Hidden Money Podcast

Most people think about tax deductions and completely overlook tax credits, even though credits are often worth far more.In this episode of the Hidden Money Podcast, Mike and Kevin dive into tax credits as “gifts” from the government, and how smart planning can help you actually receive them instead of unknowingly saying “no thanks.”They break down:The difference between tax credits vs deductionsRefundable vs nonrefundable creditsWhy lowering your AGI is the key to unlocking more creditsEnergy and solar credits, home efficiency upgrades, and expiring timelinesCollege and education credits (and how they tie into FAFSA and tuition planning)The underused R&D credit, even for non-tech, service-based businessesOverlooked business credits for employers: health insurance, retirement, paid leave, work opportunity hires, restaurant tips, and moreWhether you’re a high-income earner, business owner, or simply someone who doesn’t want to leave free money on the table, this episode will change the way you think about credits, AGI, and tax planning.Want a tax planning team in your corner?Learn more at RevoTaxpayer.com and find out how proactive tax strategy can help you legally pay less in tax and keep more of what you earn.

Most people miss the easiest tax deductions, especially in December. In this episode, Mike and Kevin share their favorite underrated year-end deductions, including tech, tools, team expenses, and simple business purchases that can still lower your tax bill before December 31.If you’re a high earner or business owner looking for quick wins before year-end, this is your episode.What you’ll learn:• The most overlooked deductions people forget• Why December spending still counts• Everyday technology you should be deducting• CPA-favorite tax moves that save real money• How to stop leaving money on the tableFollow the Hidden Money Podcast for more real-world tax strategy, financial planning, and stories from the field.Work with Revo Tax → https://revotaxpayer.com

Bad CPA Advice That’s Wrecking Your Year-End Tax PlanIs bad CPA advice quietly wrecking your year-end tax plan? In this week’s Hidden Money episode, Mike and Kevin unpack the most common things people hear from their CPAs that sound “responsible” but actually cost them tens of thousands of dollars in unnecessary tax. If you have ever been told “there is nothing else you can do” or “just pay it and be grateful,” this conversation will reset how you think about year-end tax planning.Mike and Kevin share real stories of high-income earners who were convinced they were “doing great on taxes” while paying 35 to 40 percent, all because their CPA was focused on filing returns instead of building a strategy. They explain why some licensed CPAs still operate from outdated rules, how misinformation spreads, and why the tax code is far more flexible than you have been led to believe.What You Will Learn in This Episode• Common CPA myths that wreck your year-end tax plan• Why “there’s nothing you can do” is almost never true• How the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act still creates missed opportunities for high earners• When an IRS audit is not something to fear and can actually validate your strategy• How W-2 earners can still create meaningful tax savings with the right planning• Why the tax code is designed to reward strategic taxpayers, not punish them• How to tell if your CPA is a tax preparer or a true tax strategistIf your CPA keeps telling you there is nothing left to plan, it is time for a second opinion. Want Mike and Kevin to review your facts and help rebuild your year-end tax plan? Visit revotaxpayer.com to schedule your consultation.

If you’re a high-income earner wondering why your bank account doesn’t reflect the long hours, sacrifices, and hard work... you’re not alone. In this powerful episode, CPAs Mike Pine & Kevin Schneider break down what year-end tax planning really means for high earners and why strategic tax moves can feel like magic when done right. This is the episode that finally explains why “making more money” shouldn’t mean “giving more of it away.”From navigating estate considerations and accredited investor rules to real-life examples involving surgeons, tech-stock windfalls, and real estate professional status, Mike & Kevin pull back the curtain on how the wealthiest taxpayers legally reduce their tax burdens. Whether you're earning $300K, $1M, or multiple seven figures, this episode shows why proactive tax planning is the top lever high earners can pull to protect and grow their wealth.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why high-income earners often feel “broke” despite big incomes, and how tax planning fixes itThe accredited investor thresholds and the expanded investment strategies they unlockHow estate considerations, step-up in basis, and legacy planning impact high-net-worth familiesWhy two people earning the same income may need completely different tax strategiesWhen passive tax strategies make sense for ultra-busy professionalsThe real role a spouse can play in tax planning (including real estate professional status)How overlooked lifestyle activities—like hosting events at home—can produce massive tax savingsWant Mike & Kevin to build a personalized tax plan that fits your life, not just the tax code?Book a free consult at Revo Tax and start keeping what’s rightfully yours.

