Multi-unit Crumbl franchise owner (Midwest)
The client had been working with a previous CPA to prepare their Crumbl franchise tax returns, K-1s, and other related business filings. However, the prior CPA was not aware that when an employer pays employment taxes on employee tips, the business may be eligible to claim a FICA Tip Credit equal to 7.65% of taxable tips.
As a result, this credit had gone unclaimed for multiple years.
When the client’s CPA retired, they transitioned their accounts to Certus Accounting & Tax Services.
During Certus’ annual tax strategy meeting, our team identified that the client’s Crumbl locations qualified for a previously unclaimed tip-related tax credit. Because this was uncovered through proactive planning we were able to take timely action.
Our team:
Identified the missed tax credit opportunity
Coordinated and reviewed payroll and tax records
Verified eligibility for prior-year credits
Confirmed the credits could still be claimed retroactively
By addressing this early, we ensured the opportunity was not lost due to timing or filing limitations.
As a result of this review, the client will receive over $20,000 in tax credits this year.
These credits:
Directly offset personal income tax liability
Improve overall cash flow
Ensure future credits are captured correctly
This case demonstrates the value of working with a CPA firm that understands franchise-specific and food-service tax strategies.
Proactive tax planning and industry knowledge can uncover substantial savings that many business owners don’t realize they qualify for.