How to Avoid Capital Gains Taxes
For many of the nation’s high net worth individuals, much of their wealth comes from capital gains. Capital gains are better than income because they are taxed at a much lower percentage than other income. While capital gains taxes could be going down under the Trump administration, it still pays to know every trick in the book to avoid paying more taxes on them than you have to.
With that mind, let’s look at some of the important tips you should know in order to keep your capital gains taxes low. One smart move is to use a tax-advantaged retirement account when you invest. When you use a retirement account to invest, your money is allowed to grow tax-deferred, instead of paying a tax on the gains like a normal investment. Plus, if you use a Roth IRA, even your withdrawals are tax-free.
Additionally, the longer you hold your investments the less you will pay in taxes. If you hold an investment for a year or less then you will pay a percentage rate equal to your ordinary income. If you hold them longer than a year your rates decrease substantially.
Always look for opportunities to sell your underperforming stocks in order to offset the gains from your successful stocks. This will lower your tax bill. Lastly, keep track of your home improvements so when it comes time to sell your home you can use those expenses as deductions from any gains you make on the sale price of your home.
https://www.fool.com/retirement/2017/02/07/4-tips-for-avoiding-capital-gains-tax.aspx
Retirement Income – Will You Have Enough?
Retirement Income – Will You Have Enough? You could spend as much time in retirement – 30 or even 40 years – as you have spent saving for it. That is why planning for your retirement savings to generate income is critical. Developing a solid plan and appropriate investments for years of income is well…
Systematic Investing: Retirement Plan Opportunities
Systematic Investing: Retirement Plan Opportunities Tax-deferred retirement plans, especially the popular 401(k) plans, have become the key to building financial independence through regular, systematic investing. Take full advantage of your opportunities. Self-employed? Start your own retirement plan. Employed by others but not covered by a retirement plan? If neither you nor your spouse has access…
Retirement Plan Penalties: Failing To Make the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)
Retirement Plan Penalties: Failing To Make the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Failing to make the Required Minimum Distribution from a retirement plan can result in one of the IRS’ highest penalties. Take these steps to help your senior clients avoid the penalties. Mary Kay Foss, CPA Director Greenstein Rogoff Olsen & Co. LLP One of…
Career Advice Young Individuals Need To Know
Although everyone’s career path is unique, there is career advice all young individuals need to know. For many young people the reality of choosing a career path after college can be very daunting. Unlike students with fairly clear career paths, like those who graduate from law school or medical school, most other students face a…