Making home improvements can lower your capital gains tax, but that may change in 2013. Q: In 1975, my parents built a four bedroom house on Cape Cod and they put my name on the deed with theirs. My parents died quite some time ago, so I have had the house since then. For most [...]
2012 is coming to a close, thank goodness. It’s been a turbulent year. Perhaps, like me, you’ve gotten so absorbed in everyday trivia that you’ve lost track of time. Well, it’s time to look up and do some last-minute things to clear our heads, homes, and tax issues. 1) Do winter house-clearing. Empty out closets [...]
As we all know, it’s important to get the details right when you are filing taxes. When it comes to charitable contributions, it’s even more important. The Tax Code doesn’t just require the paperwork to show the amount donated, it requires you to get the receipts on time—and those receipts must clearly specify that you [...]
The other day, someone asked me about prepaying next year’s rent on his business. That sounded like a pretty good idea to him because he said he could really use the tax deduction this year. Wouldn’t it be terrific if this concept could really work? Basically, cash-basis taxpayers do get to deduct their payments in [...]
Short sales are the only options for many homeowners, but its tax implications continue to affect the housing market. There is very little that makes short sellers happy these days. But we recently heard from one who finally at least made peace with his problem. It took two years, but our correspondent finally closed on [...]
Many consumers are worried about how to protect themselves from potential 2013 tax hikes. We talked with Certified Financial Planner Rick Rodgers, who discusses how to handle the potential changes coming next year. Please consult your own financial planner or tax advisor before acting. Q: How will a tax hike in 2013 affect IRAs, and [...]
To check for an IRS Property Tax Lien, you can use the Internet. Each state's method of filing IRS tax liens will differ slightly. Q: How can I check for an IRS property tax lien using the Internet? I am housebound and can't get to the county courthouse. A: While you might not be able [...]
Disclaimer: This blog post was written before the election and is meant to summarize the possible effects of the end of the Bush-era tax cuts. I hope you enjoyed all the presidential debates last month—and I also hope that you are are happy with the election results. Perhaps now our elected officials can get back [...]
Disclaimer: This blog post was written before the election and is meant to summarize the possible effects of the end of the Bush-era tax cuts. In part one of this series, I outlined the changes that could affect individuals on January 1, 2013, if the Bush tax cuts are allowed to expire. In part two, [...]
There may be a new line on your tax return when you’re filing taxes next year. Have you paid sales taxes on any of your online purchases? Recently, there was a shopping frenzy in California as shoppers rushed to make major purchases before Amazon.com was required to start charging California sales tax. What’s wrong with [...]
