Even with a relatively low unemployment rate (averaging around 4.4% over the past year), layoffs and terminations continue to affect workers across many industries. If you’ve recently lost your job, you’re likely focused on replacing income and evaluating your next steps. But some tax implications related to a job loss also may require attention. Here […]
Many parents don’t know that the so-called “kiddie tax” exists. Others assume it affects only minor children. But it also can apply to full-time students through age 23 and 18-year-olds even if they aren’t full-time students. When it applies, most of the child’s unearned income may be taxed at the parent’s higher tax rate. The purpose of […]
If you’re self-employed, you probably have questions about deducting business expenses on your federal income tax return. Here’s a quick overview of the filing requirements for sole proprietors and independent contractors, and five examples of expense deductions that are commonly overlooked or misunderstood. Filing basics Sole proprietors and independent contractors must report their business activity […]
Many modern businesses rely on intangible assets, such as goodwill, trademarks and customer lists. But the IRS doesn’t treat all intangibles the same way. Questions about how these assets are taxed often arise when a business is sold, ownership changes hands, or intellectual property is licensed or transferred. Generally, intangibles qualify as capital assets that generate capital […]
If you give artwork to charity, the deduction you can claim depends on several factors, including the type of organization receiving the piece and how it will be used. Special substantiation and appraisal rules may apply as well. Relation to charitable function Your deduction for a donation of art will generally be reduced if the […]
Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, family or lifestyle reasons, state taxes can have a significant financial impact. Taxes vary widely from state to state. And establishing residency for tax purposes may be more complicated than you expect. Before moving, be sure you understand how changing states could affect your overall tax situation. A variety […]
Many taxpayers discover at filing time that their tax payments during the year didn’t align with their actual liability — either too much or too little was withheld from their paychecks. A small difference is to be expected, but withholding that’s significantly off target can have negative consequences. Overwithholding reduces the amount available to you […]
If you run your business as a C corporation, you may be eligible for a potentially significant tax break for qualified small business (QSB) stock. This opportunity has existed for years, but recent tax law changes have enhanced it. What’s a QSB corporation? QSB corporations are a special type of C corporation. At the entity level, QSB […]
Yes, the April 15 tax deadline is now behind us. But there are also deadlines during the rest of the year that are important to be aware of. To help you not miss any, here’s when some key tax-related forms, payments and other actions are due. Keep in mind that this list isn’t all-inclusive. There […]









