Jack Hawkins articles

I just learned about the Augusta Rule. Can I really use this to pay no tax on rental income throughout the year?

The Augusta Rule allows homeowners to rent their home for up to 14 days per year tax-free. Learn how business owners use this IRS rule, the requirements to qualify, and whether this tax strategy could reduce your tax bill.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My family wants a big dog. I've heard that I can claim a Great Pyrenees as a livestock dog on my taxes. Is that true?

Can you claim a Great Pyrenees as a livestock guardian dog on your taxes? Learn when working farm dogs qualify as business deductions—and when they’re just big fluffy pets.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Two female friends sitting on sofa and arguing with each other. Frie

My father and I built an incredibly successful business together. He passed away suddenly, and my brother is claiming half the profits. What now?

My father and I built a successful business together, but after his sudden death my brother is claiming half the profits. Here’s what business owners need to know about inheritance, ownership rights, and resolving family disputes.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I want to install smart switches and smart lights in my home to save money. My wife scoffed. I was being "too lazy to flick a switch." Is she right?

Are smart lights worth the money? This simple, honest guide explains the real savings, costs, and whether smart home lighting is a smart move—or just a convenient luxury.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I own a million-dollar business and am about to retire. My son, who I know won't keep it afloat, wants to buy the business. What do I do?

A retiring business owner faces a tough decision when his son wants to buy the million-dollar company—even though he may not be ready to run it. Here’s how to handle family, finances, and legacy the smart way.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

I was told I needed to swim by my physio after a car accident. Is it true that I can write off a swimming pool on my taxes?

Can you write off a swimming pool on your taxes if a doctor or physiotherapist recommends swimming after an injury? Here’s how medical expense deductions work and why claiming a pool is harder than you might think.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins

My parents want to pay for college, but only if they get to choose my degree. I don't want to be in debt forever. What do I do?

Parents offering to pay for college—but only if they choose your major? Learn how to navigate this tough decision, balance student debt with personal freedom, and confidently choose your future.
March 20, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Two female friends sitting on sofa and arguing with each other. Frie

I worked for my parents' business for the last five years. I just found out they're retiring and leaving it to my awful brother. What can I do?

I worked for my parents’ business for five years—then learned they’re leaving it to my awful brother. Here’s what you can do when family business succession doesn’t go your way.
March 19, 2026 Jack Hawkins
Internal - Dad's Antiques

My dad’s antique collection had some ultra-valuable pieces that only I knew about, but he just passed and left it all to my stepmom. What can I do?

My dad left his entire antique collection to my stepmother. Do I have any legal options? Learn how wills, probate, and inheritance disputes work—and what you can do next.
March 18, 2026 Jack Hawkins