A Case for Collaboration

Last year, Orion Mobility was featured in an article written byMichelle Sandlinfor Mobility magazine, entitled: “All for One: The case for collaboration in Global Mobility.”  This is a very relevant and common theme that has been reverberating throughout the industry in recent years, and one that is certainly important for us at Orion, as it captures the essence of the relationship that we enjoy every day with our clients and partners.

The article went on to receive the “Mobility Editorial Achievement Award,” which was presented to Michelle last month at the Worldwide ERCÒ Americas Mobility Conference in Houston.  While the article underscores the highly collaborative nature of the global mobility industry, it also draws attention to the fact that collaboration isn’t something that is just happening between strategic partners or between clients and service providers.  Collaboration between competitors has also become surprisingly more prevalent.

The reason for this is that we are all working towards the same goals, which is to help our ultimate clients and customers achieve their business objectives.  And, we have learned that we can best do that by working with each other, as opposed to working against each other.

Today, our industry encompasses many different kinds of relocation, including business travelers, rotational assignments, short-term assignments, long-term assignments, and even so-called “normal” domestic relocations.  They are no longer thought of or treated differently, but rather as all part of the same mobility function and process.  In the same regard, the various global mobility business segments must learn to work together and in symphony with one another.  After all, we are all players on the same team.

As companies continue to expand, and the need for deploying their workforce into global markets increases, so does their need and capability to gather and track different types of data as part of the relocation process.  Technology and communication are key components in doing that, and more companies are looking at their partners and service providers to work together to come up with viable solutions.

In the last year, Orion has seen a significant uptick in the number of clients that are calling on their partners and service providers to work together to devise new and better systems that will streamline communication and processes between their vendors.  I expect this type of collaboration to be a growing trend within the industry, because at the end of the day, the beneficiaries of more efficient processes are not just the client themselves, but also their transferees and assignees and their families.

Likewise, technology continues to play a vital role in the collaboration process, because it creates a platform whereby the companies and individuals who need to be able to work together can have access to and share critical information as it relates to relocation.  At the same time, it allows the corporate client to access the information and stay more closely involved in the process.

To accomplish this in the most effective way possible, there needs to be a single platform that can be utilized by all of the parties involved, versus multiple, disconnected proprietary systems that contain only part of the data.  Part of the data means that they only have part of the story.

Finally, collaboration makes it possible to bring together the “best of the best” service providers, allowing each of them to do what it is that they do best, while working in conjunction with each other to provide their clients with a robust array of service solutions that are not isolated, but that are all part of a bigger machine.

So, the case for collaboration is going to continue to be at the forefront of the global mobility industry, and will further define the way that truly successful companies operate today and in the future.

Relocating can be an extremely expensive process. Between the costs of transporting your belongings, renting a storage unit and your trip to the new destination, you may be looking for a way to save some money. If you’re a transferee, you might be eligible to deduct your relocation expenses if your work-related move meets certain requirements designated by the IRS. Please see the infographic below for more information:

For additional instruction using Form 3903, refer toIRS Publication 521: Moving Expenses.Reach out to our tax experts on Twitter@orion_mobilitywith any questions you may have regarding deducting moving expenses.

When you ask an employee to relocate, you’re also indirectly asking his/her whole family to relocate. Whether the job is in a different state or a different country, they will have a lot to consider before formally accepting the position. Potential transferees might have concerns about the area to which they are moving; the cost of living, the quality of the school district and most dauntingly, where will their spouse work? There is clearly a new career path or promotion for the transferee but unfortunately the future isn’t as certain for the supporting or “trailing” spouse.

In most of today’s modern households, both men and women must work to maintain financial stability. If the spouse doesn’t have a job lined up at the new location, the transferee will need to be compensated enough to afford a comfortable lifestyle for the two of them and their children, if applicable. The primary reason employees are reluctant to accept a position in a new location is because of their spouse’s career. However, offering family assistance services can increase a company’s assignment acceptance rate and decrease the assignment failure rate.

There are a few options for the spouse of a transferee:

If his/her current job has multiple offices, they may be able to transfer to a different location.If his/her current positon allows the option of telecommuting, technology advancements like remote access make it easy to do so.If the relocation package offers job search services, he/she has a good chance of finding a new job or switching careers.If he/she is struggling to find a job that fits their skill offering, they may be eligible to collect unemployment or underemployment depending on state Department of Labor laws.

Spousal assistance isn’t always included in the relocation package but transferees may request it and negotiate as needed. Luckily,Atlas Van Lines 2015 Relocation Surveyfound that 65% of relocation management companies already offer spousal assistance services, so spouses are included in the process and don’t have to stress too much about finding a job! Some of these services include career planning, resume revision and distribution, interview preparation workshops, professional networking events and counseling for career alternatives. A helpful spousal assistance program can likely bridge the gap for an undecided transferee to a happy, relocating couple.

In this booming economy, there is so much opportunity for a relocating couple. There are an increasing number of jobs becoming available all over the country and with the real estate market rapidly recovering, finding a home in the new location should be something to look forward to as a family! Relocation management companies can help transferees and their spouses with the many aspects of the relocation process. Orion Mobility is here to partner with you to offer our specialized financial services, helping companies manage move-related expenses and taxes so they stay in compliance.

For many companies, a new year means selecting new candidates to relocate. Finding the right candidates for the job who are willing to move can be difficult but keeping your employees satisfied while they’re 50+ miles away can be an even bigger challenge.

Relocation can run into thousands of dollars so HR has to conduct extensive analysis to make sure potential transferees are worth the investment and seeking a long-term position. When employee turnover is high, productivity is likely to suffer.

1. Establish your criteria for the assignment and try to recruit a qualified candidate right from the start.Existing team members usually fit the credentials but may not want to be inconvenienced with the burden of moving. Alternatively, new hires typically have more flexibility but don’t have a high level of commitment to the company yet. The last thing you want is to let a transferee go if they’re not a good fit.

2. Provide your transferees with a relocation package that covers the essentials and then some.The move will require the basics such as moving and storage, home marketing, home finding, etc. If possible, it doesn’t hurt to offer additional services like family assistance or cultural and language training. Giving transferees the tools they need throughout the entire process will help them to stay productive and experience a smooth transition to their new location.

3. If possible, create opportunities for promotions and professional development.When you promote from within, employees are already familiar with the company culture and the job responsibilities of lower-level internal positions. Implementing a training program can help candidates learn the essential skills necessary for success as they grow with the company. Having the possibility of career advancements keeps your transferees focused and motivated.

4. Offer reward incentives to your transferees.Encourage your employees to meet specific goals within set deadlines. Financial incentives such as bonuses, PTO or tuition assistance is a great way to keep your employees engaged. Employees know their worth and expect compensation to match, especially if they have to leave the place that they call home.

5. Communicate with your transferees during and after the moving process.Check in to make sure they’re adjusting to their new location and encourage them to express any issues or concerns that they may have. If you conduct quarterly reviews, it will show your employees that you care about their satisfaction and value their work.

Consider these 5 tips when you revise your employee retention strategy for 2016.

Three states have lowered their marginal tax rates for 2016.  First, Maine adjusted the rates used in its marginal tax tables including lowering the top rate from 7.95% to 7.15%.  Massachusetts lowered its flat marginal rate from 5.15% to 5.1%, thanks to revenue growth which automatically triggered lowering the rate by 0.05%.  Additionally, in Oklahoma, the top rate in its marginal tax tables has been lowered from 5.25% to 5.0%.

These three states, along with several other states with changes for 2016, have been updated in all of our relocation management systems. To recieve automatic tax updates,subscribe to our blogtoday!

President Obama signed the budget deal into law on Friday. Included in the bill are numerous tax breaks that have been extended including the option to deduct sales tax on the Federal tax return. Not only has this been extended for 2015 but it has been made permanent.

