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in your business right now?”

I was stopped in my tracks.

Not because I didn’t have a hundred things running through my head. Like most business owners, there is always something to work on. But when I tried to put my finger on one real challenge, I came up blank.

For most CPA firms, the typical answers come quickly: recruiting and retaining talent, finding new clients, keeping people engaged. But here’s the honest truth: we’re in a good place.

We’ve got a waiting list of people who want to join our team. We had more prospective client calls last year than the previous two years combined. Our team is steady, smart, and strong. In fact, when someone asked me recently how tax season went, I said I wasn’t sure. The team runs it so well, they don’t need me involved (unless someone needs to make a tough call to a client who owes six figures).

I couldn’t answer my friend’s question because our team, now led by Lynn and supported by so many talented, committed people, has built something really special here. We’ve worked hard to create a place where people want to be, clients and employees alike. That doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges. There always are. But right now, I’m grateful for the people around me and the culture we’ve created together.

Sometimes, not having an answer is the best kind of answer.

Don’t Get Duped: What Dental Practice Owners Need to Know About Ponzi Schemes in a Recession

As economic uncertainty continues to rise, with recession odds climbing and new tariffs creating added instability, one unfortunate trend is sure to follow: a surge in financial fraud. Specifically, Ponzi schemes – deceptive investment scams that thrive during boom times and unravel when the economy tightens – are more likely to collapse during a downturn.

Why Ponzi Schemes Resurface During Recessions

Ponzi schemes rely on a steady stream of new investor money to pay returns to earlier investors. When times are good and optimism is high, they can go undetected for years. But when markets tighten and investors want to withdraw their funds, the façade crumbles. This was the case during the 2008 financial crisis, the early COVID-19 pandemic, and now, potentially again as we face new economic headwinds.

In fact, according to Ponzitracker, 66 Ponzi schemes were uncovered in 2023 alone, involving nearly $2 billion in potential losses. And that’s just what’s been caught. Many more fly under the radar, until the music stops.

Even Smart People Fall for It

You might assume that Ponzi victims are uninformed or careless, but that’s often not the case. Many are savvy professionals, including doctors, dentists, and small business owners, who get caught up in the promise of high, consistent returns. After all, who wouldn’t want an investment that claims to beat market volatility, pays out reliably, and comes from a “trusted” advisor?

Bernie Madoff’s infamous scheme is a perfect example. Among his victims were experienced investors, celebrities, and financial experts. Trust and reputation often play a big role in these scams, and con artists are experts at building both.

Red Flags to Watch For

As a dental practice owner or manager, you’re likely focused on growing your practice and planning for your future. That’s exactly why fraudsters target professionals like you, busy individuals with discretionary income looking for “smart” ways to invest.

Here are key red flags to help you spot a Ponzi scheme before it costs you:

  • Returns that are too good to be true. If the investment offers consistent, above-average returns regardless of market conditions, be skeptical.
  • Lack of transparency. If it’s unclear how the investment works or where the money comes from, that’s a major warning sign.
  • Pressure to reinvest. Being encouraged to “roll over” returns or keep funds in the program longer is a common tactic.
  • Limited access to your money. Delays or restrictions when you try to withdraw funds often signal trouble.
  • Unregistered sellers or products. Always verify that both the investment advisor and the investment itself are registered with the SEC or FINRA.

What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed

The IRS does offer some relief for those who suffer financial losses in fraudulent investment schemes. Under specific guidelines, you may be able to deduct the losses – including previously reinvested earnings – under certain conditions. And if you aren’t seeking any recovery, the IRS may allow a deduction of up to 95% of your loss using a safe harbor method.

However, this process can be complex. If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a Ponzi scheme, talk to your accountant or advisor right away to explore your recovery and reporting options.

Stay Focused and Stay Cautious

While investing is an important part of securing your financial future beyond the dental chair, it’s critical to proceed with caution, especially in times of economic uncertainty. The best protection against a Ponzi scheme is awareness. Before handing over your hard-earned money, ask the right questions, verify credentials, and never invest in something you don’t fully understand.

Need a second opinion on an investment that seems a little too perfect, or better yet, help investing for the future? We’re here to help. Reach out to our team for trusted financial guidance tailored to dental professionals.

