Information is key when using this tax planning strategy You own some stock that has increased in value. To avoid a possible taxable gain by selling the stock, you wish to give it directly to a child or grandchild. This simple idea has some interesting tax consequences to consider. Value of the gift When you …
Understanding Tax Terms: Pass-through Entities
What everyone should know Small business owners have a number of options on how to organize their business for tax purposes. And if you sell items on eBay or Esty, drive for Uber, or offer your services as a writer or programmer, you are probably considered a flow-through entity in the eyes of the IRS. …
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Toss This. Not That. 2025 Edition
Your guide to post tax-filing record retention Tax season is over and your focus is on enjoying the summer. But before you close that tax file, make a final review to ensure you records are accessible should you ever need them. This is especially important. If the IRS or state revenue department selects your return …
To Amend or Not Amend?
Is it always a good idea to amend your tax return if you find an error? Here's a tip that is worth reviewing each year as adjustments to your income tax return may become apparent. This is often common with the advent of changing tax rules and as the IRS finalizes rules on recently passed …
Income the IRS Can’t Touch
Wouldn't it be nice to have a source of nontaxable income? You may be more fortunate than you realize. Here are several types of income that the IRS does not tax. 1. Tax-free interest. The federal government does not tax municipal bond interest. This includes bonds issued by a state or municipality. The tax-free benefit increases …
Social Security Planning Starts Now for EVERYONE
Plus: Trump Account ALERT! 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 embarking on a career. At this …
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Reminder: Second Quarter Estimated Taxes Are Due
Now is the time to make your estimated tax payment 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 second quarter due date is now here. Due date: Monday, June 15, 2026 You are required to withhold …
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Five Reasons Why the IRS Will Audit You
Each year, the IRS audits over 1 million tax returns. With agency resources shrinking, the IRS is more selective when choosing which tax returns to audit. Knowing what the IRS is looking for can help you understand and reduce your audit risk. Here are five of the biggest reasons the IRS may choose to audit …
Lower This Year’s Tax Obligation
Action to take now! Now is a good time to assess your current situation and address any lingering tax moves that may improve your tax picture for 2026. Here are five things to consider: 1. Check your withholdings. Review your taxable income and the amount of tax you’ve paid to Uncle Sam so far this year. …
Understanding the Gift Giving Tax
Excess gift giving could cause a tax surprise In an effort to keep taxpayers from transferring wealth from one generation to the next tax-free, there are specific limits to the amount of gifts one may give to any one person each year. Amounts in excess of this limit are subject to filing an annual gift …