For the past few years, there has been a question of whether this deduction would be extended for the current year, and we often wouldn’t know until Congress would pass a one- or two-year extension late in the year. By being made permanent, the suspense will be gone going forward.

Today, the IRS announced the 2016 mileage rates.  The business mileage rate was lowered from $0.575/mile in 2015 to $0.54/mile in 2016.  The deductible final move mileage rate was also lowered from $0.23/mile in 2015 to $0.19/mile in 2016.  The charitable mileage rate remains unchanged at $0.14/mile.  For additional details, visit theIRS website.

It’s never too late to start the year end process.Tracking transferee’s expenses, running expense reports and auditing relocation software can be overwhelming for an entire team, let alone a single person. Due to the fluctuation of federal and state tax standards, companies with relocating employees run into difficulties distinguishing between various tax coding and auditing requirements. Planning ahead for tax season will save your company a lot of time and stress when year-end rolls around. If you have not started, here’s how to begin:

Accounting departments have the choice between following the calendar tax year or a fiscal tax year. The calendar year runs from December to January. Unfortunately, this is “busy season” for most businesses; management will need to focus their efforts on running the business instead of reviewing income statements and balance sheets. As an alternative, businesses can submit the IRS Form 1128 and request to start their tax year at the start of a different month, typically October 1st through September 30th.

As you begin to run your tax calculations internally, consider these 10 checklist items to plan ahead for year-end.

Schedule a Year-End Meeting

Schedule a year-end meeting between HR, Payroll, Corporate Tax and the Relocation department and/or service provider. This is an opportunity to discuss year-end tasks, delegate each department’s responsibilities and finalize your year-end schedule.

Warn your Transferees!

If you are running a year-end delta report (withholding vs gross-up report), warn your transferees that many of them will have adjustments to their withholding buckets in December. (Some will be positive adjustments but most will be negative adjustments.)

Calculate Year-End Gross Ups with 1040 (US Individual Income Tax Return)

If you are calculating year-end gross ups, remember to use the 1040 Federal Tax Return exemption numbers. The W-4 number does not always reflect the actual 1040 number.

Track and Alert for Year-End Deadlines

Schedule a calendar reminder to alert your transferees of any year-end deadlines involving submission of expenses.

Run Reports between Payroll & Relocation

Start running tests files and reports between the payroll and relocation departments. Make sure everyone is in agreement with the format of any files.

Run a Year-to-Date Report for Relocation

Have both Payroll and Relocation run a year-to-date report, showing what passed for the year in relocation, such as total taxable incomes and total withholdings. If the reports don’t tie, go back and see if one of the reports slipped through the cracks during the year.

Run an Audit Report

Run an audit report to check for missing information that will be needed for year-end calculations. Typically, it is important to include: Marital Status, 1040 Exemptions, Tax State, Homeowner/Renter Status and Annual Salary

Run Expense Report

Run an expense report for all expenses entered in 2015. Double check to be sure that none have an expense date with a different year. These expenses might otherwise be missed for 2015.

Double check Tax Gross-up Settings

Double check switch and policy settings in your software program to make sure they are compliant with your company’s gross- up policy.

Make a Checklist

Keep a checklist as you go through your year-end schedule to be sure nothing is missed or overlooked.

When companies move employees across the nation and especially across the globe, it can be difficult to manage year-end processes internally. As year-end approaches, you might find yourself overwhelmingly busy gathering forms and collecting receipts. Outsourcing to a relocation tax expert is a simple solution to avoid filing mistakes and subsequent IRS penalties and fees.

For nearly 30 years Orion Mobility has supported clients with gross-up, coding, auditing and reporting. We can help maintain your employee’s expenses so you don’t have to search high and low for important receipts when it comes time for tax reporting. Check out our blog post5 steps to reduce your income tax burdenfor a list of ways for individuals and businesses to prepare for tax season throughout the year.

Several states have recently announced income tax changes for 2015. Two of those states have made changes to their income tax rates. Connecticut has increased its top tax rate from 6.7% to 6.99%. The increase will affect those with taxable incomes exceeding $250,000 if single and $500,000 if married filing jointly. Meanwhile, Ohio has reduced its tax rates for all brackets, lowering them from a range of 0.528% - 5.333% to 0.495% - 4.997%. All of these changes have been applied to ourreloviewsComplete™programs.

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On Wednesday, the IRS announced inflation adjustments to several tax provisions for 2016. Revenue Procedure 2015-53 contains all the details including updated individual income tax tables.  The tables show no changes to tax rates but the brackets have been adjusted slightly for inflation. The value of an exemption will increase from $4,000 to $4,050. Standard deduction amounts are unchanged with the exception of Head of Household, which will increase from $9,250 to $9,300. For additional information, please view theAdjustment Announcementand for a complete list of changes, visit theIRS website.

The Social Security Administration has announced that the FICA wage base will not increase for 2016 and will remain at $118,500.  This is unusual but has occasionally happened in the past, most recently in consecutive years between 2009-2011.  The administration had recently announced that there would be no increase in Social Security benefits for 2016, and without an increase in benefits, by law the withholding threshold can’t be increased.   Meanwhile, there are no changes to the OASDI or Medicare rates.

Sometimes it takes a little extra persuasion for your boss to let you go to a conference. You’ll be away from the office for a few days, the registration fees may be higher than the budget allows, you’ll probably have to allocate money for travel costs and maybe even spend a night or two in a hotel. If you’ve already convinced your boss to let you go to ERC’s Global Workforce Symposium this fall, getting approval forOrion Mobility’s Tax Workshopshould be a walk in the park!

We are excited to be hosting a Tax Workshop & Cocktail Reception in Boston on October 6th, 2015 to kick off ERC’s Global Workforce Symposium. Relocation industry professionals are welcome to join us from 3:00 - 5:00 PM for a Tax Workshop, followed by a lovely cocktail reception from 5:00 – 8:00 PM.

Our venue, Top of the Hub is on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. Sound familiar? That’s because it’s the same building as ERC’s host hotel, the Sheraton. Instead of navigating your way across the city, all you have to do is look for an elevator! Our guests will enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Boston’s skyline from 52 floors above ground.

The Tax Workshop will consist of important relocation topics such as a 2015 Tax Update, Expected Changes for 2016, Year-end Process, a brief Mortgage Disclosure Update and an interactive panel discussion on How to Run a Global Relocation Program. We’re excited to have a lineup of knowledgeable speakers share their experience of relocation with our guests. Speakers participating in this year’s Tax Workshop include:

Shawn Sweeney, Orion MobilityJay Hershman, Associated Attorney Title & Closing Company, P.C.Peter Fonseca, Orion MobilitySean Watts, EYStacie Groce, Air Energi

After a long day of traveling to all the way to Massachusetts and then listening to people talk about tax for two hours, you might be thinking “I need a drink… or five…". Lucky for you, the Cocktail Reception will begin directly after the Tax Workshop. Stick around to enjoy music from a live DJ, Zagat-Rated food and a few cocktails on us. There is plenty of space so feel free to invite your colleagues too.

A lot of people only go to these kinds of events so they can gain ERC credits, network and escape the office for a little while… This business trip, you’ll have an opportunity to make memories and make friends. Here’s what you tell your boss (if he asks):

You already have plans to be in Boston the same week for ERCYou’ll get two extra CRP creditsAttendance is free!!

The Tax Workshop portion of the event would not be possible without the generous sponsorship from our friends atBaillie & Hershman P.C. Associated Attorney Title & Closing Co. P.C.Additionally; we would like to thankATB Furnished Housing,Budd Van LinesandEverBankfor their contribution to the Cocktail Party!

If you are not registered yet, you can visit our website tosign uptoday. Use#OMTaxWS15on Twitter to let us know how excited you are!

In November of 2013, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued multiple amendments to the Mortgage Disclosure Requirements and updated the Disclosure Forms associated with the Dodd-Frank Act. These amendments were scheduled to go into effect on the August 1st, 2015, however they have been postponed until October 3rd, 2015.

