Stephen Fishman
J.D. · USC Gould School of Law
Tax Rules for Gambling Income and Losses
Learn the rules for reporting gambling income -- and losses -- on your tax return. ... READ MORE
Congratulations, You Just Won a Jackpot! Now Pay Up
When you play the lottery, mostly you think about the the cash you'll win. However, the federal and state government wins as well because your winnings are taxable income. ... READ MORE
Are Attorneys' Fees Tax Deductible?
Most personal legal fees are no longer deductible under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. ... READ MORE
How to Challenge Your Property Tax Assessment
Property assessment is an inexact science. You might have grounds to challenge your bill and save money. ... READ MORE
If You Haven't Filed Your Taxes In Years
You may be in the same boat as many people who neglect to file their federal income taxes. At first, you probably expected to catch up when financial times were better. Now, with years of delinquent taxes piled up, the task seems too daunting to tackle. ... READ MORE
A Guide to Breach of Contract Claims
If you are starting or buying a business, you should know something about contracts, including how and when contracts are breached. ... READ MORE
Deduction for Business Bad Debts
You're in business to make money. That's hard to do when you're not paid by your customers for goods you've sold them. It may not be a total loss, though. You may be able to take a deduction for business bad debts. Generally, you can take this deduction only if you can show: The debt is a bona fide ... READ MORE
Deducting Small Business Start-Up Costs
In most cases, there's nothing "small" about the expenses you have when you start a small business. Dozens of expenses pop up long before you actually open the doors for business. You need a place to work, supplies, furniture and probably employees. For the most part, the expenses you have at start-up ... READ MORE
Breach of Partnership Agreements and Expulsion
You can expel a partner for violating the partnership agreement and other reasons. Learn when you can and can’t expel a partner and what happens after the fact. ... READ MORE
The Basics of Professional Corporations
Learn about professional corporations, including who can form them, the limited liability protection they offer, and how they are taxed. ... READ MORE