Podcast Recap: Investing Beyond Your Practice – Building Wealth and Freedom for Dental Professionals

In the latest episode of Beyond Bitewings, the team at Edwards & Associates dives into a critical topic for dental practice owners: investing beyond your practice to build long-term wealth and financial freedom. Host Ash is joined by investment experts Paul Montelongo, Eric Miller, and Nathan Turner, who share a range of strategies designed to help dentists grow their income streams and secure their financial future.

Building Wealth Outside the Practice

While your dental practice is a powerful income generator, it shouldn’t be your only source of wealth. As the episode highlights, real financial freedom comes from creating multiple income streams, ones that can eventually support you when you step away from day-to-day operations.

The key takeaway? Start early and think of your household as your “parent company.” Just as large corporations build a structure of profitable subsidiaries, your practice and investments should support the financial health of your family unit.

Alternative Investment Options

The episode introduces several compelling investment strategies:

  • Multifamily Syndications
    Paul Montelongo explains how these investments typically involve 5-year business plans, but many properties are sold within 33 months based on market readiness. Investors, or limited partners (LPs), enjoy passive income and ownership without day-to-day involvement. Distributions are made quarterly, with clearly defined rates of return.
  • Note Investing
    Nathan Turner discusses buying residential mortgage notes, essentially becoming the lender without owning the property. These offer stable returns (8% fixed in some cases), quarterly distributions, and the potential for asset control with less operational risk. Turner highlights the importance of understanding property value, clean title, and lien positioning before purchasing.
  • Traditional and Diversified Portfolios
    Eric Miller outlines a well-rounded investment strategy, which includes:
    • Stocks and bonds (especially dividend-paying or municipal bonds)
    • Real estate holdings (individually or via syndicates)
    • Insurance-based products (such as annuities or cash value life insurance)

He emphasizes that a diversified portfolio can provide tax benefits, predictable returns, and long-term security.

Pay Yourself First, But With Purpose

One of the most important themes discussed is the idea that many practice owners underpay themselves. Miller recommends allocating 10% of your practice revenue to yourself, not for spending, but for investing. This helps create new income streams that can support your family long after you stop practicing.

Many dentists underestimate how much revenue they truly need to cover operational and personal financial goals. By reworking your budget and investing strategically, you can eliminate cash flow stress and build meaningful reserves.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to investing or looking to diversify beyond the stock market, this episode offers practical insights tailored to dental professionals. The experts reinforce that smart investing isn’t about chasing the next big thing, it’s about building consistent, long-term growth that supports your goals both inside and outside your practice.

Ready to put your money to work? Start thinking beyond the chair and into a future where your financial health is just as strong as your clinical expertise.

What Dental Practice Owners Need to Know About New Federal Payment Changes

Big changes are coming to how the federal government issues payments, and dental practice owners need to be prepared. The White House has announced it will eliminate paper checks for nearly all government payments by September 30, 2025, so the U.S. Treasury has approximately six months to make the necessary adjustments. If you or your practice currently receive any federal payments by check, including tax refunds, Medicare reimbursements, or other government-related funds, it’s time to get ready for a full transition to electronic payments.

Why the Change?

The move to eliminate paper checks is part of a broader effort to improve efficiency, reduce fraud, and save taxpayer dollars. Electronic payments are faster, more secure, and more cost-effective than mailing paper checks. The Treasury estimates that moving to digital payments could save hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

How It Could Affect Dental Practice Owners

If your practice is owed a federal refund or receives any kind of government reimbursement, the payment will now be issued via direct deposit or a similar electronic method. That means:

  • No more waiting on the mail. Payments will arrive more quickly.
  • Reduced risk of lost or stolen checks. Electronic transfers are generally safer.
  • Streamlined bookkeeping. Digital payments are easier to track and reconcile.

For dental practices that rely on timely cash flow to cover payroll, supplies, or operating costs, faster access to funds can make a significant difference.

What You Should Do Now

If you haven’t already made the switch, now’s the time to update your payment preferences:

  • Set up direct deposit for IRS payments. Make sure your practice provides its correct banking information each time you file a return so you can receive any IRS refunds electronically. 
  • Check Medicare provider information. If you participate in Medicare, confirm your electronic payment enrollment is up to date.
  • Talk to your vendors. Many private insurers and suppliers are also pushing for digital payments. Updating your systems now will set you up for a smoother future.
  • Review your accounting systems. Ensure your bookkeeping processes are ready to handle incoming electronic payments efficiently.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

If you don’t update your information, you could experience delays in receiving payments. In some cases, the government may issue payments via a prepaid debit card if no direct deposit information is available, which could add cost and complications to your accounting and cash management processes. Additionally, prepaid debit cards pose increased risk due to loss, misuse, or internal theft.