If you are not familiar with the upcoming alterations to the mortgage disclosure regulations, summaries of the changes and CFPB’s justifications are provided below:

Real Estate settlement procedures are complex; terms and pricing details can sometimes be overlooked by the buyer. As a result, the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rule protects consumers against disclosure issues, this requirement is also referred to as the "Know Before You Owe" rule. Typically, when consumers are purchasing a home, the first step is to apply for financial assistance. After the buyer has been approved for a mortgage loan, the lender/agent/broker has an obligation to provide disclosure information through two new forms: the Loan Estimate form and the Closing Disclosure form. With this implementation, the CFPB hopes that home buyers will be aware of the condition of their potential home so they will have opportunity to ask questions and reconsider before they close on the mortgage.

Another change to the requirement involves the consolidation of mandatory disclosure forms in an effort to reduce the amount of paperwork and simplify the content so it is more comprehensible to consumers. Moving forward, the Good Faith Estimate as well as Initial Truth in Lending forms will be replaced with a single "Loan Estimate" form. Additionally, the HUD-1 and Final Truth in Lending forms with be replaced with the new "Closing Disclosure" form.

The new Disclosure Requirements have been scheduled to go into effect on October 3rd, 2015. If there are any changes to the development and implementation of these regulations, we will keep our readers updated.

There is still time to do some spring cleaning to help you get ready for moving season. Getting organized and decluttering regularly is important not just at home but at work as well.

Having a messy desk or cluttered office creates unnecessary stress, yet the one thing that is most often overlooked is your inbox. Nothing is more stressful than having the inbox highlight all the unread message you have. You may have thousands of emails sitting there and it can get out of control if not maintained properly.

You don’t want to miss an important email or not being able to locate it in the abyss we all call our “inbox”. With moving season upon us, it’s time to organize, purge and systemize your inbox to work for you. Avoid the frustration by following these helpful tips:

Before getting started remember to start small! Like relocating someone, the process takes time and organizing your inbox will too. Don’t get discouraged when your inbox is flooded again, just take your time and remember you’re making progress.

Systemize–

Keep this simple, create folders and use filters along with rules. Try not to over complicate your folders by creating dozens of different folders. Setting up filters and rules will move mail immediately to a preferred location saving you the time from thinking about and organizing each email you receive. You can set it up to tell you if you have any new email in any of your folders, allowing you to prioritize your tasks and time according to your needs.If you use Outlook, change the inbox to display conversations, your e-mail threads will now actually have context to them and you can read through earlier e-mails on the same discussion.

Declutter–

Maintain a clear separation between work and personal accounts. You are more likely to get distracted when you mix the merge the two accounts.Clear your spam and reduce the amount of unwanted emails, newsletter pollution and unimportant emails. Don’t be afraid to hit delete and unsubscribe to anything that you may not find relative or useful.Archive your email by moving old messages out of your inbox. You can define the age of the email you want to move, the size that your inbox has to reach before the move happens, and if you want to move unread messages too.Delete your trash!  If that commitment scares you, then just set a limit on how long your trash folder holds messages before they’re removed. Again, if you ever feel like keeping a message longer, but don’t want it in your inbox, move it to a specific folder instead of deleting it!

Prioritize and Maintain–

Make it a personal habit to read and reply to emails rather than letting them sit. The little notification bar pops up and it’s natural to want to click it. Turn it off and set aside time every day to check your email and move on to the actionable things you need to get don that day. If you organized your folders or filter properly, you can effectivity maintain and address your emails correspondence accordingly.If you find that you send the same reply over and over again, you may want to look at automatic replies that can make replying to these emails easier. There are numerous programs that can help process emails and free up your time.Depending on your preferences you may want to hook your email to your mobile device. Some people don’t want their work to distract their personal time. However, chances are there will be times when you have time to check your emails, deal with anything important and clear out the clutter. You can go into work with the mindset of knowing your first task isn’t jumping into reading or replying emails.Keep it up and maintain a zero inbox number. Create a schedule and do a manual sweeps where you check your email and folders in regular intervals. It’s your inbox you have the power to consolidate, restructure and delete as you see fit.

Take control and maintain your inbox so you’re prepared in time for moving season. Cutting out the distractions will help you manage your time more efficiently so you can move on to other important tasks. You can significantly reduce the size of your inbox, along with stress!

Find out how our process emails, tasks and ticklers within reloviewsComplete™ can help you stay organized during every stage of the relocation process.Click herefor more details.

Your relocation process is finally finished! You’ve finally settled into your new city and you’re beginning to adjust but now you have to get your taxes in order. You may be experiencing the pressure of this year’s tax filing deadline. When the thought enters your mind you feel symptoms like nausea, anxiety and shortness of breath? You are not alone; it is very common to feel anxiety when you are gathering your relocation receipts.

Knowing how to keep calm will help you avoid mistakes and potential tax ramifications. Here are some helpful tips that will provide you a sense of control, calm and peace of mind while preparing your taxes:

1.Breathe and look inward:Start by taking a few deep breaths, clear your mind and let go of that feeling of dread that you have been holding onto. Then ask yourself what actually worries you about filing your taxes? Once you have identified one or two issues that worry you the most, then you can start taking steps to relieve your anxiety by resolving those potential problems before you file.

2.Don’t procrastinate:Any stress you have now about your taxes will only intensify if you wait as time gets closer to the filing deadline. The longer you wait in putting it off, the more time you have to worry. Create a to-do list and get started.

Helpful Tip:If for some reason, you are unable to meet the tax deadline you canfile for an extension.

3.Get organized:Some people keep all of their receipts and tax documents organized and some do not. Don’t worry; start gathering what you can find and start piling it together a little every day. By this point you should have received your relocation tax report and W-2 from your employer. If you are still missing documents, don’t hesitate to contact your accounting or payroll departments for copies of receipts or documentation that you may need.

Helpful Tip:The relocation tax report summarizes the reimbursed expenses, shows which reimbursements are taxable, excludable or not reportable and it provides a breakdown of the gross-up.

4.Seek a professional and ask questions:Do you have more questions than you expected or are you unsure about what forms to fill out or what to deduct? There is nothing wrong with asking for help. Write down your questions; research your options then find a certified tax preparer. You can also contact relocation coordinator for additional assistance.

5.Reflect and Review:Once your taxes are completed, make sure to review your tax preparer’s work. It is your responsibility as the tax payer to ensure that all the information on your tax returns is accurate to the best of your knowledge and belief. However, if you file and discover that you missed something, all is not lost. You can file an amended return, letting the IRS know you found a mistake and it will show you took the proper steps in getting it rectified. A quick amended return can save you from further anxiety as well as any unforeseen fines.

6.Take another deep breath, exhale and relax:Take a moment and be realistic. If you recorded and kept track of your moving documents, you handled your deductible expenses and filled out the proper tax forms then the IRS has little reason to track you down.  Inhale, exhale and remember tax time does not have to be stressful. You have the tools and resources you need to get through it.

Get organized, set a plan in motion and you will soon see that you won’t have to procrastinate when tax time rolls around. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you, with these helpful tips you can kick that anxiety to the curb!

Still concerned or have question regarding your taxes? Share them with us in the comment section below. Our team of CPA's are here to help!

This year, 111.5 million people turned on their TV’s to watch the big game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. For those not-so-sport-obsessed people, it is all about watching the commercials and the half-time show! How boring would the Super Bowl be, if there wasn’t its fair share of excitement, entertainment and of course controversy.

As the game unfolded, so did the interesting set of ads that lacked the level of humor in comparison to previous years’ and focused more on appealing to consumers’ emotions. The half-time show had its fair share of moments; Katy Perry rode in on a massive tiger, and featured both Lenny Kravitz and Missy Elliott as special guests. Towards the end of the game, there were unexpected plays and resulted in a fistfight.

