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.
What Happened to California’s Tax Revenue in May?
Where has all of California’s money gone? Ok, so the state isn’t bankrupt or anything like that, but according to recent reports, the state’s tax revenues fell short by 5.5 percent in the month of May. That marks the first time in six months that California’s revenues have not reached expectations. In fact, that 5.5…
Beware the Pump: Another Gas Tax Is on the Way
If you’ve had enough with California’s high gas prices, then you might not want to keep reading, because just when you thought things couldn’t get any worse, they are about to. That’s because when 2015 rolls around California residents are going to have to pay another new gas tax. In fact it’s a double-digit hike…
Try These Five Tips For Tax Savings in 2014
Everyone loves to save on their taxes, especially since it seems like the government never runs out of ways to add to American’s tax bill. So let’s discuss some helpful tips to reduce your tax bill. Although it might be too late to implement these ideas for last year’s return – unless you file an…
As Property Values Soar In California, So Do the Tax Bills
As Property Values Soar In California, So Do the Tax Bills When it comes to taxes, sometimes it seems like if it’s not one thing, then it’s another. During the recession, when the housing market was taking a hit due to dropping property values, county tax assessors across the state actually dropped property tax bills…