The IRS remains on the lookout for tax scams that can hoodwink unsuspecting taxpayers. Recently, two new variations of past scams have been discovered to be on the rise. Here’s what you need to know: Scam 1: The SSN hustle The scam: This scam resembles another where callers impersonate IRS agents. In this version, the
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It’s sad, but true: Half of all new businesses fail within the first five years. Although lots of factors contribute to business failure, a common culprit is poor cash management. All businesses must deal with the uncertainty of fluctuating sales, inventories and expenses, but managing these risks is especially important for small businesses with limited
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One of the basics in retirement is to be as tax efficient with your income as possible. In 2019, income tax rates range from 0% to 37%, plus a potential 3.8% net investment tax. Understanding how these progressive tax rates apply to ordinary income creates planning opportunities in retirement. The basic concept Many retirees have
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With summertime activities in full swing, tax planning is probably not on the top of your to-do list. But putting it off can create problems at the end of the year when there’s little time for changes to take effect. If you take the time to plan now, you’ll have six months for your actions
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A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account whose funds can be used to pay qualified health care costs for you, your spouse and your dependents. The account is a great way to pay for qualified health care costs with pre-tax dollars. In fact any investment gains on your funds are also tax-free
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The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TJCA) made significant changes to how most people calculate their taxes, including a doubling of the standard deduction. One of the results of these changes is that a lot of people are under the impression that there are no longer any tax benefits given for charitable contributions.
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Business travel is still tax-deductible, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA), but there is a major difference now. Relatively few individuals will be able to claim such deductions; for the most part, deductions can be taken only at the company level. How is this different from prior law? Before the TCJA
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Year-end tax planning is on the agenda for many taxpayers, with good reason. That said, you don’t have to wait for November or December to make some smart moves. Planning in June or July can lead to tax savings that could be reduced or lost altogether if you wait for late fall to act. Here
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If you are looking for tax-free income and more flexibility during retirement, one option to consider is investing in a Roth IRA. While Roth IRA contributions are not sheltered from current taxes like contributions to traditional IRAs, they do offer other tax benefits during retirement. The Roth IRA advantage Retirement withdrawals (including earnings) are tax-free.
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Whether you receive a big refund or pay taxes on tax day, taking action now can ensure next year’s tax bill is optimized by not paying more than necessary. Update paycheck withholdings and forecast estimated tax payments. Reviewing and updating withholdings now gives you several months to spread out the tax impact on your daily
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