IRS Tax Tip: Know the difference between standardized and itemized deductions
It’s a good idea for people to find out if they should file using the standard deduction or itemize their deductions. Deductions reduce the amount of taxable income when filing a federal income tax return. In other words, they can reduce the amount of tax someone owes. Individuals should understand they have a choice of […]
Can you deduct charitable gifts on your tax return?
Many taxpayers make charitable gifts — because they’re generous and they want to save money on their federal tax bills. But with the tax law changes that went into effect a couple years ago and the many rules that apply to charitable deductions, you may no longer get a tax break for your generosity. Are […]
April 1 deadline for RMD from retirement accounts
It’s nearing that time again for the deadline to take required minimum distributions from retirement accounts. April 1, 2020, is the deadline for those who turned 70 ½ in 2019 to take their required minimum distribution from their IRA and workplace retirement plans. The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019 (SECURE […]
Numerous tax limits affecting businesses have increased for 2020
An array of tax-related limits that affect businesses are annually indexed for inflation, and many have increased for 2020. Here are some that may be important to you and your business. Social Security tax The amount of employees’ earnings that are subject to Social Security tax is capped for 2020 at $137,700 (up from $132,900 […]
Beware of audit if you plan to move to a lower-tax state
If you’re thinking about moving to a place with nice weather and a nicer environment for taxes, you’re not alone – and one of the people who may be following you is an auditor. More and more Americans are moving to states that have more favorable tax laws, a trend that seems to have picked […]
Four common tax errors that cost business owners
It’s a new year and the perfect time to get your financial house in order. Business owners have so much on their plates, that staying organized throughout the year is the best way to make sure nothing important falls through the cracks when it comes time to pay taxes. Accidentally failing to comply with tax […]
IRS Free File is good option for many employees
Younger taxpayers who want to get a head start on filing their taxes can take advantage of IRS Free File. IRS Free File, which will open to taxpayers on Monday, Jan. 27, is available for taxpayers with modest incomes – less than $69,000 – making it the ideal solution for hourly employees and those still […]
SECURE Act brings changes to employer-sponsored retirement plans
Several provisions in the newly enacted SECURE Act could impact employers who offer – or who are planning to offer – their employees a retirement plan. Below is a look at some of the important elements of the SECURE Act that may affect your current retirement plan (or your decision to create a new one). […]
SECURE Act brings changes to retirement plans, kiddie tax and more
Congress recently passed, and the President signed into law, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act), landmark legislation that may affect how you plan for your retirement. Many of the provisions go into effect in 2020, which means now is the time to consider how these new rules may affect your […]