Year-end real estate tax planning can save hundreds of thousands or turn into a costly audit nightmare when done wrong. In this episode, Mike & Kevin break down real client stories where DIY tax advice, online templates, and even ChatGPT-led planning derailed purchase price allocations, cost segregation, bonus depreciation, and lender negotiations.You’ll learn why real estate tax planning isn’t a copy-paste strategy, the hidden pitfalls of automated cost-seg tools, how poorly executed PPA language can kill a deal, and what actually makes year-end tax planning defensible, effective, and IRS-ready.This episode covers:• Purchase Price Allocations (PPA) and why execution matters more than strategy alone• Cost segregation shortcuts that trigger audits• Bonus depreciation done right (and the risks when it’s not)• The difference between tax education and tax implementation• Red flags that signal you need a real specialist, not a DIY promptWant help executing instead of experimenting? Book a consultation with Mike and Kevin at Revo Tax Follow for weekly tax strategy insights that help you keep more of what you earn, without cutting corners that cost you later.

If your idea of year-end tax planning is “buy a new truck to save on taxes,” think again. In this episode of Hidden Money Podcast, tax strategist and CPAs at Revo Tax Mike Pine and Kevin Schneider answer the 10 most frequently asked questions about proactive tax planning. They bust the myth that purchasing a big asset is the best way to cut your tax bill and share smarter strategies to change your facts and legally lower your tax before December 31.You’ll learn:Tax Planning vs. Tax Prep: Why planning ahead is a game-changer (and how it differs from simply filing taxes).Avoidance vs. Evasion: The crucial difference between legal tax avoidance and illegal tax evasion, and how to stay on the right side of the law.Timing is Everything: When to start planning and how often to review your strategy (so you never miss out on deductions or credits).Audit Risk Myths: Whether using aggressive tax strategies (like big year-end write-offs) increases your audit risk, and how proper documentation keeps you audit-proof.Real Savings Examples: How smart moves (like strategic investments and business structuring) helped real clients save tens of thousandsCost vs. Benefit: What quality tax planning services might cost and why the right tax strategy can pay for itself multiple times over.Stop Overpaying: Simple ways to ensure you’re not leaving Uncle Sam an unnecessary tip. If you’re earning well and not planning proactively, you are overpaying your taxes.Ready to stop overpaying and keep more of what you earn? Book a free consultation with the Revo Tax team at revotaxpayer.com to get your personalized year-end game plan.Disclaimer: This episode is meant for educational purposes only and is not tax, legal, or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personal guidance.

If your only touchpoint with a CPA is dropping off documents in March, you’re doing tax prep, not tax planning. In this episode, Mike and Kevin show how proactive tax strategy, in-year moves (made before December 31) can change your facts and legally lower your tax.You’ll learn:Tax planning vs. tax preparation (and why planning must come first)How to find a CPA/ tax strategist who meets with you before filing seasonSmart year-end moves for W-2 high earners and the self-employedUsing investments (e.g., oil & gas) to repurpose taxes into your portfolioHow planning can restore phased-out credits and compound savingsReady to change your facts and your tax? Book a free consultation at Revo Tax Disclaimer: This is meant to be educational content only; not tax, legal, or investment advice.

