Do you own a vacation home in the mountains or near the water where you can enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation? If you rent it to tenants while you and your family aren’t using it, the home can be a valuable source of tax deductions, besides providing personal pleasure. In fact, you might even
Category: Tax
Does the Marriage Penalty Still Exist Today?
A couple’s tax situation changes when they get married – for better or worse. Here are the most important things to know if you recently tied the knot or you’re planning to get married later this year. Timing Counts Your marital status as of December 31 determines your tax filing options for the entire year. Even if
New Twists and Turns Taken by EV Credits
Did you buy an electric vehicle (EV) in 2023? Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), passed late in 2022, you may be eligible for a new and improved tax credit, beginning on your 2023 federal income tax return. But the new law also bars certain high-income taxpayers from claiming the credit. What’s more, if you’re looking
Can You Claim Your Parent as a Dependent?
If you pay over half the cost of supporting a parent, your parent is considered your dependent for federal income tax purposes. This treatment potentially entitles you to some significant tax breaks. Here are four potential benefits to consider when you file your 2023 federal income tax return. 1. HOH Filing Status For unmarried individuals,
How Employer-Issued ISOs May Affect Your Taxes
Employer stock options are a potentially valuable asset for recipient employees, especially those who work for start-ups or high-growth companies. For example, many Silicon Valley millionaires reaped sizable windfalls by exercising their employer stock options. Here’s a summary of the federal income tax rules for incentive stock options (ISOs). Tax Planning Objectives Stock options give you
Tax Breaks for Employer-Paid Education Expenses
Is your business struggling with a shortage of skilled workers in today’s tight labor market? One possible option is to invest in education programs to upskill your current employees. This strategy can help bridge the gap at your workplace and build loyalty among workers. Plus, the education may qualify for favorable treatment. Here are some possible
Tips for Reducing the Impact of NIIT
The net investment income tax (NIIT) was enacted more than a decade ago. While repeal has been discussed more than once, it continues to ensnare a growing number of taxpayers. If you’re at risk for this additional tax, there may be some options to reduce your odds of owing it or the amount of your
Spelling Out the Rules for the Net Unrealized Appreciation Tax Break
Are you a small business owner or corporate owner holding appreciated company stock in your 401(k) or other qualified employer-sponsored retirement plan? At some point, you may decide to cash in your stock. If so, you can benefit from an unprecedented federal income tax provision on the books. Briefly stated you can save tax if you
Year-End Bonuses: Tax Issues for Employers and Employees
The holidays are often referred to as “the most wonderful time of year” – and, for some people, that’s due in part to their year-end bonuses. While bonuses are an important part of rewarding employee performance and enhancing retention, they also can raise a variety of tax issues for both employers and employees. Here’s what you
Year-End Holiday Parties and Gifts: What’s Taxable?
The holidays are just around the corner, and now is the time for employers to start thinking about treating their employees with holiday parties or gifts. Such gestures are always a nice idea. Plus in a tight labor market, they can be a smart way to show appreciation and boost retention. But you need to know