Even after your 2020 tax return has been successfully filed with the IRS, you may still have some questions about the return. Here are brief answers to three questions that we’re frequently asked at this time of year. Are you wondering when you will receive your refund? The IRS has an online tool that can […]
Still have questions after you file your tax return? Read More »
Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the number of people engaged in the “gig” or sharing economy had been growing, according to several reports. And reductions in working hours during the pandemic have caused even more people to turn to gig work to make up the lost income. There are tax consequences for the people who
Working in the gig economy results in tax obligations Read More »
The housing market in many parts of the country is strong this spring. If you’re buying or selling a home, you should know how to determine your “basis.” How it works. You can claim an itemized deduction on your tax return for real estate taxes and home mortgage interest. Most other homeownership costs can’t be
Home sales: How to determine your “basis” Read More »
Are you considering buying or replacing a vehicle that you’ll use in your business? If you choose a heavy sport utility vehicle (SUV), you may be able to benefit from lucrative tax rules for those vehicles. Bonus depreciation. Under current law, 100% first-year bonus depreciation is available for qualified new and used property that’s acquired
Need a new business vehicle? Consider a heavy SUV Read More »
The subject of payroll has been top-of-mind for business owners this year. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered economic changes that caused considerable fluctuations in the size of many companies’ workforces. Employees have been laid off, furloughed, and, in some cases, rehired. There has also been crisis relief for eligible businesses in the form of the Paycheck
Now more than ever, carefully track payroll records Read More »
If you invest in mutual funds, be aware of some potential pitfalls involved in buying and selling shares. Surprise sales. You may already have made taxable “sales” of part of your mutual fund investment without knowing it. One way this can happen is if your mutual fund allows you to write checks against your fund
Buying and selling mutual fund shares: Avoid these tax pitfalls Read More »
IRS audit rates are historically low, according to the latest data, but that’s little consolation if your return is among those selected to be examined. But with proper preparation and planning, you should fare well. In the fiscal year 2019, the IRS audited approximately 0.4% of individuals. Businesses, large corporations, and high-income individuals are more
The easiest way to survive an IRS audit is to get ready in advance Read More »
In the COVID-19 era, many parents are hiring nannies and babysitters because their daycare centers and summer camps have closed. This may result in federal “nanny tax” obligations. Keep in mind that the nanny tax may apply to all household workers, including housekeepers, babysitters, gardeners, or others who aren’t independent contractors. If you employ someone
More parents may owe “nanny tax” this year, due to COVID-19 Read More »
While the COVID-19 crisis has devastated many existing businesses, the pandemic has also created opportunities for entrepreneurs to launch new businesses. For example, some businesses are being launched online to provide products and services to people staying at home. Entrepreneurs often don’t know that many expenses incurred by start-ups can’t be currently deducted. You should
Launching a business? How to treat start-up expenses on your tax return Read More »
Many people who launch small businesses start out as sole proprietors. Here are nine tax rules and considerations involved in operating as that entity. 1. You may qualify for the pass-through deduction. To the extent your business generates qualified business income, you are eligible to claim the 20% pass-through deduction, subject to limitations. The deduction
Do you want to go into business for yourself? Read More »