Organizing a large event like the Super Bowl requires a lot of moving parts in order for it to be successful. The same goes for relocation; expectations run high for both the service provider and the end client. There are always challenges when you join forces and partner with outside individuals or companies. This year’s Super Bowl reflected the importance of collaboration, especially, when you are looking to coordinate with another company. Here are a few valuable lessons in developing strategic partnerships:

Play up what makes you unique

Amy Purdy, Paralympic athlete and “Dancing with the Stars” contestant, was featured along with one of Muhammad Ali’s greatest speeches in Toyota’s ‘How Great I Am’ commercial. Purdy is seen running, snowboarding, ballroom dancing and riding a bike. She does not let her prosthetics define who she is or limit her. She embraces her unique situation by living boldly and with the right outlook anyone can achieve far more. Have a clear grasp of what differentiates you is what defines your value in a partnership. Be honest about your own weaknesses and gaps.

You know what makes your company standout but you also know what needs improvement. Isn’t that why you are looking to establish a partnership? Identify and utilize the strengths of each company. This will help you when you start negotiating terms to any agreement. It also helps determine your competitive advantage by having access to a partner’s resource that you did not have before. But seeking partners who are experts in a particular area will free you up to focus on your core competencies. You’ll be able to focus on the critical activities that keeps your business functioning.

Draft your MVP’s

Katy Perry and Missy Elliott may seem like an unlikely duo. In sharing the stage, both artists gave the audience a fresh new look at what can happen when you combine two very different genres of music but their performance together during half-time show was certainly memorable.

In one of our previous blog posts,Working together to achieve common goals through technology, we discuss how companies have to look outside of their comfort zone or what is considered “traditional” to find the best solution. Combining talent, knowledge and experience by forging a business partnership between unlikely companies has become more common. Companies are no longer seeing its competitor as the enemy but as a possible partner to help them their business goals.  It has become the norm for a client company to have multiple service providers that offer similar functions.  Additionally, they want to ensure that essential information is able to flow easily between all parties involved, and that the information can be easy accessible through a common technological system.

Stay in sync

Establish clear objectives. Making sure all parties are on the same page greatly improves your chances of a good outcome. During Katy Perry’s performance, she took the stage with two dancing sharks. Everything was great at first; the two sharks danced in unison alongside Perry but one of the sharks, the left shark began doing his own moves furiously. Left shark’s less than perfect moves took the media by storm. Understand what you want to get out of a partnership, and have a rock-solid grasp of your partner’s goals. This will ensure that everyone is aligned and has the same or complementary visions. Otherwise, you will look confused and uncoordinated just like the left shark did during Perry’s performance.

Communicate your game plan

Discover Card aired “Surprise” and if you’ve seen the first Discover commercial where the guy claims he hates surprises only to have a surprise waiting for him, then you probably know where this is going. Before the man opens the door, a Discovers representative is explaining how they keep communication open and transparent to reduce any unexpected surprises. Like the commercial, one likes surprises and the only way to eliminate misunderstandings is to communicate. This piece of advice seems obvious, but it’s so important because it reduces the risk of assumptions while encouraging you to say focused on the shared vision.

Communicate regularly; make sure you establish a good relationship and figure out your objectives. Because each person's expertise, motivation and personality are different, it's important to have this discussion before anything is committed contractually. Over time the needs and expectations between all parties involved may change, a clear dissolution or modification plan needs to be in writing also. Maintain contact with frequent check-ins to talk through any problems. This will keep confidence levels high on both sides, and means you can deal with any unexpected issues or changes swiftly.

Know when to walk away

The Esurance commercial is a great example, some partnerships don’t always pan out the way you think they will. Like any relationship, a business partnership often begins with enthusiasm and high expectations. It’s important to know who you will be working with before signing the dotted line; begin by finding out everything about who you are starting a partnership with, evaluate what you need help with, think about your clients and what type of partnership would benefit them and don’t forget to ask questions. The best time to address your concerns is at the beginning before emotions run high. Something may start off being the right fit but may not meet all your business needs. If your instincts tell you that something isn’t right, even when everything looks or sounds good, it’s smart to be cautious and walk away.

Whether it is through technology or collaborating with other service providers the goal is to work together to achieve a common purpose or undertake a specific task and to share risks, responsibilities, resources, competencies and benefits. Meaningful partnerships are the foundation for success. In an interview forMobility Magazine, Shawn Sweeney says, “At the end of the day, it really just comes down to trust and good people working together. I think that is where this whole partnership idea came from, because it really doesn’t matter what business you are in, or what company you represent, as long as you are willing to set all of that aside and work together in providing services and solutions that ultimately are best for the end client. That is when we know we've truly become an industry that is really working together as a whole.”

From organizing the Super Bowl to relocating transferees or international assignees, the end result is that everyone has a positive experience. Align yourself with the right partners and service providers, look outside of your specialty it will create a more efficient work environment by partnering together to provide higher customer satisfaction through a seamless relocation process.

Establishing partnerships with another company with other global mobility providers is what will set you apart from your competitors. Share your thoughts and experiences with us. We’d love to hear from you!

2015 is finally here! If April 15th comes around and you’re scrambling to locate your W2s, charitable contribution receipts, or health care expense records, you may want to consider tax season preparation as one of your resolutions for the New Year.

The IRS has very strict processes in place when it comes to reporting. There are many factors to consider when filing your taxes such as income, marital status, property ownership, number of dependents, annual charitable contributions and more.

Preparing for tax season in advance will help you minimize your tax burden and relieve some of the stress associated with filing taxes. Here are some essential things to keep in mind to get your maximum refund:

1) Keep records of your charitable contributions.

There are many charities that are qualified by the IRS. Some of these organizations include churches, nonprofit schools and hospitals, The Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Goodwill, Boy Scouts of America, and Girl Scouts of America. Donating items that you no longer need to a recognized charity will help you lower your tax bill.

The 1040 Form will be your best friend and your worst enemy; you will need to provide an itemized list of each item donated but it will be worth the trouble when your tax burden is lessened. Also, knowing that you’re doing a good deed for the community is a rewarding feeling.

2) Take care of your expenses in advance.

Make your payments on time! If you owe money for property tax, mortgage, student loans or medical bills, you may want pay those off as soon as possible so they can be deducted from your federal tax return. Squaring away your bills on time or in advance will allow you to claim them for the current year and might even reduce interest obligations.

3) Set up an Flexible Spending account (FSA)

Setting up a Flexible Spending Account can help individuals manage their spending and gives them an advantage on their taxes. The funds in your FSA can be used for essential health care expenses. At each pay period, some fixed amount of your earnings is transferred to the FSA and is not subject to payroll tax.

If the money in your FSA is not utilized by the end of the year, there is typically a “use it or lose it” rule, however, some companies offer flexible policies in which $500 or less can be carried over into the following year. Planning ahead and maintaining your account balance is essential to ensure that remaining FSA funds are not lost.

4) Make contributions to your Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRA) and don’t fall behind on your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)

Giving to your future self is the gift that keeps on giving! An Individual Retirement Arrangement or IRA is a personal savings account with a bank or insurance company that enables you to retire comfortably. After the age of 70 ½ you may no longer deduct payments to your IRA on the 1040 form.

Once you’ve hit 70 ½, you must take withdrawals from your 401K and your IRA- these payments are known as Required Minimum Distribution or RMD.  The minimum required amount to withdrawal is decided by the federal table standard. If RMD is not submitted, you may face additional fines from the IRS.

5) Make an appointment with your accountant.

Year-end tax can be a heavy burden to bear if you are negligent in planning ahead. If you set aside time to meet with your tax preparer semi-annually, you won’t have to worry about whether or not your taxes are being taken care of.

A little extra preparation goes a long way when your taxes are due. With over a quarter of a century of experience and a dedicated team of tax and expense experts, Orion Mobility can be trusted to deliver accurate results for your company.