How We Can Help

At Edwards & Associates, we specialize in helping dental practice owners navigate financial changes like this one. If you need assistance updating your information with the IRS or Medicare, reconciling digital payments, or ensuring your cash flow remains strong during the transition, we’re here to help.

Don’t Fall for It: How Dental Practice Owners Can Protect Themselves from Common IRS Scams

Dental practices are constantly juggling patients, employees, insurance claims, and the day-to-day operations. The last thing you need is to get caught in a scam, especially one that claims to come from the IRS.

Unfortunately, IRS scams are more common (and more convincing) than ever. Scammers know that small business owners are prime targets, and dental practice owners and managers are no exception. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your team, and your practice.

Common IRS Scam Tactics

Scammers often impersonate the IRS through:

  • Emails (“phishing”) that look official but contain malicious links or attachments.
  • Phone calls claiming you owe taxes and demanding immediate payment.
  • Text messages directing you to fake IRS websites.
  • Mail that looks real but asks for unusual information or directs you to a fake phone number.

Important: The IRS will never initiate contact with you via email, text message, or social media to ask for personal or financial information. They primarily communicate through official mail.

How to Recognize an IRS Scam

Be on the lookout for these red flags:

  • Urgency or threats. Scammers often pressure you to act immediately by threatening arrest, license suspension, or lawsuit.
  • Requests for unusual payment methods. The IRS does not accept gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers for tax payments.
  • Unfamiliar sender or strange-looking links. Hover over links before clicking, if the web address looks suspicious or doesn’t end in “.gov,” don’t click.
  • Spelling or grammatical mistakes. Official IRS communications are professional and carefully worded.

Here is an image of a specific scam email. On the surface, it looks legitimate. But you’ll notice a few things that are off on closer examination. First, it is an email, which is not how the IRS typically communicates. Secondly, the IRS is not likely to refer to you as a ‘valued customer.’ Third, there is some urgency to the message, and it is asking you to click on an unidentified link.

What to Do if You Receive a Suspicious Email or Call

  • Don’t click on any links or open attachments.
  • Don’t provide any personal information, not your Social Security number, bank details, or even your name.
  • Hang up immediately if it’s a call.
  • Report the scam. Forward phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov. You can also report scam calls to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration  (TIGTA) at tigta.gov.

What If You Accidentally Clicked or Responded?

If you clicked a suspicious link or provided information:

  • Immediately run a virus scan on your computer.
  • Contact your IT provider to check for any breaches.
  • Monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for unusual activity.
  • Report identity theft to the IRS at identitytheft.gov and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

It’s also a good idea to reach out to us if you shared any tax-related information. We can guide you on the next steps to help limit potential damage.

Protecting Your Practice Starts with Awareness

When in doubt, always double-check. Contact the IRS directly using the information on irs.gov, not a phone number or link provided in a suspicious message. And if you have questions about anything that feels ‘off,’ we’re here to help.

Your financial health is just as important as your patients’ dental health. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and don’t let scammers take a bite out of your business!

Preparing Your Dental Practice for Potential Tariff Uncertainty

As the political landscape shifts, many dental practice owners are wondering how potential tariff changes under a new administration might affect their businesses. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what future trade policies will look like, there are smart steps you can take now to prepare without getting caught up in unnecessary worry.

What Could Be Impacted?

Dental practices rely on a range of supplies and equipment that are often manufactured overseas, including:

  • Dental chairs, imaging equipment, and sterilization machines
  • Handpieces and other specialty tools
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and masks
  • Lab materials, including crowns and implants

If tariffs are placed on goods from certain countries, costs for these items could rise. However, much remains uncertain, and even if tariffs are introduced, they could take time to phase in, giving practices an opportunity to adjust.

Don’t Forget Company Vehicles

Another area that could be impacted by tariffs is company vehicles. If your practice owns or leases vehicles for business purposes, potential tariffs on imported automobiles and parts could drive up costs.

Even vehicles manufactured in the U.S. often rely on parts sourced globally. This means:

  • The cost of new vehicle purchases or leases could increase.
  • Repairs and maintenance expenses could rise if imported parts become more expensive.
  • Lead times for service or new vehicle availability could be affected if supply chains are disrupted.