The Tax-Free Exit Strategy Your CPA Wishes They Knew AboutYou've heard the saying: the only sure things are death and taxes. Mike and Kevin are here to call BS on the taxes part.In this episode of Hidden Money, we dive deep into the Opportunity Zone (OZ) strategy, a powerful but underused tool, recently supercharged by the One Big Beautiful Bill act. Learn how savvy investors are using OZs to legally defer capital gains for years and ultimately pay $0 on the profit when they sell.This isn't theory; it’s an actionable playbook for those with serious capital gains (stock sales, business exits, etc.) looking for a way out.Inside The Advanced OZ Playbook:The Zero-Tax Finish Line: How a simple 10-year hold in an OZ can turn a multi-million dollar appreciation into a completely tax-free sale.The New Rules That Matter: We decode the bill's changes, including the permanent status of OZs and the new, easier requirements for "Qualified Rural Opportunity Zones."DIY Fund vs. Brokerage Pool: Why Mike and Kevin often advise clients to create their own OZ partnership/fund instead of going the traditional 1031 route or trusting a large fund.Real Client Strategies: Rolling $5M in Microsoft/Tesla stock gains into a self-storage build and using vested RSU income to secure a tax-advantaged short-term rental.The Ultimate "Double Dip": Layering Cost Segregation with an OZ investment to generate massive paper losses now while securing the tax-free exit later.Who needs this? If you're a business owner, high-net-worth investor, or anyone sitting on a mountain of stock gains, this episode is your blueprint.Ready to challenge the axiom? Mike and Kevin practice what they preach. Book a free consultation with Revo Tax, to see how an Opportunity Zone strategy could work for your capital gains.

Thinking about real estate syndications? In this episode, we sit down with Jack, operator, LP, and former Fortune 500 M&A/CFO leader, to break down how syndications work, who should consider them, and the (very real) tax advantages when they’re structured well.What a syndication actually is (and how it differs from partnerships and going solo)GP vs. LP roles, simple vs. complex waterfalls (why many pros prefer an 80/20 after return of capital)Accredited investor rules, risks, and why due diligence on the operator comes firstTax angles: 100% bonus depreciation, passive loss carry forwards, tax-advantaged distributions vs. stock dividendsInterest rates, insurance, and property taxes - how today’s headwinds shape deals (and how strong operators respond)Practical LP checklist: track record, comp, skin-in-the-game, docs you must read (PPM, OA.If you’re a high-income earner or business owner and want proactive tax strategy, grab a free consult with our team at Revo Tax . Disclaimer: This is education, not financial/tax/legal advice. Always consult your own advisor.

Real estate investors are missing one of the most powerful, and overlooked tax strategies: Purchase Price Allocation (PPA).In this episode, Mike Pine & Kevin Schneider from Revo Tax reveal how to use PPA to front-load depreciation, offset W-2 or self-employed income, and dramatically lower your tax bill. Learn how PPA compares to cost segregation, when each is best, and why this move can supercharge your returns.Episode highlights:What PPA is and why the IRS requires it for trade or business purchasesReal-world examples: 25–35% depreciation with cost seg vs. 80%+ with PPAStructuring offers with sellers and covering their tax to close the dealHow to mitigate recapture, bonus depreciation limits, and timing issuesWhether you’re buying your first short-term rental or scaling a multimillion-dollar portfolio, this episode will change how you think about depreciation.Work with Mike & Kevin: revotaxpayer.comLearn more: hiddenmoney.comThis is educational content, not tax, legal, or financial advice. Talk to your advisor about your portfolio.

Build steady cash flow, pay down debt with tenant dollars, and unlock serious tax advantages without living inside an Airbnb turnover. In Part 3 of our Real Estate Series, Mike and Kevin break down how long-term rentals build wealth and legally cut taxes.What you’ll learnLong-term rentals vs. short-term: cash flow, workload, and tax treatmentPassive vs. active income rules, and why that matters for your W-2The truth about Real Estate Professional (REP) status Material participation for long-term rentals and when the grouping election helps (or hurts)Why “good debt” + depreciation can accelerate returnsReal client wins (cost seg, losses, and dropping effective tax rates)Lifestyle benefits (own near family, travel to “inspect,” and still keep it a legit business)Follow the show for the full series and weekly tax strategy drops at https://hiddenmoney.com/Want a free tax strategy call with Mike or Kevin? Schedule at revotaxpayer.com.