The end of the year is always an eventful time for accounting and payroll departments. 2014 was especially exciting and the start of 2015 brings a number of state tax changes effective January 1. As a result, four states are decreasing their flat withholding rates.  Not only does this affect withholding on wages, it also impacts supplemental pay, such as bonuses.

State marginal tax rate changes (typically used for year-end gross-up calculations):

ARKANSAS – most rates reduced by 0.1% including top rate from 7.0% to 6.9%

D.C. – table expanded from 4 to 5 brackets;  top rate unchanged at 8.95%

ILLINOIS – flat rate reduced from 5.0% to 3.75%

INDIANA – flat rate reduced from 3.4% to 3.3%

KANSAS – top rate reduced from 4.8% to 4.6%

MASSACHUSETTS – flat rate reduced from 5.2% to 5.15%

NORTH CAROLINA – flat rate reduced from 5.8% to 5.75%

Have questions? Email us atcontactus@orionmobility.com!

For more information on tax updates, subscribe to our blog to get the latest industry and tax news and make sure to follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

The new local and state taxes have been announced. There have been many changes in SDI and SUI, check below for the information you need.

ALASKA SUI

The cutoff is increasing from $37,400 to $38,700 with the rate decreasing from 0.62% to 0.57%.

CALIFORNIA SDI

The cutoff is increasing from $101,636 to $104,378 with the rate decreasing from 1.0% to 0.9%.

MARYLAND COUNTY TAXES

Below are the 2014/2015 Maryland County withholding rates.  Carroll County lowered its rate from 3.04% to 3.03%.  Also, Charles County’s rate is now 3.03%.

NEW JERSEY TDI/SUI/FLI

The TDI, SUI, and FLI cutoffs are increasing from $31,500 to $32,000.  The TDI/SUI/WF rate is decreasing from 0.805% to 0.675% (UI 0.3825%;  DI 0.25%;  WF 0.0425%).  The Family Leave Insurance (FLI) rate is decreasing from 0.10% to 0.09%.

NEW YORK CITY SUPPLEMENTAL WITHHOLDING RATE

The rate remains at 4.25% for 2015.

PENNSYLVANIA UE

The rate remains at 0.07% for 2015.

PHILADELPHIA RESIDENT/NON-RESIDENT RATE

The resident rate remains unchanged at 3.92% and the non-resident rate at 3.4915%.

RHODE ISLAND TDI

The cutoff is increasing from $62,700 to $64,200 with the rate remaining at 1.2%.

YONKERS RESIDENT RATE

The resident withholding rate is increasing from 1.443% to 1.61135%.  The non-resident rate remains unchanged at 0.5%.

Have questions? Email us atcontactus@orionmobility.com!

For more information on tax updates, subscribe to our blog to get the latest industry and tax news and make sure to follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

The relocation industry has been on the edge of their seats waiting to hear whether Congress would extend the expiring tax provisions. If they hadn’t been extended, the loss would have  negatively impacted how employers move their employees and the mobility process of moving workers. EvenWorldwide ERC®submitted a letter urging Congress to extend tax relief for at least two years.

On Tuesday, Congress gave final approval to the bill that would extend the expired tax breaks through the end of year. The bill now goes to President Barack Obama who is expected to sign it. This extension allows taxpayers to claim them on their 2014 tax returns. However, after this year their fate will once again be uncertain.

Unless extended again for 2015, how will these expiring tax breaks affect the relocation industry?

Transferees who need to make a short sale to accept a transfer can no longer exclude primary residence cancellation of debt from gross income. The debt forgiveness on paying income taxes on primary residences expired in 2013. This means transferees might not be able to move if the amount of their mortgage that is written off becomes taxable to them.For those buying a new home they will not be able to deduct new mortgage insurance premiums. Typically, homeowners who have less than 20% equity typically pay for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), which was deductible in 2012 and 2013.Taxpayers who itemize deductions have previously been permitted to subtract either their state income tax or their state sales tax in calculating their federal taxable income, but the sales-tax deduction was never made permanent.Companies that do business overseas are looking at losing billions in tax credits.  These tax credits allow businesses to write off capital investments, and allow global multinational corporations to move cash between foreign subsidiaries without triggering a U.S. tax liability.  Without the benefit of these tax provisions, global business expansion of multinational corporations will be financially challenged to continue or increase necessary global talent mobility activity.

As 2014 comes to end, the question of whether passage of the tax extenders bill so late in the year will force the IRS to delay when you can start filing your 2014 taxes, which typically begins in mid-January. How do you see this impacting your company and transferees?

Have tax questions? Concerned about your current policies? Click here tocontact usto find out how Orion Mobility can help.

For more information on state, federal and global tax updates, subscribe to the Orion Mobility blog or follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

Today, the IRS announced the 2015 mileage rates. The business mileage rate has increased from $0.56/mile in2014to $0.575/mile in 2015.

The deductible final move mileage rate was lowered from $0.235/mile in 2014 to $0.23/mile in 2015.  The charitable mileage rate remains unchanged at $0.14/mile.

For more information on state and global tax updates, subscribe to the Orion Mobility blog or follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

Source:IRS

Trick or treat? A little extra preparation will help your company avoid a relocation nightmare. Missing a single detail of relocation planning can delay the process, cost the company hundreds or thousands of dollars or even worse… your employee can become dissatisfied.

Relocation can be dreadful for everyone involved. Whether it’s an international move or just a domestic move, asking an employee to rearrange their life is a huge deal; some people may see it as a new opportunity but others might be reluctant and hesitant.

Here are 4 tips to make the relocation process less scary:

1. Weigh out your options to minimize the burden.

Moving to an unfamiliar city can be terrifying for a lot of people. Be sure to consider each candidate’s personal needs in order to choose the right transferee for the new position.

Allow employees to visit their new city before they commit to moving; this will relieve some of the pressure of agreeing to relocate.

When selecting vendors, it is very important to do your research. Every employee relocation process is unique and you must hire the right vendors for each individual move.

2. Organization will reduce the chances of a relocation disaster!

Creating to-do lists is essential to make sure no details are overlooked or forgotten. Additionally, when it comes time to pack everything up, labeling each box will save employees a lot of time searching for things they may need.

International moves can be freighting because of currency and cultural differences. Foreign countries typically use foreign currencies; when exchanging goods and money, it is important to know the value of what is being traded. Cultural trainings are available for employees to become familiar with the norms of the host country and will prepare them for their move.

3. Keep in touch- Don’t feed your employees to the werewolves.

Follow up with your transferees; see how they like their new home, if they’re able to focus in their new environment, what they did over the weekend. Contacting them on a regular basis will help maintain employee satisfaction and retention.

4. Don’t let the tax portion haunt you as you approach year-end.

It is important to stay up to date with federal, state, and local tax regulations which are constantly changing. One minor filing mistake can be extremely damaging to your budget. Relocation tax, gross-ups and audits must be properly executed by a tax professional in order to avoid additional financial penalties from the IRS.

Relocation is a very drastic change for employees; it’s not just a bunch of “hocus pocus”. Spare your HR department from a relocation horror story and outsource to a relocation management company.

Readers are welcome to share their relocation horror stories and advice by commenting below.Have a safe and fun Halloween!

The Social Security Administration has announced today the new 2015 FICA Wage base will increase by 1.3% to $118,500 from $117,000 in 2014.In 2014, the wage basethreshold increased by 2.9%. Of the estimated 168 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2015, about 10 million high wage workers will see the maximum of $7,347 in Social Security taxes taken out of their paychecks in 2015, up $93 from 2014.

Have questions? Email us atcontactus@orionmobility.com!

For more information on tax updates, subscribe to our blog to get the latest industry and tax news and make sure to follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

By:Michelle Sandlin, Contributing Writer & Columnist

Collaboration and strategic partnerships among vendors makes it possible to bring increased value to clients and customers, by tapping into the talents and service offerings of likeminded companies that offer a complimentary product or service for the benefit of a mutual client.

