If you, your spouse or dependents had significant medical or dental costs in 2012, you may be able to deduct those expenses when you file your tax return. Here are eight things you should know about medical and dental expenses and other benefits. 1. You must itemize. You deduct qualifying medical and dental expenses if you …
The Facts: Medical & Dental Expenses and Your Taxes Read More »
If you received income during 2012, you may need to file a tax return in 2013. The amount of your income, your filing status, your age and the type of income you received will determine whether you’re required to file. Even if you are not required to file a tax return, you may still want …
If you are having trouble paying your debts, it is important to take action sooner rather than later. Doing nothing leads to much larger problems in the future, whether it’s a bad credit record or bankruptcy resulting in the loss of assets and even your home. If you’re in financial trouble here are some steps …
Financial Troubles? 5 Ways to Improve Your Situation Read More »
Consumers should protect themselves against online identity theft and other scams that increase during–and after–the filing season. Such scams may appropriate the name, logo, or other appurtenances of the IRS or U.S. Department of the Treasury to mislead taxpayers into believing the communication is legitimate. The Internal Revenue Service receives thousands of reports each year …
Thanks to the passage of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA), many tax provisions that expired in 2011 were retroactively extended (or made permanent) that are of benefit to taxpayers filing 2012 returns this year. Here are six of them: 1. Education-Related Tax Deductions ATRA extended, through 2017 and retroactive to 2012, two …
Welcome 2013! As the new year rolls around, it’s always a sure bet that there will be changes to the current tax law and 2013 is no different. From health savings accounts to retirement contributions here’s a checklist of tax changes to help you plan the year ahead. Individuals For 2013, the big news is …
All Social Security recipients should receive a Form SSA-1099 from the Social Security Administration which shows the total amount of their benefits. But many people may not realize the Social Security benefits they received in 2012 may be taxable. The information outlined below should help you determine whether those benefits you receive in 2012 are …
While in the mode of holiday shopping, consider these 3 tax-smart purchases. Make Charitable Contributions Consider making charitable contributions before year-end both to obtain the maximum tax deduction and to fulfill any charitable programs or commitments you may have established for the year. Pay Tax-Deductible Expenses Consider paying tax-deductible expenses prior to year-end. Some common …
The purpose of life insurance is to provide a source of income, in case of death, for your children, dependents, or other beneficiaries. Life insurance can also serve certain estate planning purposes, which we won’t go into here. Buying life insurance is contingent upon whether anyone is depending on your income after your death. If …
Millions of Americans forfeit critical tax relief each year by failing to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a federal tax credit for low-to-moderate-income individuals who work. Taxpayers who qualify and claim the credit could owe less federal tax, owe no tax, or even receive a refund. The EITC is based on the amount …
Do You Qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit? Read More »