This publication outlines the new rules beginning in 2008 that you will use to determine when you can claim an exemption for a dependent.  Exemptions can be claimed as a "qualifying child" or a "qualifying relative". 

(Note: This publication is not intended to be construed as legal advice and you should contact you tax professional for assistance.)

Effective September 1, 2006, the Blue Cross of California (BCCA) network will replace the Interplan and Private Health Care Systems networks.  How does this affect you? This change will provide a wider provider network, thus more in-network possibilities and the increased frequency of in-network discounts.

Overuse of emergency rooms (ERs) is one of the top cost drivers in health care today.  According to a December 2005 report by the California Hospital Association, “Every three and one half seconds in California someone is brought to an emergency room.  That’s over 30,000 people every day seeking emergency care at community hospitals.”

The holidays are here and it’s usually a time of celebration but for some, it may be a time of self-evaluation, reflection on the past and even anxiety about the upcoming year. Sometimes, we feel the stress that accompanies the holidays and our eating habits may have an effect on our job performance.

Truth or myth: You need 8 hours every night? Stay up and read this tonight (you’ll thank us in the morning!)

Is bottled water better than tap? Prepare to be shocked. Bottled water - already a more than $10 billion industry - is the fastest-growing beverage category in the U.S. But is it good for you? Here's the pure truth.

The Internal Revenue Service today announced an increase in the optional standard mileage rates for the final six months of 2011. Taxpayers may use the optional standard rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business and other purposes.

Signed into law Friday, the 2010 Tax Relief Act extends the current $230 monthly limit for pretax transit benefits through 2011.

Like you, we are awaiting developments on Capitol Hill regarding the transit and parking pre-tax funding maximums for 2011. You may recall that the February 2009 "stimulus" bill equalized the limits for parking and transit to $230 per month. However, under that same legislation, this is also scheduled to expire at the end of 2010.

Effective immediately, employers are required to provide a reasonable space and time for nursing mothers for one year after their child’s birth. This space must be an enclosed location, other than a restroom, and protected from intrusion of the public and coworkers.

Great News!! Today, the IRS released Notice 2008-104, which delays the need for all pharmacies and drug stores to implement an Inventory Information Approval System (IIAS) or certify that 90% of their gross receipts were derived from the purchase of eligible medical expenses in order for payment cards to be used at their locations.