With the national debt and tax simplification taking front burners these days, there has been a great deal of discussion by both political parties and bi-partisan groups about doing away with or substantially altering itemized deductions. Itemized deductions have been around for as long as most of us can remember, and altering these deductions would have a profound effect on … [Read more...] about Will Itemized Deductions Be A Thing of the Past?
Will Capital Gains Be Changed?
Currently, capital gains rates for the sale of assets held over one year are taxed at 15% (0% to the extent a taxpayer is in the 15% or lower regular tax bracket), compared with a top tax of 35% for ordinary income. Without Congressional action, these rates will increase to 20% (18% for assets held over 5 years) in 2013. Although there has been some discussion related to … [Read more...] about Will Capital Gains Be Changed?
Saver’s Credit Can Help You Save for Retirement
Low- and moderate-income workers can take steps to save for retirement and at the same time earn a special tax credit. The saver’s credit helps offset part of the first $2,000 that workers voluntarily contribute to traditional or Roth Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), SIMPLE-IRAs, SEPs, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans for employees of public schools and certain tax-exempt … [Read more...] about Saver’s Credit Can Help You Save for Retirement
Keep Track of Meal & Entertainment Expenses
When looking for deductions to add to your taxes, don’t overlook your meal and entertainment expenses. These types of expenses must be “ordinary” and “necessary” to your business or trade and must be “directly related to” or “associated with” the active conduct of business. In order for the IRS to allow these deductions, documentation is required and should include the … [Read more...] about Keep Track of Meal & Entertainment Expenses
Eldercare Can Be a Medical Deduction
With people living longer, many individuals find themselves becoming the care provider for elderly parents, spouses and others who can no longer live independently. When this happens, questions always come up regarding the tax ramifications associated with the cost of nursing homes or in-home care. Generally, the entire cost of nursing homes, homes for the aged, and assisted … [Read more...] about Eldercare Can Be a Medical Deduction