Not all income is the same in the eyes of the tax code Tip Category: Your Income The tax code uses jargon that can be confusing for the unwary. One of them that impacts most of us is the term unearned income. Unearned income is often defined as anything that is not earned income. If you …
Category: Income
The Taxability of Prizes
What everyone should know Tip Category: Your Income When you win a prize, there are really two winners: you and the taxing authorities. Should you be fortunate enough to win that trip of a lifetime to the French Riviera in your new yacht, here is what you need to know. Prizes and taxes Prizes are …
Cash in on 0% Capital Gains Tax Rate
Zero tax when selling a stock for a gain? Please tell me more! Tip Category: Your Income 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...yes, zero percent! In fact, this tax break …
Put Your Tax Refund to Good Use
Three-fourths of tax filers get a refund every year, with the average check weighing in at $2,972 so far this tax season. Have a plan to use that money well! Tip Category: Your Income Three-fourths of filers get a tax refund every year, with the average check weighing in at $2,972* so far this tax …
Triple Tax: aka The Lottery
Lotteries are a very effective way to TRIPLE tax the poor. Here's how it works. Category: Your Income Now that the dust has settled on the big lottery winnings, it is worthwhile to see how the tax math works. Seen in the light of day, it is a great way for federal and state governments …
Leveraging Your Children’s Lower Tax Rate
One of the best places for parents to look for tax savings You can legally lower your tax by shifting unearned income to your children. Here are some ideas. Tip Category: Your Income If you're a parent, your dependent children can be a source of tax savings. There are the well-known provisions in the tax code …
3 Things to Know About Summer Job Taxes
Students! Have a summer job? Will you make less than $12,950 in 2022? Claim EXEMPT on your Form W-4 to prevent federal taxes from being withheld on your paycheck. Summer brings warm weather, fun outdoor activities, and new opportunities to earn some additional income. However, taxes on seasonal income need to be handled with care, …
If You’re Expecting a Refund, Read This!
The average refund is nearly $3,000 and takes about three weeks to arrive if you e-filed. Track its progress to your bank account by visiting http://www.irs.gov/refunds. If you’re getting a refund, here are four useful tips to know.1. The average refund is more than $3,500. Through February 18, the IRS reports the average refund is $3,536, …
Rent Your Property Tax-Free
Did you know you can rent your home or cabin tax-free for up to 14 days per year? Most income you receive is taxable income that is reported to the federal and state tax authorities. However, renting out your home or vacation property on a short-term basis can be done tax-free if you follow the …
What? This Form 1099 is Wrong!
What to do to fix this thorny problem It is late February and you realize the Form 1099 you received is in error. In fact, it overstates your income by several thousand dollars. What should you do? Gather your facts. Put yourself in the shoes of the vendor, bank or investment company representative. Gather evidence …