Other partnerships and business relationships are also sometimes formed between unlikely companies.  It is becoming more prevalent for competitors to find themselves facing each other, but without facing off in an all out battle to win the customer.  Service providers are beginning to understand that it often becomes necessary to embrace a working relationship with the competition.  This is a bit of a paradigm shift from what we have grown used to, where you are meant to keep everything very close to the chest, and even think of the competition (at times) as the enemy.

This is no longer a viable attitude in today’s global business climate.  The reason is that customers and clients expect to have their venders and service partners working together to help them in achieving their business goals.

Companies also choose to work with service partners that will put the company’s interests first, without consideration for whether or not they should really be collaborating with their competitors.  Service providers that embrace such relationships, instead of fearing them, are able to bring a higher level of value and overall customer service and satisfaction to their clients and customers.

It has become the norm for a client company to have multiple service providers that offer the same or similar functions.  Additionally, they want to ensure that essential information is able to flow easily between all parties involved, and that the information can be easy accessible through a common system.

Thankfully, technology is making such collaboration and the need to have instant access to a lot of information much easier.  Gone are the days of having multiple systems or programs in order to access and track the different pieces of the relocation puzzle.

Today, companies demand the efficiency of a single system that will serve as a portal for shared data, and allow connectivity between the company and their various service partners.  They want web-based platforms that make it possible for multiple users to be able to login and access real-time information from anywhere, at anytime, on any device.

Companies like Orion Mobility offer such solutions.  They are able to provide the necessary tools and customizable technology solutions that allow companies to stay ahead of the curve, while maximizing internal efficiencies.

As technology continues to impact the way we all do business, it is also important to hear from the experts about where we are and where technology will take us in the future. That is the premise of the technology session that I will be moderating at the upcomingOrion Mobility 27th Annual Global Relocation & Tax Conference.  It will be held on October 7th (the day before the Worldwide ERC Global Workforce Symposium) in Chicago.

Please register and join me for a look at the technology trends and advancements that are impacting the relocation industry today, and what we can expect in the future.

Anyone who has visited our website in the last few months is probably aware that Orion Mobility hosts an Annual Global Relocation and Tax Conference where industry experts come together to share, learn and discuss industry trends. We will spare you the details about the conference this time BUT we would just like to say that it would not be possible to hold such an informative and productive event without the generous contribution of all of our Sponsors.

This year we have three Gold Sponsors who coincidentally, also sponsored last year’s conference! Our 2014 Gold Sponsors include Armstrong Relocation & Companies, Associated Attorney Title & Closing Company, P.C. and Promisor Relocation. Their repeated support for the conference is a display of dedication and commitment and we can’t express how much we appreciate your partnerships.

Armstrong Relocation & Companiesis a provider of international moving and relocation services and offers unique relocation programs that are configured to individual company objectives.

Associated Attorney Title & Closing Company, P.C.offers title insurance, settlement solutions and legal services within the relocation and real estate industry. With firms located in North-Eastern United States, Associated Attorney Title & Closing Company is able to serve the US and Canada. The company is recognized for their accuracy and reliability.

Promisor Relocationis a global relocation management company that provides international and domestic relocation program solutions, in addition to expense management and consulting services.

We are also excited to introduce a new Lunch Sponsor this year! We don’t mean to confuse our priorities but we’re going to be very honest, one of our favorite perks of attending conferences is the food. Our guests will enjoy a catered lunch courtesy of Hilldrup!

Hilldrupis a provider of global moving services for corporations, government agencies and individual employees. They will help you plan your entire move from start to finish; packing, storing, delivering, unpacking belongings has never been easier.

After a long day of listening to relocation, legal and tax industry professionals talk about their experiences and best practices,you may feel like you need a drink… or two… Thanks to Runzheimer International’s generous platinum sponsorship of the conference, you will be able to enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres at our cocktail reception following the conference!

Runzheimeroffers employee mobility management services to help companies create custom reports, develop vehicle plans, reduce costs and improve productivity. Runzheimer even gives back to the community through their Runzheimer Foundation. They are an amazing company and we are honored to have them as our platinum sponsor.

Stick around after the conference and enjoy each other’s company over a few cocktails, courtesy of Runzheimer International.

Thank you for your continued support throughout the years, we are looking forward to having each of you at the conference. Learn more about the speakers participating in this year's conference, check out our blog postWhat to Expect at the 27th Annual Global Relocation & Tax Conference.

ByMichelle Sandlin, Contributing Writer & Columnist

Successful relocation management begins with the careful planning and consideration of the many elements that are involved in the relocation process.  It doesn’t matter whether an employee is moving across the state, across the country or across the world, there are many challenges facing both the company and the employee.  As such, companies need to be able to rely on their partners to provide the resources and assistance needed every step of the way to ensure a successful relocation.

Companies also need to be able to implement cost-effect and cost-saving measures within their relocation programs without compromising the benefits or services provided to the employee.

While it’s easy for employees and their families to get lost in the excitement of the move itself, there are also some fundamental things that need to be addressed before, during and after the relocation.

One of the most daunting and often frustrating aspects of relocation can be the preparation and subsequent payment of taxes.  Let’s face it; taxes are one of those subjects that people rarely like to think about until they have to.  However, when it comes to relocation, taxes should be one of the first considerations in the planning process, otherwise the company and/or the employee could end up paying higher taxes than necessary.  Waiting until year-end to even think about taxes can have costly repercussions.

In many instances, employers end up paying under or over the gross-up amount needed to make an employee whole.  In either case, paying incorrect gross-up amounts can negatively impact the bottom line for the company and the employee when it comes time to paying taxes.

The best way to safeguard against this is for companies to stay up-to-date on all of the latest tax information, technological innovations and advances, and to be aware of the various current relocation trends and issues affecting our industry.

Companies also need to have the right service partners in place who can offer comprehensive expense management solutions, tax and auditing services, software solutions, and consulting services to help them meet their operational challenges head-on.

On October 7th, Orion Mobility will hold its 27th Annual Global Relocation & Tax Conference in Chicago.  Each year they bring together industry leaders who present on the compelling topics that are most important to relocation professionals throughout the country.

This year the program will include sessions on:

Relocation Tax Issues: Withholding, Gross-up & Cost Savings

(Presented by: Quentin Hormel and Peter Fonseca, Orion Mobility)

International Tax & Payroll Issues

(Presented by: Sean Watts, Ernst & Young)

The Advancements & Future of Relocation Technology

(Moderated by: Michelle Sandlin; Panelists: Frank Bodengraven, AIRINC; Kris Tibbetts, Runzheimer; Shawn Sweeney, Orion Mobility)

Getting Ready for Year-End

(Presented by: Peter Fonseca, Orion Mobility)

Hot Topics & Trends in Global Relocation

(Presented by: Holly Clontz, Ingersoll Rand; Wilma Van der Veer, Global Relocation Services; Sean Watts, Ernst & Young)

New HUD 1 Form, Mortgage Fraud, Loan Estimates & Closing Disclosure

(Presented by: Jay Hershman, Baillie & Hershman P.C.)

Orion Mobility's Annual Conference is part of their continued commitment to keeping you up-to-date on the ever-changing issues and trends that are at the forefront of the relocation industry.  Each year they bring new and timely information and present it in a way that you can take back with you and implement within your organization.

Please click on the following link for more information and to register for the Conference:27th Annual Global Relocation & Tax Conference.

We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!

Let’s talk about relocation! Let’s include tax, payroll, legal and technology while we are at it. I could write it all out in an extremely lengthy post for you, but I’ll spare you from reading about almost every topic influencing the industry and what’s to expect in 2015.

For those of us in the relocation industry it’s always good to stay informed on current trends. That is why Orion Mobility holds an annual conference, to provide industry professional with the tools and resources they need. It’s a chance to get upfront answers to your questions and leave with knowledge of best practices to take back to your office.

