It’s Time to Start Preparing for Your 2017 Taxes

Shot,Of,An,Attractive,Mature,Businesswoman,Working,On,Laptop,In

 

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

Posted in
These Investing Mistakes Prevent You From Building Your Wealth

These Investing Mistakes Prevent You From Building Your Wealth

These Investing Mistakes Prevent You From Building Your Wealth Why do you invest? Are you looking for a get-rich-quick investment scheme? Or, are you looking to build real, sustainable wealth that will last over the long haul? Most investors want to build wealth over many years. Sure, no one is going to turn down a…

tax tips

Important Year-End Tax Tips That the Wealthy Should Know Now

Important Year-End Tax Tips That the Wealthy Should Know Now High-net-worth individuals have a lot to think about in their often fast-paced financial dealings, not the least of which is how to save on their taxes and keep as much of their wealth from the taxman as possible. Many high-net-worth individuals make a lot of…

As Property Values Soar In California, So Do the Tax Bills

Do You Have a Handle on Your Retirement Taxes?

Do You Have a Handle on Your Retirement Taxes? As you look in the rearview mirror of your career does it seem that the objects are actually getting further away? That means you are probably getting closer to retirement. Retirement can be a great thing for a lot of people, but it can also cause…

taxable savings

Can You Convert Taxable Savings Into Your Roth IRA?

Can You Convert Taxable Savings Into Your Roth IRA? Are you ready for retirement? It’s a common question and it applies to just about everyone at some point. However, being ready for retirement takes a great deal of planning and preparation, and not everyone is as ready as they think. One of the most important…