Construction

Construction job costing helps contractors understand how each project is performing financially from start to finish. That information has become increasingly important as rising material costs, labor shortages, and other project challenges continue to pressure construction margins. In addition to helping management identify problems before they become more expensive, job costing can improve future estimates and reveal which types of projects are the best fit for the business

Construction activity is strong, but the market is facing ongoing challenges. Rising material costs and global uncertainty are making it more difficult to predict project timing and margins. While contractors can't control market conditions, they can decide how much risk to accept before work begins. One of the earliest business decisions on any project is the construction contract. More than a legal agreement, the contract determines how financial risk and uncertainty will be shared between the owner and contractor. Understanding the different contract types can help construction leaders choose an approach that best fits each project and protects profitability.

Construction bonds are a familiar part of life for most contractors, especially on public work. Federal contracts are subject to bonding requirements under the Miller Act, the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and most state and local governments have followed suit with additional rules. Private owners may also require bonds, particularly when a project is large enough or complex enough that the risk warrants it. For contractors, getting bonded opens doors. For owners, it provides a level of protection they would not otherwise have. Understanding what the different bonds actually do can help construction companies prepare and get ahead of any requirements.

Construction is one of the highest risk industries in the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the industry records more than 1,000 workplace fatalities each year and accounts for roughly 20% of all U.S. workplace deaths. Property damage, equipment theft, vehicle accidents, and hazardous materials also create exposure that can affect cash flow and long-term stability. Most contractors carry multiple insurance policies because no single policy covers every type of loss. Each policy addresses a different risk. Some coverage is required by law or contract. Other policies are optional, depending on the type of work performed.

Atlanta area construction companies face a steady stream of financial demands. Cash flow, reporting, compliance, and decision-making all depend on accurate, timely accounting information. In construction, that work often involves more moving parts than general business accounting, including job costing, billing schedules, and changing project conditions. At the same time, many companies are finding it harder to build out a full in-house accounting function. As hiring remains competitive, outsourced accounting has become one way to fill the gaps.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) restored 100% bonus depreciation on a permanent basis for qualified property acquired after January 19, 2025. That change is especially important for businesses that make capital investments, including equipment purchases, facility improvements, and construction projects. Later, the IRS released Notice 2026-11 to explain how taxpayers can apply the revised rules. For business owners, the guidance clarifies the timing rules, elections, and other details that can affect eligibility and help businesses maximize the benefit of bonus depreciation.

The IRS has released Notice 2026-11, clarifying how 100% bonus depreciation works under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The interim guidance outlines the timing rules, available elections, and the types of property that qualify now that the full deduction is back in place. These issues are particularly important for any business investing in equipment, upgrading facilities, or managing multi-year projects. This guidance will ensure businesses can take full advantage of this compelling tax savings tool.

Organizations across every sector are asked to provide financial statements at one point or another. A bank needs them for a loan renewal. A foundation wants to see them before releasing a grant. These requests often come with deadlines, but not always with clear instructions. Many leaders hear the terms compilation, review, and audit and wonder what the differences mean for the organization. This often depends on how the financial statements will be used and what level of assurance outside parties need. Understanding these distinctions helps organizations avoid delays, reduce costs, and meet compliance obligations.

It’s been several weeks since the federal government shut down on October 1, 2025. Since then, many agencies have closed or are operating with only partial staff. Economists estimate that each week of the shutdown could trim about 0.1 percentage point from quarterly GDP growth, roughly $6-7 billion in lost activity across the economy.

The federal government shut down on October 1, 2025, after lawmakers couldn’t agree on a plan to fund operations for the new fiscal year. It’s the first shutdown since 2018-2019 and comes at a busy time for both taxpayers and businesses. It’s just two weeks before the October 15 filing deadline for extended individual returns. Concurrently, many Atlanta businesses are undergoing year-end tax planning.