Tax planning strategies for individuals this year include postponing income and accelerating deductions, as well as careful consideration of timing related investments, charitable gifts, and retirement planning. General tax planning strategies that taxpayers might consider include the following: Sell any investments on which you have a gain or loss this year. For more on this, see Investment Gains and Losses, below. If you anticipate an increase in taxable income in 2016 and are expecting a bonus at year-end, try to … Read More
Choosing the Right Business Entity
When you decide to start a business, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right business entity. It’s a decision that impacts many things–from the amount of taxes you pay to how much paperwork you have to deal with and what type of personal liability you face. Forms of Business The most common forms of business are Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and Corporations (C-Corporations). Federal tax law also recognizes another business … Read More
Tax Brackets, Deductions, and Exemptions for 2016
More than 50 tax provisions, including the tax rate schedules, and other tax changes are adjusted for inflation in 2016. Let's take a look at the ones most likely to affect taxpayers like you. The tax rate of 39.6 percent affects singles whose income exceeds $415,050 ($466,950 for married taxpayers filing a joint return), up from $413,200 and $464,850, respectively. The other marginal rates--10, 15, 25, 28, 33 and 35 percent--and related income tax thresholds--are found at IRS.gov. The standard ... Read More
10 Tax Breaks Reauthorized for Tax Year 2015
Congress finally took action in late December and passed a tax extender bill formally known as the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 (PATH), which was then signed into law. Retroactive to January 1, 2015, many tax provisions were made permanent while others were extended through 2016 or 2019. Let's take a look at some of the tax provisions most likely to affect taxpayers when filing their 2015 tax returns. 1. Teachers' Deduction for Certain Expenses Primary and ... Read More
Health Flexible Spending Arrangements in 2016
Eligible employees should begin planning now to take full advantage of their employer's health flexible spending arrangement (FSA) during 2016. FSAs provide employees a way to use tax-free dollars to pay medical expenses not covered by other health plans. Because eligible employees need to decide how much to contribute through payroll deductions before the plan year begins, many employers this fall are offering their employees the option to participate during the 2016 plan year. Interested employees wishing to contribute during the ... Read More
Six Tax Tips for Year-End Charity
Thinking of making a charitable donation during the holiday season this year and want to claim a tax deduction for your gifts?
2015 Tax Provisions for Businesses: A Review
Whether you file as a corporation or sole proprietor here’s what business owners need to know about tax changes for 2015.
2015 Tax Provisions for Individuals: A Review
What individuals and families need to know about tax provisions for 2015.
What is the Individual Shared Responsibility Provision?
The individual shared responsibility provision that requires you, your spouse, and your dependents to have qualifying health insurance for the entire year, report a health coverage exemption, or make a payment when you file.