Steven A. Barnes
Partner, Wipfli Advisory LLC
Steve Barnes is a partner on the cost segregation team with expertise in the engineering approach of cost segregation for both new construction projects and purchased properties. His understanding of construction finances and his ability to analyze construction documents are important assets in the process of cost segregation projects. Steve’s experience also includes Section 263A repair versus capitalization review tangible property studies and Section 168 fixed asset disposal studies.
Steve has years of experience adjusting the timing of deductions to provide clients with tax savings. Prior to joining Wipfli, he helped lead a cost segregation practice at a regional CPA firm. Steve specializes in various industries including commercial real estate, hotel and convention, retail and wholesale, manufacturing, food processing, health care, residential, and auto dealerships.
Professional memberships and activities
- Burlington Jaycees - Member
Areas of Focus
- Construction cost segregation studies
- Allocation of purchase price
- Depreciation catch-up studies
- Section 179D studies
- Audit support for cost segregation studies
Education
Milwaukee Area Technical College- Associate degree in applied science in architecture technology
Recent Insights
Articles
American energy dominance: Restoring certainty for energy policy
May 19, 2026
Can the qualified production property rule help your manufacturing firm reduce tax payments?
Mar 17, 2026
What are the essential rules for 100% bonus depreciation in 2026?
Feb 26, 2026
You can still claim Section 179D after it sunsets in June — but only if you act now
Feb 03, 2026
Easy-reference chart: How the OBBB changed tax rules in 2025
Dec 18, 2025
Cities and states are taking the lead on energy incentives — and you can benefit
Dec 12, 2025
What’s not going away: Energy tax credits and incentives that survived the OBBB
Aug 14, 2025
The 179D deduction ends soon, but savings are still possible
Jul 30, 2025
How energy credits change your capital planning strategy
Jul 24, 2025
The One Big Beautiful Bill is phasing out energy incentives, but there’s still time to act
Jul 14, 2025
4 energy tax incentives A&E firms should take advantage of right now
Jun 06, 2025
Clean energy tax incentives still add up: How schools can fund projects even post-OBBB
Mar 28, 2025
Don’t miss these major tax savings: Claim your state energy incentives now
Mar 03, 2025
How the Inflation Reduction Act expands the tax deduction for energy-efficient buildings
Aug 11, 2022
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 extends sec. 45L through 2021
Feb 01, 2021
The “retail glitch” is finally fixed — and it applies to non-retail commercial properties too
Apr 28, 2020
Buying or building real estate? You should consider a cost segregation study
Jul 21, 2019
How to use tax engineering to accelerate depreciation for new construction projects
Nov 15, 2018
Bonus Depreciation Expanded
Aug 23, 2018
Unexpected Tax Consequences of Related Party Sale Requires Careful Navigation
Jul 27, 2011
Videos And Webcasts
Tax updates from Capitol Hill
Feb 18, 2026
The future of energy tax credits: How the One Big Beautiful Bill impacts incentives
Jul 11, 2025
Unlock energy incentives: Turn tax credits into cash
Jun 05, 2024
How to maximize your 179D benefits
Jan 31, 2024
Get green by going green
Jan 19, 2023
In The News
External News
Strategic Upgrades Help Aging Buildings Meet Modern Demands - Facilities Management Insights
Facilities`Net | May 29, 2026