Thinking about buying a vacation rental—or already own one? In this episode of the Hidden Money Podcast, we break down how short-term rentals can be a powerful wealth-building and tax-saving tool.From bonus depreciation and cost segregation studies to material participation rules and IRS audit strategies, we show you how to make the tax code work in your favor. You’ll hear real client examples of investors who’ve turned down payments into six-figure tax savings, plus the common mistakes that can sink your strategy.👉 What you’ll learn in this episode:How vacation rentals can offset your active incomeWhy 100% bonus depreciation is back and how to use itThe truth about DIY vs. professional cost segregationHow to avoid IRS pitfalls and pass audits with confidenceKey rules around personal use, material participation, and depreciation recaptureWhether you’re a high-income earner or just starting with short-term rentals, this episode will help you unlock hidden tax benefits most investors overlook.Follow the Hidden Money podcast for the rest of our Real Estate Series and practical tax strategies you can put to work today and reach out to Revo Tax to build the right tax strategy for you

Real estate can build wealth three ways—cash flow, appreciation, and (the sleeper) depreciation. In today’s kickoff to our Real Estate Series, we break down how to start smart: entities, lending, liability protection, and why fixed-rate debt + depreciation can supercharge ROI.In this episode:LLCs vs. S-Corps/C-Corps for rentals (and how to keep your veil intact)Lending basics for investors: down payments, personal guarantees, fixed vs. variableLeveraging debt safely (not the Dave Ramsey kind)The “hidden money” in depreciation and when it can offset W-2 incomePlanning to scale: holding companies, series LLCs, and insuranceResources & next steps:• Learn more or book a free strategy session: revotaxpayer.com• Explore the show + more episodes: hiddenmoney.comDisclaimer: We’re CPAs, not your attorneys. This is education, not legal or tax advice. Talk to your own pros about your situation.

Selling your business is a once-in-a-lifetime move—don’t give Uncle Sam a tip. In this episode of Hidden Money, we sit down with Kyle Gabbert and Tyler Wright of Bluegrass Legacy to unpack the real playbook for exit planning: building enterprise value (not just income), installing SOPs so your company runs without you, and preparing for the 55% of exits that are unplanned. We also dig into tax strategies like §1202 QSBS and cash balance plans that can massively increase what you keep.You’ll learn:How to make your business sellable (and more enjoyable to run right now)Why buyers pay more for systems, teams, and transferable relationshipsWhat multiples really mean—and how to move from “average” to “best in class”The 5-year window for powerful, legal tax strategiesLinks & resources:Hidden Money Podcast & resources → hiddenmoney.comWork with the Revo team → revotaxpayer.com/contactIf this helped, follow the show and share it with an owner who’s thinking about an exit.

Making Smart Moves in Today’s Market (ft. Kyle Gebhart & Tyler Wright, Bluegrass Legacy)Rates. Inflation. Politics. Portfolios. In this episode, Kyle Gebhart and Tyler Wright from Bluegrass Legacy join Mike & Kevin to unpack what’s really driving today’s market, and the moves smart investors can make now.In this episode:• The Fed’s tough tradeoff: inflation vs. unemployment• How higher costs hit owners and employees (and what to do about it)• Why commodities (gold, oil & gas, etc) can help during inflation• Tariffs, deficits, and dollar strength—what matters for your plan• Practical positioning so you can win in up and down marketsGuests: Kyle Gebhart & Tyler Wright — Bluegrass LegacyMore from us: Hidden Money Podcast • Revo Tax Like what you hear? Follow the show and share with a friend who’s feeling market anxiety.📩 Ready for a proactive tax strategy? Revo Tax

 In this power-packed episode, Mike Pine and Kevin Schneider reveal one of the biggest hidden gems in the U.S. tax code: intangible drilling costs (IDCs). Whether you're a W-2 earner, self-employed, or a business owner looking for a major deduction, oil and gas investing—done the right way—could save you tens of thousands in taxes each year.💼 What You’ll Learn:How intangible drilling costs (IDCs) can offset up to 90% of your taxable incomeWhy investing through a working interest (not royalty/mineral interest) is criticalThe role of general partner liability and how to mitigate itCommon AMT pitfalls and how to avoid themHow Revo’s diversified fund-of-funds structure reduces risk while preserving deductionsThe long-term benefit of depletion for tax-efficient incomeWhether you're looking to eliminate W-2 tax liability or diversify your portfolio into an asset class backed by energy independence, this episode delivers insights grounded in the tax code, not hype. Learn more at https://www.revotaxpayer.com#OilAndGasTaxStrategy #IntangibleDrillingCosts #PassiveVsActiveIncome #HiddenTaxSavings #AlternativeInvestments #RevoTax #WorkingInterest #FundOfFunds