Here is a look at our speakers and sessions that will be held at our27th Annual Global Relocation & Tax Conference:

Orion Mobility’s Peter Fonseca and Quentin Hormel will be starting off the conference. During this opening session, they will be discussing issues that relocation professionals are facing regarding tax withholding, managing gross-ups and providing cost saving techniques that are easy to implement.

Our next session will be led by Sean Watts from Ernest & Young. He will be tackling the hard hitting questions involving international taxes and payroll issues. With more than 20 years of experience, Sean brings extensive knowledge in the design and implementation of payroll, assignment management, tax cost projection systems, international assignment compensation strategies, and policy development.

Where will technology take us next? It can be hard to keep with so many technological advancements and how it affects the relocation industry. During our afternoon session, our moderator, Michelle Sandlin will be opening up the discussion to relocation tech professionals to see what trends and advancements are impacting us today and what to expect in the future.

Year-end is right around the corner and what better way to get prepared than to join us for Peter’s session at this year’s conference. Get all the tips and tricks you need for a success transition into year-end.

Stay up to date on what is happening in the industry during our Hot Topics & Trends session. Be aware of different factors that are influencing global assignments, compensation, immigration and destination services. Our speakers will be sharing their experiences and insights during this interactive session.

Jay Hershman had one of the most popular sessions at last year’s conference and we are excited to have him speak again this year.  With a background in relocation and real estate law his experience and knowledge brings a new perspective to the relocation industry. Jay will cover topics such as the new HUD 1 form, loans, disclosure rules and all the latest scams targeting real estate.

We wanted to thank all of our speakers for participating in this year's conference, we hope to see everyone there for a productive experience.

Throughout the year, there are tax changes to sales tax, income tax and lets not forget federal tax. Familiarize yourself with fluctuating state tax rates, the amount of brackets it has, which income levels fall under these brackets, what status to file under, whether or not there are exemptions and finally, some states have no income tax at all. Tax regulations change frequently and it's important for companies and transferees to know what the current rates are.

Below, we provide the most updated tax data available, on current state tax rates and income brackets (based on filing single), and personal exemptions for individuals filing single or married. We also included information on the most recent state changes and what to expect this upcoming tax season. The biggest change comes from North Carolina. For a detailed view of each state, clickherefor the interactive version:

Staying current on every tax update can be an exhausting task. AtOrion Mobility, we specialize in taxes so you don't have to. Whether its through ourinteractive softwareor throughour line of services, we are proud to provide innovative solutions to relocation and tax professionals. Our tax and software experts are always updating our reloviewsComplete system to feature all the latest updates and changes.

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Ontario passed a bill into law on July 24th that increases the personal income tax rates for taxable incomes over $150,000 in Ontario for 2014.   For taxable incomes between $150,000 and $220,000, the tax rate has increased from 11.16% to 12.16%, and for taxable incomes over $220,000, the tax rate has increased from 11.16% to 13.16%.

To make up for the lower rates used during the first eight months of the year, Ontario has incorporated higher rates in its withholding tables for the period 9/1-12/31/14.   For taxable incomes between $150,000 and $220,000, the withholding rate will be 14.16%, and for taxable incomes between $220,000 and $514,090, the rate will be 17.16%.

In other words, this means higher tax liabilities and higher gross-ups for high-income transferees in the province.

Have questions? Email us atcontactus@orionmobility.com!

For more information on tax updates, subscribe to our blog to get the latest industry and tax news and make sure to follow us on Twitter@Orion_Mobility.

When moving, you must take every “family member” into consideration- including the pets!

Do your research prior to the move, pet laws and regulations vary from state to state, be sure to familiarize yourself with leash laws and required permits for exotic animals. If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord or property owner that pets are allowed. Be sure to get copies of pet’s health records and a recently updated health certificate from your veterinarian. Also, inquire about if your existing vet has any recommendations for a new vet in the area you’re moving to. Make sure your pets are wearing collars and have corresponding ID tags during the moving process.

No matter how you travel to your new home, there are certain things to take into consideration. A portable kennel is essential for safe transportation. Carriers must accommodate the size of the pet so it has room to get comfortable and move around, it also must have proper ventilation and flooring for any accidents that may occur. It is very important to bring a supply of water from your house for your pets; foreign water may upset an animal’s stomach or cause sickness. Also, bring plenty of food; you don’t want to be struggling to find a pet store in an unfamiliar town on move-in day. In an effort to avoid problems and keep your pets comfortable, pack a leash, food and water dishes, medications and chew toys.

If you’re traveling by vehicle, research your route before you leave. Not all hotel policies allow pets; contact the hotel desk to confirm that pets are welcome. Also bring an ample supply of newspaper and wee-wee pads to ensure that you won’t encounter an accidental carpet replacement charge at check-out.

If it is possible, driving to your new home is probably the best option for pet transportation. You will have the comfort of knowing that your pet is safe at all times and it is much less expensive than air transportation. Make sure you stop frequently so your pet can exercise. When you’re in motion, activate child lock on your vehicle’s windows so your pets cannot escape. Keep animals such as cats, birds, rabbits and reptiles in kennels or proper travel containers. Try to avoid leaving pets alone in your car, if you must leave them unattended, be sure to lock the doors and crack the windows about an inch and a half for ventilation.

If you’re flying to your new home, make airline reservations so you and your pets arrive at the destination together. Your pets must be kept in a USDA and IATA-approved pet container. You must label all pet containers “ LIVE ANIMAL” and “THIS SIDE UP” so the handler knows exactly how to treat the cargo. Most airlines have very unique and strictly enforced regulations when it comes to pet transportation.

Adjusting to a new home takes a little time- even for pets. In our previous post aboutGetting Kids Excited About Relocating, we discuss the importance of adjusting to a new environment. Be sure to continue to feed and walk your pets at routine hours. Reserve a designated area in the kitchen for your pet’s food and water dishes and find a place for all pet accommodations such as their carrier, litterbox, scratching post, and toys. Examine your new property; make sure there are fences so you won’t have to keep a constant eye on your pets to prevent them from escaping. Keep your outdoor cats on the property for a while so they can become familiar with the house; gradually allow them to spend more time outside until they are ready to be on their own.

The process of moving is so demanding, you might overlook a few very important things, like how you’re going to transport your pets- Orion Mobility is always willing to provide some advice so you don’t forget anything during your relocation process! Comment below to share your own experiences traveling and moving with pets!

Moving can be a daunting task for anyone- regardless of age. Kids in particular typically face difficulty transitioning to a new home. Children are often very set in their routine; most have a dedicated time where they do daily tasks such as brushing teeth, getting on the bus, taking naps and most importantly, snack time. Unfortunately, moving disrupts their routine and often results in a cranky child. There are ways to approach the move that actually get your children excited for a new start!

Let the kids know as soon as you decide that you’re moving. Sit the whole family down together and let them know that you’re moving because of work and you’re very excited about your new job. As a family, talk about how you’re feeling about leaving your hometown; encourage them to express their feelings and exchange positive memories of living in your house.

Prior to moving, give the kids a notebook so they are able to exchange phone numbers and email addresses with class mates. Create a photo album of all of their friends and have them write messages and draw pictures.

Get kids involved with the moving process. Show them pictures of potential houses or apartments, even take them to see the new home. If possible, let them choose which room they would like and what color they want to paint their new room. When deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, consult the kids and make sure they won’t miss anything you’re not planning on taking with you. Host a moving sale; use the proceeds from the sale to buy something beneficial for the whole family, this will get the kids are motivated and excited for the tag sale. Ask your kids for their assistance with minor tasks such as labeling and packing boxes, and be sure to show them appreciation for their all their hard work.

We recently posted8 Simple Tips for Moving this Summer, one of the important factors is to keep consistency between your old and new home to help kids feel comfortable throughout the transition. Once you arrive at the new home, unpack the kid’s rooms first and try to keep the positioning of furniture consistent, this gives them a sense of familiarity and comfort. Take the opportunity to explore the neighborhood together and introduce yourselves to the new neighbors. Take a calendar with you and plan weekend activities such mini golf, visits to museums, bowling alleys and trips to the zoo. As they make friends, invite their friends to join you in your weekend escapades.