If you anticipate needing to replace or add a business vehicle in the next year or two, it may be worth evaluating your options sooner rather than later. 

What Can Dental Practices Do Now?

  • Review Vendor Relationships: Now is a good time to review where your equipment and supplies are sourced. Talk to your suppliers about contingency plans or alternative options should tariffs impact certain products.
  • Maintain Healthy Inventory Levels: If you rely heavily on imported supplies, consider modestly increasing your inventory on key items to hedge against short-term price increases.
  • Budget with Flexibility: Build some extra flexibility into your supply and equipment budgets for 2025 and 2026. Having a little financial cushion can help absorb any potential price fluctuations.
  • Stay Informed, Not Alarmed: Rely on reputable, non-partisan sources to track policy changes. Professional organizations like the ADA and your trusted advisors (including us!) will help break down what changes could mean specifically for dental practices.
  • Focus on What You Can Control: Operational efficiency, strong vendor partnerships, and proactive financial planning will serve you well regardless of the broader economic environment.

While the headlines may feel overwhelming at times, dental practices are resilient. With some thoughtful planning, you can navigate potential changes smoothly and continue delivering outstanding care to your patients.

If you’d like to discuss ways to strengthen your practice’s financial resilience, our team is here to help.

Podcast Recap: Marketing Mastery for Dentists – Building an Authentic Brand and Growing Your Practice

Attracting and retaining the right patients is one of the biggest challenges dental practice owners face after opening their doors. With new offices popping up on every corner and the rapid evolution of social media and digital marketing, standing out has never been harder – or more important.

In a recent episode of Beyond Bitewings, Edwards & Associates compiled expert advice from Darren Tessitore (CEO of Thrive Reviews), Erin Gregor (founder of Pod Growth), and Brandon Hubbard (founder of Pain-Free Dental Marketing) to share practical strategies for growing your dental practice through smarter marketing. 

Content First, Social Media Second

One major takeaway: start with your content, the educational material you create for patients, before worrying about where to post it. Think about the most common questions you get from patients, such as “Why do I need a cleaning every six months?” or “Should I be worried about fluoride?” and create content around those topics. Your social media platforms, in turn, serve as the ‘wheels’ to get that content in front of new audiences. Make sure your posts reflect what makes your practice unique.

Focus Your Efforts on the Right Platforms

Instead of trying to be everywhere at once, focus on one or two social media platforms where your ideal patients are likely to be. Secure your business name on all platforms, but put your energy into consistent, authentic posting where it matters most. Whether it’s short videos on Instagram or patient testimonials on Facebook, quality beats quantity.

How Much Time Should You Spend?

Expect to spend about an hour a day managing your online presence, and use it for planning content, creating posts, interacting with followers, and encouraging reviews. If that feels overwhelming, consider assigning a team member to help or hiring outside support.

Marketing Budget Guidelines

Wondering how much you should be spending? Experts recommend dedicating 3%-5% of your collections to marketing, including website management, review platforms, SEO efforts, advertising, and content creation. More important than the exact figure, though, is making sure you’re getting real results: attracting new patients and building a strong, visible brand.

Content is (Still) King

Paid ads still have their place, but today’s marketing success is driven by content: patient testimonials, before-and-after photos, and posts that demonstrate your team’s expertise and care. Patients want to truly connect with you, not just see a $39 cleaning special.

Don’t Ignore Your Google Business Profile

Many practices focus solely on their websites, but the first thing prospective patients usually see is your Google Business Profile. Optimizing it with updated information, fresh photos, current reviews, and proper keywords is critical to showing up in the coveted Google ‘Three Pack’ (those top three listings in local search results).

Pro Tip: Reviews Matter – A Lot

Encouraging consistent reviews – ideally more than your nearest competitors – boosts your online reputation and helps you rank higher in local searches. Make asking for reviews part of your checkout process and consider incentivizing staff to help.

Boost Your Dental Practice’s Growth

Marketing today is about meaningful connections, not just catchy ads. By focusing on authentic content, smart spending, and optimizing your online presence, you can stand out in even the most crowded markets.

For more insights like these, be sure to subscribe to Beyond Bitewings and follow Edwards & Associates for strategies to help your practice thrive!