As a high-earning physician, your income and assets make you a prime target for lawsuits, audits, and financial predators. In this episode of the Hidden Money Podcast, CPAs Mike Pine and Kevin Schneider reveal the steps doctors must take to shield their personal and professional assets from liability.This episode explores:Why insurance is not enough to protect your wealthThe role of LLCs, LPs, and trusts in creating legal separationHow real estate investments can expose physicians to non-medical lawsuitsWhy doctors should never own assets in their own nameHow to title assets, shift ownership, and still retain controlWhat your insurance agent might not tell you about coverage gapsThe importance of a coordinated CPA + attorney strategyThis is more than financial planning—it’s legacy protection. Whether you're 5 years into practice or preparing for retirement, this episode is your roadmap to building a fortress around your wealth.🎧 For more episodes or to schedule a consultation, visit https://www.revotaxpayer.com#PhysicianAssetProtection #TrustStrategy #MedicalLiabilityRisk #WealthPreservation #RevoTax #HiddenMoneyPodcast #DoctorFinance

High-income physicians with multiple income streams can unlock massive tax savings—if they know how to leverage real estate correctly. In this episode of the Hidden Money Podcast, CPAs Mike Pine and Kevin Schneider explore the strategic use of both long-term and short-term real estate investments to reduce taxable income.🎯 Key Topics Covered:Depreciation: Why it's the “magic deduction” for growing wealthLong-Term Rentals: How a stay-at-home spouse can qualify for real estate professional status (REP)Short-Term Rentals: How to use the material participation rules to bypass REP requirementsPassive Income: How to offset surgery center K-1s and other medical investmentsSelf-Rental Strategies: Using your practice’s building to generate deductible passive incomeCash Flow Considerations, Market Risks & Tax Code ComplianceThis episode is packed with real-world tax strategies that empower physicians to reduce their tax liability, build wealth, and reclaim their time.👉 Whether you’re just starting your real estate portfolio or already own multiple properties, this episode will reshape how you think about tax strategy.🎧 Listen to more at https://www.revotaxpayer.com#PhysicianTaxStrategy #RealEstateTaxTips #ShortTermRentalTax #MedicalInvestments #RealEstateProfessionalStatus #RevoTax #HiddenMoneyPodcast

If you're a self-employed doctor, 1099 physician, or owner of a medical practice, this episode is for you. CPAs Mike Pine and Kevin Schneider dive deep into the world of physician tax planning—where high income, high liability, and complex business structures collide.Discover how to structure your practice using an LLC or PA to limit liability and unlock tax benefits. Learn how S corp elections can help eliminate thousands in self-employment tax, and how to take full advantage of bonus depreciation for big-ticket medical equipment. They also discuss how employing your kids, avoiding co-mingled expenses, and working with the right bookkeeper can make or break your financial strategy.🎯 What You’ll Learn:Entity formation basics (LLC vs PA vs S Corp)How S corp status reduces self-employment taxesWhat physicians can legally deductHow bonus depreciation can accelerate your equipment ROICreative household income shifting strategiesCommon pitfalls like co-mingling and bad bookkeepingDon’t leave money on the table. Whether you’re just starting your own practice or already navigating the complex world of private medicine, this episode equips you with real-world tax strategies that make a difference.🎧 For more, visit https://www.revotaxpayer.com#SelfEmployedDoctors #PhysicianFinance #1099DoctorTaxTips #SCorpForDoctors #MedicalPracticeTaxStrategy #RevoTax

Are tax refunds “free money”? Should W-2 earners just accept high tax bills? And is the IRS really your enemy?In this myth-busting episode, Kevin and Mike tackle 7 of the most common, and most damaging, misconceptions about taxes. From misunderstood red flags to overpaying "just to stay safe," they reveal how these myths are quietly costing you money.Discover how to turn the tax code into your greatest wealth-building ally, why strategy matters even if you’re a W-2 employee, and how state tax rules may be hurting your bottom line.🎧 Tune in to reclaim your financial power.💼 Learn more at revotaxpayer.com📌 Follow and subscribe to stay ahead of tax changes.