Now that fall is here and school has started, many teachers are dipping into their own pockets to buy classroom supplies. Doing this throughout the year can add up fast. Fortunately, eligible educators may be…
Time for a “Paycheck Checkup”
The IRS encourages everyone to use the Withholding Calculator to perform a quick “paycheck checkup.” This is even more important following the recent changes to the tax law for 2018 and beyond. The Calculator will…
How to avoid costly tax traps with inherited IRAs
By Liz Farr, CPA September 5, 2017 Over the next few decades, the Gen X and Millennial generations will be the recipients of one of the greatest wealth transfers in history. A portion of…
Ten Key Tax Facts about Home Sales
In most cases, gains from sales are taxable. But did you know that if you sell your home, you may not have to pay taxes? Here are ten facts to keep in mind if you…
Seven Steps for Making Identity Protection Part of Your Routine
The theft of your identity, especially personal information such as your name, Social Security number, address and children’s names, can be traumatic and frustrating. In this online era, it’s important to always be on guard….
Answers to Five of Your Questions about the Premium Tax Credit
The premium tax credit is a refundable credit that helps eligible individuals and families with low or moderate income afford health insurance purchased through a Health Insurance Marketplace. To get this credit, you must meet…
Don’t take the Bait; Avoid Phishing and Malware to Protect Your Personal Data
“Update your account now.” “You just won a cruise!” “The IRS has a refund waiting for you.” In the cyber world of phishing, the sentences are “bait” – lures from emails, telephone calls and texts…
IRS Tax Tips for Deducting Gifts to Charity
The holiday season often prompts people to give money or property to charity. If you plan to give and want to claim a tax deduction, there are a few tips you should know before you…
File on time, even if you can’t pay
Do you owe more tax than you can afford to pay when you file? If so, don’t fail to take action. Make sure to file on time. That way you won’t have a penalty for…
The Health Care Law’s Effect on Your Tax Return
The Affordable Care Act contains tax provisions that affect the 2014 income tax return you file this year. Almost everyone is affected by the individual shared responsibility provision while only people who purchased coverage…
Save Twice with the Saver’s Credit
If you are a low-to-moderate income worker, you can take steps now to save two ways for the same amount. With the saver’s credit you can save for your retirement and save on your taxes…
Michigan to Grant Extensions to Severe Storm and Flooding Victims
State Treasurer Kevin Clinton announced today that the Michigan Department of Treasury will observe the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) tax filing extension, granted to taxpayers who were adversely affected by the severe storms and flooding…
Helpful Articles
Missed the Tax Day deadline? Here’s what taxpayers should do
Taxpayers who missed the recent April filing and payment deadline should know their obligations and the possible consequences if they don’t file or have an overdue tax bill. Taxpayers who owe tax Tax owed and…
What taxpayers need to know about making 2021 estimated tax payments
Small business owners, self-employed people, and some wage earners should look into whether they should make estimated tax payments this year. Doing so can help them avoid an unexpected tax bill and possibly a penalty…
Important Information on Unreceived Stimulus Payments: For Non-Filers and Those Eligible
As we move into the 2020 tax filing season, I know that there are many questions related to missing or partially received Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), also known as stimulus payments. If you were eligible…
Here are the different ways people can pay their federal taxes
The April 18 deadline for individuals to file and pay their federal income tax is just around the corner. While paying taxes is not optional, the IRS offers a variety of ways for people to…
Debunking common myths about federal tax refunds
Once people complete and file their tax return, many of them eagerly await any refund they may be owed. Knowing fact from fiction can help manage expectations as they wait for their money. Myth: Calling…
Millions of taxpayers will receive their second Economic Impact Payments by debit card
The Treasury Department and the IRS are issuing millions of second Economic Impact Payments by prepaid debit card to speed delivery of the payments to as many people as possible. If the Get My Payment tool on IRS.gov shows…
ABLE savings accounts and other tax benefits for persons with disabilities
People with disabilities and their families can use Achieving a Better Life Experience accounts to help pay for qualified disability-related expenses. ABLE accounts are savings accounts that don’t affect eligibility for government assistance programs. Here are some key…
Taxpayers should file their tax return on time to avoid costly interest and penalty fees
Taxpayers should file their tax return by the deadline even if they cannot pay their full tax bill. Taxpayers who owe tax and don’t file on time, may be charged a failure-to-file penalty. This penalty…
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