BOI Filing for Dental Practice Owners: Our Attempt to Make Messy Timeline More Clear

If you’ve been trying to keep up with the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirement, you’re not alone in feeling like it’s turned into a legal ping-pong match. Created to crack down on financial crimes, this new rule has become confusing, controversial, and as of now, unenforceable.

Here’s what dental practice owners need to know and what to do (or not do) next.

BOI Requirements: The Timeline That Just Won’t Quit

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) was passed in 2021, and it included new reporting requirements for small businesses, including most dental practices. But since then? It’s been chaos. Here’s a blow-by-blow:

  • January 1, 2024 – BOI reporting officially takes effect. New companies must file within 90 days of formation, and existing companies had to file by January 1, 2025.
  • December 3, 2024 – A Texas court issues a preliminary injunction, halting BOI enforcement nationwide and raising constitutional concerns.
  • December 5, 2024 – The federal government appeals the injunction, attempting to reinstate the rule.
  • December 23, 2024 – The Fifth Circuit Court briefly lifts the injunction, reinstating the January 1 deadline. FinCEN (the Treasury’s enforcement arm) responds by extending the filing deadline to January 13, 2025.
  • December 26, 2024 – The appeals court changes its mind again and reimposes the injunction, stopping enforcement once more. Oral arguments are scheduled for March 25, 2025.
  • January 4, 2025 – The Department of Justice files an emergency motion with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking it to lift the injunction and allow enforcement to resume. We now await the Court’s decision.
  • March 1, 2025 – A separate federal court rules the Corporate Transparency Act unconstitutional in National Small Business United v. Yellen. FinCEN announces it will not enforce BOI reporting against the plaintiffs in that case but keeps requirements in place for everyone else.
  • March 25, 2025 – IRS issues a memorandum clarifying that, due to legal uncertainty, BOI enforcement is paused pending further resolution. 

So, What Does This Mean for Dental Practice Owners?

The short version: You don’t have to file right now.

If you’ve already filed? No harm done, just sit tight.

If you haven’t? That’s fine too. The rule still exists on paper, but it’s tangled in legal challenges and is not being enforced at the moment.

But Will I Have to File Later?

Possibly. The Supreme Court could lift the injunction, or Congress could revise the law. But for now:

  • There are no penalties for not filing.
  • FinCEN cannot enforce the rule due to the ongoing legal battles.
  • Filing is on pause, not eliminated.

What Should You Do Right Now?

  • Don’t panic. No action is required at the moment.
  • Stay informed. This could change with little notice, and we will do our best to keep you informed.
  • Keep records ready. If enforcement resumes, filings may need to happen quickly.

Final Thought

We wish this were clearer, but welcome to regulatory whiplash. BOI reporting is either something you don’t have to do – or something you’ll need to do soon, once the courts make up their minds.

We’re watching this closely, and as soon as there’s a final answer, you’ll be the first to know.

Have questions about your practice structure or potential filing obligations? Reach out. We’re here to help you stay out of trouble and focused on your patients, not paperwork.

Podcast Recap: Tax Season Survival Guide – Expert Tips from a Tax Manager

Tax season can be overwhelming for dental professionals juggling practice management, patient care, and financial planning. But with the right strategies in place, you can avoid common pitfalls, reduce stress, and keep more of what you earn. In this episode of Beyond Bitewings, Edwards & Associates’ Tax Manager, Lorraine Kent, shares her best tax season survival tips, covering everything from deductions to tax planning strategies.

What’s Deductible (and What’s Not)?

One of the most frequently asked questions during tax season is, “What can I deduct?” While deductions can reduce taxable income, not everything qualifies.

For example, if you own rental property, expenses become deductible once the property is listed for rent – not before. Mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, and routine maintenance are deductible, but major improvements must be capitalized and depreciated over time.

For dentists, business deductions include necessary expenses like equipment purchases, supplies, and professional development costs. However, personal expenses, like that daily coffee run, aren’t deductible just because you own a business. If you’re unsure, consult with your CPA before claiming a deduction.

Depreciation and Tax Planning for Asset Sales

Many dental professionals invest in real estate as a wealth-building strategy. However, Lorraine warns that depreciation can create tax liabilities when you sell an asset. Depreciation recapture means you could owe ordinary income tax on the portion of the gain attributed to depreciation deductions.

