Getting a big tax refund might feel like a financial win, but there’s another side to the story. While it’s nice to receive a check from the IRS, that money was yours all along. In essence, you’ve been giving the government an interest-free loan. Let’s take a closer look at tax refunds and how you can keep more of your money throughout the year.
When it comes to managing your taxes, understanding the difference between tax preparation and tax planning can have a major impact on your overall financial health. While both services are vital, they serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. Finding out what sets them apart, and why hiring a CPA to help you with both prep and planning can be a game-changer for your finances.
In today's gig economy, the line between hobby and business can blur quickly. Whether you're selling handmade items online, offering creative services on weekends, or teaching classes after work, understanding when your side hustle becomes a business is crucial for tax compliance and financial success.
Dealing with the IRS can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, even under the best possible circumstances. When you're facing nerve-wracking issues like an audit, back taxes, and other significant tax-related matters, though, the pressure can be enormous. In this situation, it's crucial to understand your options. Two of the more common approaches are mediation and tax resolution. Read on to learn more about these solutions and how partnering with a professional CPA to engage with the IRS on your behalf can make all the difference.
When suspicious sounds underneath your car's hood become more common, and the frequency of trips to the repair shop increases dramatically, one question naturally arises: as your vehicle ages, should you keep repairing your existing car or invest that money into a newer model altogether? How you proceed at this critical juncture can have a significant impact on your financial landscape. Exploring your options with a focus on your long-term financial health is a crucial first step.
We've all heard the warnings: never give out personal information to someone claiming to be from the IRS over the phone. But did you know there are legitimate times when the IRS might need to contact you? Typically, these interactions start with a letter, but how can you be sure you're dealing with a bona fide IRS representative? Let's explore when and how the IRS might contact you and how to recognize legitimate communication from the agency.
Managing your credit responsibly is one of the most important - and impactful - aspects of maintaining a healthy financial outlook. Whether you're shooting for a higher credit score, looking for the best way to manage multiple credit cards, or just keeping track of your expenses, accruing a good foundation of knowledge on the basics can help you make better, more informed decisions. Read on to find key strategies for managing your credit in the best way.
Donating to a non-profit organization supports a cause that is meaningful to the contributor, but to those who are 70 1⁄2 or older, it also offers significant tax advantages. One such method is through Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs). This financial tool allows donors to make substantial charitable contributions while also securing a steady income stream for themselves. If you're eligible, here's how you can leverage CGAs to save on your taxes while contributing to a non-profit you care about.
There's no denying that we're living firmly in the digital age, and the way that we handle financial documents has shifted dramatically over the last decade or so. While digital records are becoming more prevalent, it's still vital to understand which paper documents need to be retained and for how long. If you're ready to nail down the essentials of document management, here are some tips to help you responsibly declutter.
Tax season. It's the time of year when all eyes are on finances, while many eagerly anticipate a tax refund they see as a financial windfall. While everyone loves to have more money show up in their bank account from the IRS, refunds aren't the be-all and end-all when it comes to successful tax planning. Before you put all your eggs in the refund basket, let's explore why owing no tax can be a better, more strategic move that puts you in greater control of your finances.