As November winds down, we’re feeling especially grateful—for our clients, our team, and the work we get to do every day. In this month’s newsletter, we welcome our newest team member Brittney, share a look at Kristine’s impactful Veterans Day classroom visits, and showcase a few Halloween moments from the office. We’re also covering key year-end topics to help you plan ahead, including retirement strategies, business deductions, important wage and classification updates—and yes, even the potential end of the penny. Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving! | | Highlights from the TA Team | | |
Welcome Brittney
Brittney is a dynamic addition to our team, bringing an entrepreneurial spirit, strong people‑skills, and a passion for numbers that aligns perfectly with our firm’s mission of delivering both strategic insight and personal care to clients.
As a dedicated mother to her energetic four‑year‑old son, Brittney knows firsthand the importance of organization, flexibility, and a personal touch—traits she carries into her professional role.
Prior to joining us, Brittney excelled as a retail supervisor, managing staff, overseeing client accounts, and delivering high‑level customer service. She brings that same mindset here: she sees every client interaction, every ledger entry, and every reconciliation as an opportunity to build value, strengthen relationships, and uphold our standards of trust and precision.
In her spare time, Brittney channels her creativity through crafting, drawing, and exploring new outlets of self‑expression. Whether she’s sketching, working on a DIY project, or finding the inspiration in everyday moments, her creative energy adds fresh perspective and enthusiasm to our collaborative environment.
We’re excited to welcome Brittney to our team, and we know that her blend of hands‑on business experience, accounting ambition, and personal warmth will make her a strong ally for our clients and a meaningful contributor to our firm’s culture.
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Christi and Bella brought island vibes as Lilo & Stitch (fitting, right?), while Bella also showed off her spooky side as a clown. It’s hard to make that face look sinister, but she sure gave it a good try!
Brittney’s son Nicholas gave us the goofiest face he could muster as a Minion, and Leslie’s youngest, Brecklynn, nailed her look as Rumi from K-Pops.
| | Kristine the Marine: Teaching the True Cost of Freedom | | |
For the past four years, Kristine—better known as Kristine the Marine—has spent the week leading up to Veterans Day teaching students about the meaning of military service and the sacrifice it demands.
Stepping away from her payroll duties, Kristine visits classrooms from kindergarten through high school, tailoring her message to each age group. Her goal is clear: to help students understand that the freedoms they enjoy come at a price—paid by those who serve.
This year, she spoke to over 100 kindergarteners, using energy, storytelling, and hands-on gear to bring her message to life. One of her most powerful examples is a candy bar: she asks who wants it, who thinks it’s fair that only one person gets it, and what they would do if it were just left out. She explains that freedom is like that candy bar—everyone wants it, not everyone can have it, and our military protects it for us.
With older students, Kristine shares deployment stories and talks candidly about the emotional and physical scars veterans carry. Her honest, heartfelt approach leaves students with more than just an understanding of Veterans Day—it leaves them with respect for the deep sacrifices service members make.
Kristine continues to serve her country—not in uniform, but in classrooms—ensuring the next generation never forgets the cost of their freedom.
If you're a veteran interested in sharing your story, contact your local American Legion or VFW to learn more about the Veterans in the Classroom program.
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Pennies Are Going Away
In early 2026, the U.S. Mint will stop producing pennies, ending more than two centuries of 1-cent coinage. For most Americans, this won’t come as a surprise — inflation and the dominance of digital payments have already made pennies nearly irrelevant. But for businesses that still handle cash, it means adopting a clear rounding policy. Read More
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2026 Missouri and Other States Minimum Wage Increases
Illinois’s minimum wage remains unchanged at $15.00 per hour for now, but Missouri is set to see a significant increase: the state will move to $15.00 per hour effective January 1, 2026. This change follows recent state legislative action and court decisions, and employers in Missouri should prepare now to update payroll systems and budgets.
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Update on Worker vs. Independent Contractor Rules
The IRS released Rev. Proc. 2025-10, updating worker classification rules for the first time in 40 years. Key changes include expanded documentation requirements, clearer definitions, and guidance for dual-status workers. Business owners should review contractor classifications, ensure consistent 1099 filings, and consult their CPA to stay compliant.
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Holiday Gifts That Offer Tax Benefits for You and Your Loved Ones
The holiday season is a time of giving, and while the joy of gifting is often its own reward, there are ways to make your generosity even more impactful through strategic tax planning. By understanding the tax implications of certain gifts, you can maximize the benefits for both the giver and the recipient. This article explores various holiday gifts that come with tax advantages, including educational gifts, gifts to spouses, employee gifts, and contributions to retirement accounts. Read More
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12 Tips to Finish the Year Strong
We’re at that time of the year when it feels like we’re racing against time. With the holidays quickly approaching and the desire to end the year on a high note, it’s important to stay proactive and look ahead. So, if you’re looking to tie up loose ends or set your business up for an even better next year, here’s a quick guide to help you finish this year strong.
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A Guide to the Business Pass-Through Deduction
The Section 199A deduction allows eligible business owners to deduct up to 20% of qualified business income. It applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, S corporations, and certain trusts. Recent updates under the OBBBA expanded its benefits and made it permanent.
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Maximize Your Retirement before Year End
As retirement approaches, many older Americans seek strategies to maximize their savings and ensure financial stability. One of the most effective yet often overlooked tools is the “catch-up contribution.” Catch-up provisions allow workers nearing retirement age to make additional contributions beyond standard limits, helping to close savings gaps and build stronger financial security.
This article outlines the 2025 contribution and catch-up rules for several major retirement plans — including SEP, SIMPLE, 401(k), and 403(b) plans — and highlights additional strategies to boost retirement readiness. Read More
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