To minimize this impact, tax planning is essential. Strategies like timing asset sales, offsetting gains with losses, or utilizing a 1031 exchange can help reduce your tax burden. Before selling a rental property or dental equipment, talk to your accountant to ensure you understand the tax implications.

Avoiding Common Tax Filing Mistakes

The IRS uses electronic matching to compare reported income against W-2s, 1099s, and other tax documents. If something doesn’t match, expect a notice. One of the biggest mistakes taxpayers make is forgetting to report investment income.

For example, if you had a brokerage account that was closed mid-year, you still need to report income or gains from that account. Missing even one 1099 can lead to unnecessary penalties and interest.

Lorraine’s advice? Keep track of all tax documents, check for missing forms before filing, and review prior-year returns to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Tax Strategies for Smarter Planning

Tax planning isn’t just about what happened last year; it’s about looking ahead. Loss harvesting is one strategy that can help reduce taxable gains. If you have stocks with unrealized losses, selling them strategically can offset taxable gains from other investments, including real estate sales.

However, be mindful of the wash sale rule, which disallows a deduction if you repurchase the same stock within 30 days. Proper tax planning allows you to maximize benefits while staying compliant.

Red Flags That Can Trigger IRS Scrutiny

Certain deductions attract more attention than others. Lorraine highlights three areas where taxpayers often make mistakes:

  • Meals & Entertainment: Business meals must involve a client or work-related discussion to qualify. That solo coffee run? Not deductible.
  • Travel: Deducting a vacation as a ‘business trip’ without clear business purposes can raise red flags.
  • Auto Expenses: Claiming 100% business use of a personal vehicle is rarely justifiable unless you have multiple business locations.

Proper documentation is key. Keep detailed records and receipts to support deductions if audited.

Texas Business Property Tax: What Dentists Need to Know

For Texas dentists, business property tax (BPP) is an additional annual tax assessed by the county. This tax applies to tangible assets like dental equipment and furniture. If you’re a new practice owner, expect to pay BPP based on the initial purchase price of your equipment. However, over time, you may be able to adjust valuations to reflect depreciation.

If you receive a BPP notice, don’t ignore it. Review it with your CPA to ensure accuracy and identify opportunities to lower your assessment.

Final Thoughts: Communication Is Key

The biggest tax mistakes often stem from a lack of communication. Major financial decisions like buying new equipment, selling property, setting up a trust, can all have tax implications. Yet, CPAs aren’t mind readers.

Before making big moves, check with your accountant. A quick conversation can help you avoid unnecessary tax bills and set you up for long-term financial success.

Want more expert insights? Subscribe to Beyond Bitewings and stay ahead of the game this tax season! For personalized tax guidance, contact the Edwards & Associates team today.

​Busting Common Tax Myths for Dentists

Taxes can be confusing, especially when so much misinformation is floating around online. Whether you’re scrolling through social media, chatting with colleagues, or just assuming something sounds right, it’s easy to fall for common tax myths – some of which could leave you with a hefty bill from the IRS.

As a dental professional, understanding tax laws is crucial to protecting your practice’s bottom line. From home office deductions to retirement withdrawals, we’re breaking down some of the biggest tax myths that could trip you up. Here, we separate fact from fiction and make sure you’re not caught off guard.

Myth #1: Retirement money is tax-free.

Many people assume that once they retire, their money is theirs to spend tax-free. Unfortunately, that’s not the case – most withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are taxed as ordinary income. If you take out too much in a single year, you could even push yourself into a higher tax bracket. The only exception? Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s,which allow for tax-free withdrawals after age 59½, as long as the account has been open for at least five years.

Myth #2: Reporting dental supplies and lab fees under Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) reduces audit risk.

It’s a common misconception that classifying dental supplies and lab fees as COGS can lower the chances of an audit by reducing gross profit. However, misclassifying expenses can raise red flags with the IRS and lead to potential issues. ​ 

Myth #3: Large equipment purchases should be deferred until the fourth quarter for maximum tax benefits.

Many dental professionals believe that postponing significant equipment investments until year end maximizes tax deductions. In reality, the timing of such purchases should align with the practice’s operational needs rather than solely focusing on tax implications. 

Myth #4: Home office deductions are a red flag for audits.

There’s a lingering belief that claiming a home office deduction increases the likelihood of an audit. While this was a concern in the past, legitimate home office deductions, when properly documented, are acceptable and do not inherently trigger audits. However, keep in mind that you can only claim a home office deduction if you own a business. If you are an employee, this deduction is no longer available. 

