Merline & Meacham, P.A.

10/19/2026

Paying dividends isn’t the only way to take cash out of your C corporation. Corporate distributions are generally taxable to you to the extent of your company’s “earnings and profits,” and your company can’t deduct them.

To avoid dividend treatment, consider having your business repay bona fide loans you’ve made to it or taking out properly structured loans from it. You might also increase your compensation (as long as it’s still “reasonable”) or qualifying tax-free fringe benefits — or lease or sell assets to your business.

Before proceeding, evaluate the tax implications for you and your corporation. Contact us to review the applicable rules and determine what’s right for your situation.

https://merlineandmeacham.com/2026/10/09/5-tax-smart-ways-to-take-cash-out-of-your-c-corporation/

10/17/2026

The laws governing the ex*****on of a valid will vary by state, but they generally require certain formalities. If a will isn’t properly executed, a court could later determine that all or part of it is invalid. But what happens if your will has been executed and you later need to make a change? For minor changes, a codicil — a separate legal document that amends specific provisions of an existing will — may be the answer. For more extensive changes, creating and properly executing a new will may be preferable. This can reduce confusion by putting your current wishes in one document rather than requiring your executor and beneficiaries to reconcile multiple amendments.

https://merlineandmeacham.com/2026/10/09/when-your-will-needs-an-update-follow-the-formalities/

10/14/2026

At Merline & Meacham, P.A., we believe that taking a moment to celebrate the small things is what keeps our team connected. Today is National Dessert Day and our team got the absolute sweetest surprise when our Marketing Coordinator surprised the entire office with an incredible selection of delicious desserts to celebrate the day!

We are so grateful for all the treats that brightened up our day with an extra dose of sweetness and joy!

10/14/2026

10/12/2026

As you review your business’s 2026 expenditures, pay close attention to work performed on buildings and equipment.

You can generally deduct ordinary repairs and maintenance expenses, but you must capitalize property improvements, including betterments, restorations and adaptations. Safe harbors may allow current deductions for some costs. Certain capitalized improvements may also qualify for a full first-year deduction through bonus depreciation or Sec. 179. Proper classification may affect recordkeeping, potential recapture and state tax deductions.

Contact us to help classify your 2026 expenditures and discuss potential tax-planning moves before year end.

https://merlineandmeacham.com/2026/10/09/repair-or-improvement-does-the-distinction-matter-under-current-tax-law/

10/10/2026

To the business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs: we see how much you carry.

Running a business requires wearing a dozen different hats. Between managing growth, navigating complex tax laws, and handling legal compliance, owner burnout is a very real risk to your mental health.

You don't have to navigate the legal and financial complexities along. Delegating your corporate governance and tax planning to trusted professionals isn't just a smart business move - it's essential for your mental well-being.

This World Mental Health Day, give yourself permission to hand off the heavy lifting to us. Contact Merline & Meacham, P.A. for your business law and tax law issues.

10/09/2026

We are proud to share that Merline & Meacham, P.A. attorney Phillip Martin was a featured speaker at Old Republic Title’s recent 2026 South Carolina Fall Seminar which was held at the historic The Westin Poinsett in Greenville. The event was a fantastic success and provided Phillip with a platform to present on the South Carolina probate process. During his session, titled "South Carolina Probate - What You Need to Know," he shared essential legal insights and practical guidance with the attendees breaking down how to smoothly navigate the probate process.

10/05/2026

Behind every successful attorney, business owner, and community leader is a teacher who believed in them.

Today on World Teachers' Day, the team at Merline & Meacham, P.A. wants to express our deepest gratitude to the educators who shape our world. From teaching us how to read to fostering critical thinking skills we use daily, we owe you so much.

To all the teachers navigating the classrooms today: Thank you for your patience, your passion, and your tireless dedication. You are building the future, one student at a time.

Drop a comment below to shout out a teacher who changed your life! 👇

10/01/2026

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a powerful reminder to schedule regular screenings, support survivors, and prioritize our health.

Estate planning also provides a unique opportunity to support the causes closest to your heart. Through planned giving, you can designate a percentage of your estate or name a breast cancer research organization or a patient support organization as a beneficiary in your will or trust, ensuring your impact lives on for generations. Don't wait for a diagnosis to protect your future. This month, as you take steps to secure your health, take time to secure your legal peace of mind.

09/30/2026

Trusts can serve many purposes in an estate plan. Two broad categories are inter vivos trusts and testamentary trusts. Both can help manage assets, but they differ significantly. An inter vivos trust is created while you’re alive. You transfer assets to the trust, and a trustee manages them according to the trust agreement. With a revocable inter vivos trust, you can serve as trustee during your life and the trust assets avoid probate at your death. A testamentary trust is established through your will and generally goes into effect after the will is admitted to probate. This type of trust can be useful when beneficiaries shouldn’t receive an inheritance outright. Contact us for details.

https://merlineandmeacham.com/2026/09/03/inter-vivos-and-testamentary-trusts-can-help-you-achieve-different-estate-planning-goals/