Discover the Benefits of Professional Tax Preparation with IMG

Dion Cruz • March 7, 2024
In the bustling world of new families and ambitious business startups, managing finances and navigating the complexities of tax preparation can seem overwhelming. This is where I step in. As a tax preparer with IMG and over 20 years of expertise in guiding individuals and small businesses through their tax preparation and financial planning, my mission is to illuminate your financial path. My approach is designed not just to address your immediate needs but to lay a foundation for lasting prosperity.

Personalized Advice Tailored to Your Unique Needs

Your financial situation is as unique as your fingerprint. Whether you're navigating the joys and challenges of a new family or steering the ship of a fledgling business, generic advice simply won't cut it. I offer personalized tax and financial advice, meticulously crafted around the intricacies of your finances. My deep understanding goes beyond what any software can comprehend, ensuring decisions are not just informed, but also perfectly tailored to your situation.

Proactive Tax Planning: More Than Just Tax Season Support

Think of me not just as your tax season savior, but as a year-round partner in your financial wellbeing. Unlike tax software that guides you through the motions, I delve deep into proactive tax planning strategies. From optimizing deductions and credits to uncovering opportunities to minimize your tax liability, my approach is designed for your long-term benefit. With me, it's not just about filing taxes; it's about setting the stage for future financial success.

The Comfort of Ongoing Support and Relationship

Imagine having a financial expert in your corner, ready to answer your queries or address concerns not just during tax season but throughout the entire year. This ongoing support and relationship with me and the rest of the IMG team means peace of mind for you. It allows you to focus on what truly matters—be it growing your business or nurturing your family—knowing your financial and tax matters are in capable hands.

Audit Assistance: Your Shield in Challenging Times

Though audits are rare, they can be daunting. I stand by you, armed with an intimate understanding of your financial history, to navigate through these challenging times. My expertise in audit preparation, representation, and guidance can not only alleviate stress but also mitigate potential penalties.

Saving Time, Enhancing Life

Time is your most precious resource. While tax software may promise speed, the reality can shift dramatically with the complexity of your finances. By entrusting your tax preparation to me, you free up invaluable time. Time that can be invested in growing your business, spending with your loved ones, or pursuing your passions.

Let's Take the Next Step Together

Embarking on your financial journey with me and the IMG team means more than just tax preparation; it's about securing a brighter, more secure financial future for you and your loved ones. With two decades of experience at your disposal, the path to informed decision-making, financial optimization, and peace of mind has never been clearer. Schedule a consultation and meeting today. Let's explore how we can turn your financial goals into reality.
A lot of cars are parked in a parking lot.
By Dion Cruz November 1, 2024
If you’ve been surprised by the rising cost of your auto insurance, you’re not alone. Auto insurance rates continue to climb, and several factors are contributing to this trend. Here’s what’s driving up premiums and what you can do to manage your costs. 1. Rising Vehicle Theft One of the most significant contributors to rising auto insurance premiums is the increase in vehicle theft. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, vehicle theft rates have been on a steady climb since 2019, hitting an all-time high in 2023. This surge in thefts not only affects the individuals whose vehicles are stolen but also contributes to higher insurance costs across the board, as insurers adjust premiums to cover the increasing number of claims. 2. More Expensive Repairs Due to Advanced Technology Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, including driver assistance systems and complex sensors. While these features improve safety, they also make cars much more expensive to repair. In fact, fixing these advanced systems can add up to 37.6% more to repair costs compared to traditional vehicles. As a result, insurers have to factor these higher repair costs into their pricing models, which leads to higher premiums for consumers. 3. Increasing Severity of Accidents Accidents are becoming more severe, and that’s another factor driving up auto insurance costs. With larger and heavier vehicles, such as SUVs and electric cars, the impact of collisions can be much greater, leading to more significant damage and higher medical and repair costs. Additionally, the growing number of electric vehicles on the road poses new challenges, as many safety systems and guardrails are not yet equipped to handle these heavier vehicles, increasing the severity of accidents. 4. Used Vehicle Prices are Skyrocketing The price of used cars has surged by nearly 47.9% as of Q3 2023. This means that when an insurance company has to replace a totaled vehicle, the cost to do so is much higher than in previous years. The sharp rise in used car prices is directly impacting insurance premiums, as insurers adjust to cover the higher replacement costs. What Can You Do About Rising Auto Insurance Rates? While rising premiums can be frustrating, there are a few strategies you can use to manage your costs: Review Your Coverage: Take the time to review your auto insurance policy. You may be able to adjust your coverage to better fit your current needs, potentially lowering your premium. Consider a Higher Deductible: Increasing your deductible can lower your monthly premium, but be sure you’re comfortable with the out-of-pocket cost if you need to file a claim. Bundle Your Policies: Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle your auto insurance with other types of coverage, such as home or renter’s insurance. This can be a great way to save money. If you’re concerned about your rising auto insurance premiums and want to explore your options, Schedule a Consultation with us today. We’ll help you navigate the changes and find a solution that works for your budget and coverage needs.
An aerial view of a residential neighborhood in the fall with trees changing colors.
By duda October 15, 2024
If you've noticed your home insurance premiums increasing, you're not alone. In today’s market, several factors are contributing to rising insurance costs, and homeowners are feeling the impact. The reasons behind these increases go beyond just inflation—they stem from a combination of economic, environmental, and industry-specific trends that are driving up the cost of repair, rebuild, and coverage. Here's a look at what’s causing home insurance rates to climb and what you can do about it. What’s Driving Up Home Insurance Rates? Labor Shortages and Material Costs: The cost of building materials has surged dramatically since 2020, and labor shortages in the construction industry continue to push costs even higher. From July 2023 to July 2024, residential reconstruction costs alone rose by 4.9%. This means that if your home needs repairs, those costs will likely be higher than just a few years ago. Insurers adjust their premiums to account for these increased expenses, so you're paying more to reflect the true cost of rebuilding. Extreme Weather Events: Catastrophic weather is becoming more frequent and severe. In 2023 alone, the U.S. experienced 28 separate billion-dollar weather-related disasters. These events result in significant damage to homes across the country, driving up insurance claims. When insurance companies face higher claim payouts, they adjust their rates to offset these costs, meaning higher premiums for everyone. Water and Fire Damage: According to recent reports, over 380,000 residential fires in 2022 led to nearly $11 billion in property damage. Meanwhile, water damage, including damage from freezing, has become one of the most common home insurance claims. With one in 60 homes experiencing water-related property damage each year, it's clear why insurers are increasing premiums to cover these growing risks. What Can Homeowners Do? Though rising insurance rates are out of your control, there are a few steps you can take to better manage your premiums: Schedule a Coverage Review: This helps ensure you’re not over- or under-insured. Your insurer can review your coverage and help tailor your protection to meet current market conditions. Consider a Higher Deductible: If you're comfortable with a higher out-of-pocket cost in the event of a claim, increasing your deductible may lower your premium. Look for Discounts: Installing safety features like fire alarms, water sensors, or even smart home technology can sometimes lead to discounts on your insurance. Ask your insurer about potential savings. Bundle Your Policies: Bundling your home and auto insurance, when available, can help you save on both policies. Stay Ahead of Rising Costs As home insurance rates continue to increase, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive. For tailored advice and solutions that fit your needs, schedule a consultation with us today. We'll help you navigate these changes and find the best options to protect your home without overpaying. Understanding why premiums are rising is the first step to making informed decisions about your home insurance. Let's work together to ensure you have the right coverage at a fair price.