Like it or Not, Now Is the Time to Think About Taxes
There are still several days before we officially celebrate Christmas, which means people still have plenty to do, including finding those important last-minute gifts. However, if you are done with your shopping, maybe you can put Christmas aside for a moment and focus on taxes. Taxes are probably the last thing you want to think about right now, but if you wait too long the chance to save some money could melt away as fast as spring snow.
Even though you don’t have to turn your taxes in until April, the choices you make now can make a huge difference. With so many tax considerations still up in the air, along with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), there are lots of things to think about, and plan for.
For starters, you can get a better idea of how the ACA will affect you by using the Tax Policy Center ACA Calculator found here. This will give you a better idea of how the ACA and all its intricacies will affect your 2014 tax return. Another possible trouble spot for taxpayers is the continued uncertainty in Washington regarding several tax breaks that expired at the end of last year. Stay tuned.
Of course, there are some measures you can take no matter what lawmakers decide to do. For example, when you have stocks that do well it can help to sell other less-successful stocks. Doing so can help offset your capital gains. Another way to save is to contribute as much as possible to you retirement account. Using up flexible spending accounts before the year is over is also usually a smart move, as is making charitable donations. All of these steps can make for a happier tax return.
If you would like other tax saving tips to help you plan for your return, then contact us online today at GROCO, or call us at 1-877-CPA-2006.
The Research and Development Tax Credit: Claim What You Deserve
The Research and Development Tax Credit: Claim What You Deserve By Shane T. Frank Many manufacturers are not aware that federal and state research and development (R&D) tax credit programs exist that may reward their day-to-day efforts aimed at producing a more efficient product. The Research and Development Tax Credit is a government-sponsored benefit that…
8 Rules of Building Wealth
8 Rules of Building Wealth Forget Performance; look at fees! Remember that it’s not what you make, it’s what you keep. When evaluating an investment evaluate the cost to generate an investment return. If you are using an investment manager compare the performance of the investment net of fees. Be careful when entering into non-tradition…
Is Accounting Boring?
Is Accounting Boring? By William Brighenti I’ve noticed on Twitter a bunch of tweets from younger people complaining that accounting is boring. This may very well be true for those who are not accountants. Non-accountants include those individuals who once loved accounting until they took intermediate accounting in college and then switched their major to…
Business Plan
Business Plan A business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals, and serves as your firm’s resume. The basic components include a current and pro forma balance sheet, an income statement, and a cash flow analysis. It helps you allocate resources properly, handle unforeseen complications, and make good business decisions. Because it provides specific…