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Persistent inflation, elevated interest rates and volatile energy costs continue to squeeze profit margins for many small and midsize businesses. While implementing price increases may seem like the simplest response, that’s not always necessary — and, in today’s competitive markets, price increases can even cause some of your customers to search for lower-cost providers. Sustainable […]

As your not-for-profit looks for new ways to strengthen long-term financial performance, you might be considering alternative investments. They boost diversification and can provide higher returns than traditional investments. But they also can add complexity and risk, increase investment costs, and expand tax exposure. Before committing assets, be sure to assess the pros and cons […]

Audits are designed to improve accountability, strengthen internal controls, and reduce risk. Yet year after year, many municipalities continue to receive the same findings during financial statement audits.    But why is that?    Audit findings are rarely caused by a single mistake. Repeated findings often point to underlying weaknesses in processes, oversight, documentation, staffing, or internal controls. […]

If you’re seeking financing to start or grow a small business, don’t forget to look at loan programs through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Down payments, interest rates and borrowing fees are typically lower, and application requirements may be more flexible than you’d find elsewhere. Some SBA loans also come with counseling and education, […]

Tax scammers continue to target taxpayers through email, text messages, phone calls and regular mail. They often try to create urgency or fear to trick victims into sharing sensitive information or sending money. The IRS warns taxpayers to remain cautious because scammers continually change tactics to steal personal and financial information. IRS Impersonation Scams First […]

Some small business owners overlook Roth IRAs because they assume their income is too high for them to qualify to make Roth contributions. Others may think their current tax rate is higher than it will be in retirement, making current tax deductions more valuable than future tax-free distributions. However, if you don’t at least consider contributing to […]

A Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is one of the most critical strategic tools available to local government. Whether for a city, village, township, or county, the CIP answers the fundamental questions of leadership: what major infrastructure costs are coming, and how will we pay for them?   While some view a CIP as a mere “wish […]

Nonprofits often face challenges that require specialized expertise, broader community representation or fundraising connections beyond what their governing boards provide. An advisory board can be an effective way to strengthen leadership capacity and support strategic initiatives by bringing in outside perspectives without expanding formal governance responsibilities. Evaluate Your Organization’s Needs One way to assess whether […]

Grants are a critical funding source for local governments, supporting everything from infrastructure improvements to public safety initiatives and community development. However, securing grant funding is only the first step.    Effective grant management, from application through closeout, is essential to maintain compliance, safeguard public funds, and position governments for future awards.   Based on our experience working with […]

Parker is a manager in the Tax department at Maner Costerisan. In his role, he works closely with individuals and small to midsize businesses to provide tax support, including compliance services and strategic tax planning. Parker enjoys collaborating with clients and helping them navigate tax matters with confidence while supporting their long-term goals.  Parker brings six years of […]

For the 12 months ending in April 2026, the U.S. inflation rate was 3.8%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Prices for your business’s products, materials and other operating costs may have risen faster in recent months than you anticipated, making planning and forecasting challenging. How can your business counteract inflation? Start by making prudent […]

Late customer payments don’t just create temporary cash shortages. Over time, inconsistent collections can disrupt budgeting, increase borrowing needs and make it harder to plan for growth. In response to cash flow challenges, many businesses focus heavily on increasing revenue while overlooking how efficiently they convert receivables into cash. But even a strong top line […]

Given the many potential threats to your business’s assets, cash flow and human resources, which types of insurance products and how much coverage do you need? Some organizations pay for policies that don’t make sense based on their industry or operations. Others have inadequate coverage where risk may be significant. What about your business? It […]

Kristen joined Maner Costersian in 2026 and is a business development manager. In her role, she focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships within the business community, developing new client opportunities, and serving as a connector between organizations and the firm’s service teams. Kristen is passionate about helping clients find meaningful resources and solutions that support both their professional and personal […]

Tax identity theft isn’t limited to individual taxpayers — businesses are also targeted through their Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), payroll systems and tax filings. The financial impact of these crimes can be significant. Businesses may face delayed or stolen tax refunds, unauthorized payroll filings, and the time and expense of resolving IRS issues. There may […]