It’s Time to Start Preparing for Your 2017 Taxes
The tax season is officially over for most people, and by now many taxpayers have already put their refund to good use. However, while almost everyone would rather not think about taxes for the next 10 months, or so, the fact is, this is a good time to start looking at next year’s taxes. In fact, by taking a close look at this year’s return, you can learn some important things for next year.
So here are some things to pay attention to. First off, did you get a large refund, or did you end up owing the IRS money? Chances are, one way or the other you need to take a look at your W-4. If you get a big refund then you are probably having too much withheld. On the other hand, if you still owed the IRS money then you are not having enough withheld.
Your 401k is another thing to revisit. Are you maxing it out? If not, then you are missing out on some extra tax savings. Of course, if you need that money now then you can only set aside so much. However, if you can afford to put more away for later, then you should definitely take full advantage of it.
Another good thing to start planning for right now is your list of deductions. Start tracking your receipts and keeping an accurate record. This will help you when you try to figure out your itemized deductions next year.
Lastly, if you like to make charitable donations then you could use your IRA to make those contributions. You get to help a good cause and the contribution won’t hurt your adjusted gross income.
http://www.cnbc.com/2017/04/07/ignore-these-2016-tax-lessons-at-your-peril.html
Overconfidence Steps Up
Overconfidence Steps Up Overconfidence is irritating to the onlooker. In a public place, we resent those exhibiting this trait. We think them as arrogant and pushy. We see a man disrespect others in his wake and we loath him. “How could he be so inconsiderate?” And we avoid being tossed by the waves of his…
Try These Smart Tax Saving Moves Before the Year Ends
Try These Smart Tax Saving Moves Before the Year Ends It’s really the middle of November already. Thanksgiving is just a few days away and Christmas is soon to follow. People are grateful for many things at this time of year, but one of them isn’t taxes. Of course, the real tax season doesn’t begin…
Where Do Californians Stand On Taxes?
Where Do Californians Stand On Taxes? California’s high ranking on the tax meter is well documented. The state is among the highest in the nation for both income taxes and business taxes. It ranks high in several other tax categories as well, including sales tax, property tax and even the gas tax. The Golden State…
Why Do California’s Tax Problems Continue?
Why Do California’s Tax Problems Continue? It’s the classic adage made famous from the movie Robin Hood: “Rob from the rich and give to the poor.” Although Robin Hood may have meant well and his actions noble, the idea of taking more from the rich to give to the poor is not always wise when…