Donating to charity not only helps others, it can reduce your tax bill — but only if the charity qualifies as a tax-exempt organization. Checking for qualified status If you plan on itemizing your deductions on your tax return, make sure the organization you're donating to is...
While the maximum capital gain tax rate can be as high as 23.8 percent, most taxpayers pay 15 percent. But there is the possibility to have your capital gains go tax-free; zero percent! In fact, this tax break has been around for more than a...
Although you won’t become eligible for Social Security until your 60s, there’s a lot you can do to prepare before then. Here’s a rundown of steps you can take during each decade of your life: In your 20s: If you’re like a lot of people, you’re...
If Benjamin Franklin were alive today, his famous quote “Nothing is certain, except death and taxes.” might include a third item — paying medical expenses. Medical expenses, in one form or another, are unavoidable. Fortunately a health savings account (HSA) is a great way to...
The IRS is expanding a pilot program that uses Identity Protection Personal Information Numbers (IP PINs) to provide an extra layer of security for taxpayers. The program can be used by residents of the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, California, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada...
Kids aren’t the only ones heading back to school this fall. Many adults are also taking courses to pursue a new career or improve their current job skills. Fortunately, adult students may qualify for several tax breaks. Here are four possible options: American Opportunity Tax...
Now is a good time to assess your current situation and address those lingering tax moves that may improve your tax picture for 2019. Here are five things to consider: 1. Check on your withholdings. Review your taxable income and the amount of tax you’ve paid to...
If you have not already done so, now is the time to review your tax situation and make an estimated quarterly tax payment using Form 1040-ES. The third quarter due date is now here. Due date: Monday, September 16th, 2019 Remember, you are required to withhold at...
As you or family members approach retirement years, it is important to have a basic understanding of the IRS gift giving rules. With this understanding, there are opportunities to leverage this tax law without creating a tax problem. The rules You may give up to $15,000...
Everybody likes getting something for free, and taxes are no different. Investing in securities like municipal bonds (munis) or municipal bond funds generates tax-free interest income. Here is what you need to know. Advantages of municipal bonds You pay zero federal tax on municipal bond investment income....