Myth #5: Personal dental expenses are fully deductible.

Some assume that all personal dental expenses can be deducted from their taxes. However, only unreimbursed medical and dental expenses exceeding a certain percentage of adjusted gross income (AGI) are deductible. It’s crucial to understand these thresholds to avoid disallowed deductions. ​ 

Myth #6: Income from side gigs or online sales isn’t taxable.

Some people mistakenly believe that earnings from side jobs, freelance work, or online sales are tax-free. In reality, all income, regardless of the source, must be reported and is subject to taxation. Overlooking this can lead to underreporting and potential penalties. ​

Myth #7: Selling a dental practice is tax-free if reinvested.

Some dentists believe that proceeds from selling their practice are tax-free if reinvested into another venture. However, such sales are typically subject to capital gains tax, and proper planning is essential to manage the tax implications effectively. 

Myth #8: Casual labor payments don’t require tax reporting.

There’s a misconception that payments to temporary or casual workers don’t need to be reported. However, businesses are required to report payments to all workers on a Form 1099 if they total more than $600. ​

Myth #9: Government benefits like social security and unemployment are tax-free.

Many believe that Social Security and unemployment benefits come tax-free, but that’s not entirely true. Unemployment benefits are taxed at your normal income tax rate at the federal level and in most states, meaning you could owe taxes when filing if you don’t have them withheld upfront. Social Security benefits are taxed based on your total income – if you earn above a certain threshold from other sources (like retirement savings or part-time work), up to 85% of your benefits could be subject to income tax.

Tax laws are intricate and continually evolving. We can help ensure compliance and optimize you tax position, so reach out to us today for help. Relying on myths or outdated information can lead to unintended tax liabilities.​

Podcast Recap: Why Every Dentist Needs to Know Their Practice’s BAM

As a dental practice owner, you likely track production per hour, hygiene department performance, and claim filings – but are you paying attention to BAM? If not, you could be missing a crucial financial metric that helps ensure your practice stays profitable and supports your lifestyle goals.

In a recent episode of Beyond Bitewings, the team at Edwards & Associates, PC broke down BAM (Basic Amount of Money) and discussed what it is, why it matters, and how to calculate it accurately.

What Is BAM?

BAM stands for the Basic Amount of Money needed to operate your practice successfully. However, it’s not just a break-even number – it includes:

  • Overhead costs (rent, salaries, supplies, etc.)
  • Loan payments for practice purchases, equipment, or expansions
  • Owner compensation (including taxes and personal financial goals)
  • Profit to keep the business healthy

Think of BAM as a financial goal – the amount your practice needs to collect (not just produce) each month to cover all expenses while maintaining the income and lifestyle you want.

Why BAM Matters

Understanding BAM is essential for cash flow management and ensuring your practice is set up for success. It also plays a key role in staff bonus structures – since any revenue collected beyond BAM can often be used to reward the team.

Additionally, BAM isn’t just based on historical numbers. It should factor in expected expenses such as new hires, equipment purchases, and rent increases to give you an accurate picture of future financial needs.

How to Calculate BAM

To determine your BAM, you’ll need to account for:

  • All fixed expenses: Rent, payroll, utilities, supplies, insurance, and other overhead.
  • Debt payments: Loan repayments that aren’t reflected in your profit & loss statement.
  • Owner compensation & taxes: The amount you need to take home after covering all practice costs.
  • Future growth: Planned hires, equipment purchases, or operational changes.

BAM should be reviewed and updated annually to reflect any major financial changes, though adjustments – such as a gradual BAM increase (Baby BAM) – may be made in cases of significant shifts like hiring an associate or expanding operations.

The Difference Between BAM and Net Income

A common mistake is assuming that net income (the bottom-line figure on financial statements) reflects the actual cash needed to run a practice. However, BAM factors in non-cash expenses (like depreciation and amortization) and full loan payments, giving a clearer picture of financial needs.

Plan Ahead for Success

By understanding and tracking BAM, you’ll have a clearer financial goal for your practice and avoid surprises when it comes to cash flow. Whether you’re planning for growth, refining your bonus structure, or simply ensuring financial stability, BAM is a must-know metric for every dental practice owner.

Want to learn more? Listen to the full episode of Beyond Bitewings for expert insights and practical strategies!