Divorce is a difficult process for everyone involved. That’s why being clear and organized when it comes to finances can help facilitate the process. The first step is generally to compile a marital balance sheet. This brief article discusses this step and what it involves....
Despite the robust job market, some people are still losing their jobs. For those who are laid off or terminated from employment, taxes are probably the last thing they’re concerned about. However, they may face tax implications when personal and professional circumstances change, and there...
If your child is awarded a scholarship for college or another type of school, it’s certainly cause for celebration. But parents need to be aware of the potential tax implications. This article explains when a scholarship may be taxable....
Many people earn money during the year but don’t have any, or enough, federal tax withheld from the payments. Or they have taxable income from sources such as interest, dividends, self-employment income or capital gains. If that’s the case, they may need to make estimated...
This calendar notes important tax deadlines for the third quarter of 2023....
Stock market and interest rate uncertainty may cause some investors to turn to bonds. This brief article discusses several popular options, including U.S. government savings bonds and corporate bonds....
Two tax benefits may be available to offset the expenses of adopting a child. In 2023, adoptive parents may be able to claim a credit against their federal tax for up to $15,950 of “qualified adoption expenses” for each child. That’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction of...
Sadly, many businesses have been forced to shut down recently due to the challenges of the economy, including the supply chain. To close a business, various tax responsibilities must be met, preferably with the help of a trusted tax advisor. ...
The volatility in the stock market may have caused the value of retirement accounts to decrease. To those with traditional IRAs invested in stocks, a decline may provide a valuable opportunity: that is, taxpayers may be able to convert a traditional IRA to a Roth...
It’s not just businesses that can deduct vehicle-related expenses on their tax returns. Individuals also may be able to deduct them in certain circumstances. Under current law, the deduction is less than it was years ago, although due to the high price of gas, the...
During these times of high inflation, many cash-challenged businesses have bartered for goods and services instead of paying dollars for them. Companies that get involved in such transactions need to keep in mind that the fair market value of goods they receive is taxable income....
Most people feel a sense of relief after filing their tax returns each year. But even those who’ve successfully filed their 2022 returns with the IRS should still keep some issues in mind. This article discusses three considerations: checking on a refund, filing an amended...
In some cases, homeowners move to new residences, but keep their present homes and rent them out. Homeowners who are considering this are probably already aware of the financial risks and rewards of doing so. However, they should also know that renting out a personal...
Spring has sprung — and summer isn’t far off. For businesses that typically hire minors for summer jobs, it’s a good idea to brush up on child labor laws. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division recently announced that it’s stepping up efforts...
No one likes surprises when filing a tax return. One thing that catches many older people off guard is getting taxed on their Social Security benefits. This article explains how taxpayers can calculate provisional income to determine whether their Social Security income is indeed subject...
Many people are distressed to find they owe money when they file their federal tax returns. When that happens, taxpayers might want to change their withholding so that it doesn’t happen again the following year. Another reason to consider adjusting withholding is when a...
This calendar notes important tax deadlines for the 2nd quarter of 2023....
A new law was recently passed that will help Americans save more for retirement, although many of the provisions don’t kick in for a few years. The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement 2.0 Act (SECURE 2.0) was signed into law on December 29,...
A company owner who travels on business, accompanied by his or her spouse, may be able to deduct all the travel expenses incurred by the spouse. However, the rules are restrictive, starting with the requirement that the spouse must be a bona fide employee of...
In an increasingly global society, many taxpayers hold foreign accounts. This article explains the rules regarding who must file a Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) with the government....
Back in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, many people’s emergency funds were suddenly put to the test. Now, presumably with the benefit of some hindsight, the financially savvy might want to reconsider their approach to saving. This brief article discusses some key points...
It’s common for many people to start the year intending to get out of debt, yet end the year owing just as much, if not more. This brief article explores a debt-reduction approach called “throwing snowballs,” which involves organizing debts from lowest to highest balance...
Many people might think about moving to another state. However, it’s important to consider the tax ramifications before doing so. This article urges readers to identify all applicable taxes in a destination state ahead of time and recommends learning what the legal requirements are for...
Working from home has become the norm for many people in recent years. Now they might be wondering if they can claim the home office deduction for 2022. The short answer is: Only those who are self-employed can claim it. This article delves deeper into...
Abstract: Running a business requires that strong, supportable records be kept. Every expense that appears on a tax return might have to be defended if the IRS decides to audit the return. And failing to operate in a businesslike manner and keep good records might...
Right now, taxpayers may be more concerned about their 2022 tax bills than about how to handle their personal finances in the new year. However, as they deal with their annual tax filing, it’s a good idea to also familiarize themselves with pertinent tax-related amounts...
The IRS generally begins accepting the previous year’s individual tax returns in late January. So, it’s time for taxpayers to start thinking about getting their tax returns prepared. Here are quick tips taxpayers can use to speed tax processing and avoid hassles....
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens to a person’s assets after death. It’s also about protecting one’s family during his or her lifetime. This article discusses two estate planning documents that are essential for everyone: a living will and a health care power of...
Because of the economic impact of inflation, many companies may need to conserve cash and not buy much equipment this year. As a result, the business may not be able to claim as many depreciation tax deductions as in the past. However, if the company...
Nonqualified deferred compensation (NQDC) plans allow participants to set aside large amounts of tax-deferred compensation, but they may also pose substantial risks. This article distinguishes NQDC plans from qualified defined contribution plans and discusses the pluses and minuses....