Each day, encourage children to talk about their experiences at school and communicate about how they’re adjusting. Exchange email addresses with teachers; ask them to update you on how your child is getting along with others and participating in classroom activities.

Think of moving as an opportunity to start fresh. You’re all experiencing this transition together and you’ll grow closer because of it. Spend less time sorting through all of your moving receipts and spend more time with your kids- Use Orion Mobility’sreloviewsComplete™ softwarefor all of your relocation expense tracking! Feel free comment below with your own tips and advice to help kids transition to a new home!

Do you like the rush of adrenaline that comes when you’re faced with a deadline? Do you usually wait until the last minute to file your tax returns? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might want to reconsider waiting too long to file your tax returns.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, 20 to 25 percent of all Americans wait until the last two weeks before the deadline to prepare their returns and another 7 percent file for an extension. Now, imagine that you’re playing poker or blackjack and the IRS is the dealer. Waiting to file might sound like a good idea at the time but now you’re finding that you’ve been dealt a bad hand. That’s because with every passing day that you don’t file your tax returns you decrease your chances of coming out on top.

Calling Your Bluff

If you think filing later somehow gives you an advantage over the IRS, remember who you’re up against. Sending your taxes later will only hurt your chances of a higher refund. Studies show that more errors are found in tax returns that were submitted late then those filed earlier in the year. These errors increase your chances of being audited, having to pay more or miss out on valuable deductions. Take your time and double check your work.

Double Down in Price

By now you’ve seen and heard every commercial on getting your taxes done with this company or the other. They all promise that if you choose them they will get you the most money back. But what they’re not telling you is that they increase the price of their services several weeks before the deadline. On average you will pay 30 to 50 percent more to get your taxes done than someone who filed theirs in January. Shop around and search for the best deal available.

The House Always Wins

If you’ve run out of time to file your taxes, don’t worry you’re not alone. Around 8 million people file an extension with the IRS each year. The extension provides you an additional six months to file your taxes. Here’s where the IRS ups the ante. When filing for an extension itwill onlyprovide extra time to file your paperwork but it doesn’t extend the time you have to pay. If you need to file for an extension, you can file your extension by submittingto the IRS by April 15, 2014. If you owe money, that is also due on April 15th. Include a check when you file for an extension. Not filing your taxes has bigger consequences and comes with a hefty price tag. It’s to your advantage when you take action.

High Roller

Did you know that the longer you wait to file you lower your odds are of a pay-off! Your chances of getting a refund check are higher when you file early. According to the IRS, over 70 percent of returns filed before April 1 receive refunds, while 61 percent of late filers end up owing money. If that isn’t incentive enough, the IRS is averaging about 90 percent of filers getting a refund and that the average Federal refund amount is almost $3,000.

Rolling Snake Eyes

If you think being audited by the IRS is the worst thing that can happen to you, think again! Imagine filing your tax returns, then receiving a notice (not your refund check) from the IRS saying that more than one tax return has been filed, there is an unknown balance due, and records indicate you received your refund or the IRS records show wages from an unknown employer. If you receive one of these notices, chances are that someone has assumed your identity and filed your tax returns in order to steal your refund check.has dramatically increased in the last couple of years. The IRS was processing 650,000 identity theft cases as of last September – a 650 percent increase since 2008.

If you still haven’t filed your taxes yet, what are you waiting for?! File them now rather than later. No one wants to leave money on the table or leave feeling defeated after filing their taxes. The stakes are too high with every day that you wait. So when next year rolls around don’t hesitate to file your taxes and enjoy your refund earlier. You’ll be happy you did.

And with that may the odds be ever in your favor!

Did you recently relocate and have tax questions? Contact us today or follow us on twitter

January 31st kicks off this year’s tax season which means you could possibly be at risk of having your identity stolen. Tax identity theft is one of the most rapidly growing scams in the US. The FTC reported 2012 marked the first year which they received more than 2 million complaints overall, and 18 percent (369,132) were related to identity theft. Of those, more than 43 percent related to tax- or wage-related fraud.

What is tax identity theft?Tax identity theft is when someone uses your Social Security number to file a tax return meaning that when you go to file your tax return, you’ll receive a rejection notice from the IRS stating more than one tax return has been filed. Your records indicate you received wages from an unknown employer, have a balance due, refund offset or have had collection actions taken against you for a year you did not file a tax return. Chances are someone has filed on your behalf in order to steal your refund check.

Identity theft and fraud is one of the largest crimes happening today and continuously growing! From the Target credit card scandal to mortgage fraud, it feels like there is no escaping it. However there are ways to avoid it:

File your tax returns early:Those who file their tax returns later in the filing season have higher chances of discovering that two returns have been filed under one Social Security number. Gather all your materials you’ll need to file and start the filing process earlier. If you do receive a notice from the IRS, take action immediately and fill out the.

Protect yourself online:If you file your taxes electronically, make sure to use a secure Internet connection or network. Use difficult passwords and change them periodically. Try to avoid using any personal information like your phone number, first/last name, pet’s name, DOB, last four digits of your social or combinations of simple words and number combinations. Create strong passwords that combine letters, numbers and special characters. (Example: 0R!on)

Protect your financial and personal information:Secure all of your documentation and information at home. Keep your passport, bank records and passwords in a safe location. Every twelve months, check your credit report and monthly look over any bank or credit card statements for suspicious activity. Have a trusted tax preparer look over your information and remember to obtain a copy of your return with their signature.

Tax identity theft is a growing problem and by following these tips you minimize your chances of this happening to you. The IRS has taken numerous measures this year and they’re endlessly researching new ways to protect taxpayer’s identities. For more information visit the IRS – Identity Protection page.

Did you recently relocate and have tax questions? Contact us today or follow us on twitter

Sources:

IRS –

IRS –

Tax season is here and the new local and state taxes are in. There have been many changes in SDI and SUI, check below for the information you need.

ALASKA SUI:

The cutoff is increasing from $36,900 to $37,400 with the rate decreasing from 0.68% to 0.62%.

CALIFORNIA SDI:

The cutoff is increasing from $100,880 to $101,636 with the rate remaining at 1.0%.

NEW JERSEY TDI/SUI/FLI:

The TDI, SUI, and FLI cutoffs are increasing from $30,900 to $31,500The TDI/SUI/WF rate is increasing from 0.785% to 0.805% (UI 0.3825%; DI 0.38%; WF 0.0425%)The Family Leave Insurance (FLI) rate remains at 0.10%

NEW YORK CITY SUPPLEMENTAL WITHHOLDING RATE:

The rate remains at 4.25% for 2014.

MARYLAND COUNTY TAXES:

In the chart provided are the 2013/2014 Maryland County withholding rates.

Ann Arundel County is increasing from 2.49% to 2.56%Caroline County is increasing from 2.63% to 2.73%Carroll County is decreasing from 3.05% to 3.04%Charles County is increasing from 2.90% to 3.03%Talbot County is increasing from 2.25% to 2.40%Wicomico County is increasing from 3.10% to 3.20%

PENNSYLVANIA UE:

The rate remains at 0.07% for 2014.

PHILADELPHIA RESIDENT/NON-RESIDENT RATE:

Since September 7th 2013, the resident rate remains at 3.924% (scheduled to decrease to 3.92% starting 7/1/14)The non-resident rate remains at 3.495% (scheduled to decrease to 3.4915% starting 7/1/14).

RHODE ISLAND TDI:

The cutoff is increasing from $61,400 to $62,700 with the rate remaining at 1.2%.

For more information on state and global tax updates, please check the Orion Mobility blog or follow us on Twitter.

Need advice or have questions regarding your taxes or recent move? Contact us today.