BW INSIGHTS

Don't Be in the Wrong: How to Avoid Copyright Infringement

By Jordan Meggison-Decker | 01.10.2023

If you have ever been on either the sending or receiving end of a Cease-and-Desist Letter or a Copyright Infringement Notice, you know that it is not a pleasant feeling in either instance. Copyright issues pop up every day in our Internet driven lives and knowing the copyright basics can ensure that you stay on the right side of the law when... Read More

Three BrownWinick Attorneys Get Promoted to Members of the Firm

By BrownWinick | 01.03.2023

Recently, BrownWinick elevated three attorneys to the position of members at the firm. BrownWinick would like to congratulate Kirsten Johanson, Samantha Norris, and Jonathan Soike on this achievement and for their continued pursuit of client service.   “Each of these three was selected for admission as members because of their commitment to the... Read More

Affordable Care Act Deadline Extension

By Cynthia Boyle Lande & Maggie Simonson Schild | 12.19.2022

On December 15, 2022, the Internal Revenue Service issued final regulations extending deadlines for providing certain information statements under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The extension applies to Forms 1095-C, filed and issued by applicable large employers (ALEs), who are subject to the ACA Employer Mandate. The extension also applies to... Read More

Government Relations Update - 12-15-22

By BrownWinick | 12.19.2022

The Revenue Estimating Conference (“REC”) comprised of a three-member panel (Kraig Paulsen, David Underwood, and Jennifer Acton) met Wednesday (12.14.22) as part of their standard schedule of meetings to estimate future state revenues. A summary of the information discussed during the meeting is below, along with the attached spreadsheet... Read More

What is the Purpose of a Trust?

By Ingrid Johnson | 12.06.2022

There are two main types of trusts—Revocable/Living Trusts, and Irrevocable Trusts. This article provides a very short overview of the different purposes of a trust and why you would set one up.  Trusts can provide privacy, coordination of assets, asset protection from third-party creditors, gift and estate tax savings, protect beneficiaries from... Read More

Estate Planning During and After Divorce: What You Should Know

By Ingrid Johnson | 12.01.2022

If you are going through a divorce, there is probably a lot on your mind. One thing you may not be thinking about is your estate plan. If you name your spouse in your estate planning documents, you may want to consider making some changes. This article explains some key estate planning items to consider during and after your divorce.  Estate... Read More

UPDATE: IRS Extends Deadlines for Certain Additional Required Amendments to Retirement Plans and IRAs

By Maggie Simonson Schild & Cynthia Boyle Lande | 11.29.2022

Earlier this year, we shared an update on certain retirement plan updates originally required to be adopted this year. At that time, we noted that some amendment deadlines had been delayed, but other amendments were still required this year. On September 26, 2022, the IRS issued Notice 2022-45, extending the deadline for qualified plans, 403(b)... Read More

Annual Minutes - Are They Worth It? YES.

By Joe Leo | 11.28.2022

As we head into the end of the year, you are likely being bombarded with reminders of house-cleaning items you should address before the calendar turns over. Reviewing your insurance coverage, evaluating your healthcare options for next year, reviewing your retirement accounts, and scheduling time with your tax preparer are all important, and... Read More

Do You Need to File a Gift Tax Return?

By Ingrid Johnson | 11.22.2022

The holidays are upon us and even though the holidays may mean more than packages, boxes, and bags, gifting during the holidays can put a twinkle in your eye and thaw your heart as the world slowly freezes over for the winter.     But have your dreams of sugar plum fairies been interrupted by the unwelcome thought of gift taxes?  No need to bah... Read More

BrownWinick Hosts Second Wills for Veterans Event

By BrownWinick | 11.17.2022

In honor of Veterans Day,  BrownWinick held its second “Wills for Veterans” event to benefit Iowa veterans. Several attorneys and staff partnered on this event to provide complimentary basic wills and powers of attorney documents for 30 Iowa veterans and their spouses.   “These Veterans and their spouses have served our country with honor. Finding... Read More