Tax Planning

The rules for deducting depreciation expenses on vehicles used for business purposes have been liberalized under current tax law, but they remain complicated. In addition, annual inflation adjustments make allowable depreciation deductions moving targets. (See “First-Year Depreciation Deductions under the TCJA,” below.) Here’s how to calculate depreciation deductions for cars, SUVs, pickups and vans used in […]

Many people dream of turning a hobby into a regular business. Perhaps you enjoy boating and would like to open a charter fishing business. Or maybe you’d like to turn your sewing or photography skills into an income-producing business. You probably won’t have any tax headaches if your new business is profitable over a certain […]

Interest rates on residential mortgage loans have increased significantly over the last few years. If your adult child or another family member needs a mortgage to buy a home, the interest expense may be unaffordable. Plus, skyrocketing home values and low inventories of for-sale properties in most parts of the country are presenting challenges to prospective […]

Vacation homes in upscale areas may be worth way more than owners paid for them. That’s great, but what about taxes? Here are three scenarios to illustrate the federal income tax issues you face when selling an appreciated vacation home. Scenario 1: You’ve never used the home as your primary residence In this case, the […]

If you’re an “experienced” taxpayer, you’re probably entitled to some age-based federal income tax breaks that younger taxpayers can’t claim. Here are some details to help you take advantage of two valuable opportunities to lower your federal income tax obligations. Make Retirement Account Catch-Up Contributions If you’re age 50 or older, you can make extra “catch-up” […]

The tax filing deadline for 2023 tax returns is April 15 this year. If you need more time, you can file for an extension until October 15. In either case, once your 2023 tax return has been successfully filed with the IRS, there may still be some issues to bear in mind. Here are three […]

The general business credit (GBC) may help certain small businesses cut their federal income tax obligations significantly. This is an “umbrella” credit that encompasses various business-related credits, which are far more valuable than tax deductions. While deductions reduce only your taxable income, tax credits directly offset your tax liability on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Understanding the GBC […]

The April 15 tax filing deadline is right around the corner. However, you might not be ready to file. Sometimes, it’s not possible to gather your tax information by the due date. If you need more time, you should file for an extension on Form 4868. An extension will give you until October 15 to […]

Once you’re married, you have two options when it comes to filing your annual federal income tax return — married filing jointly or married filing separately. While some couples may find it more tax-efficient to file separately, joint filing often is more advantageous. Benefits of Filing Jointly Married couples who file their federal income tax return […]

The head of household (HOH) federal tax filing status is often misunderstood by taxpayers who might qualify, including single, divorced or legally separated parents, and taxpayers who support adult family members. However, it’s worth exploring, because you could reap substantial savings at tax time. Benefits of HOH Status The IRS enumerates several advantages from qualifying for […]