There’s Still Time to Cut Your 2016 Tax Bill
![shutterstock_478129582-[Converted]](https://groco.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/shutterstock_478129582-Converted.png "shutterstock_478129582-[Converted]")
So with tax season officially kicking off next week, as the IRS will begin receiving returns on January 23rd, it would seem that the time to save money on your 2016 taxes is now gone. However, there is still a nice tax break available for this year all the way up till April 18th (the tax filing deadline for 2017). You can still use your contributions to a traditional IRA as a deduction on your 2016 tax return.
In fact, you can even contribute as much as $5,000 for both the 2016 and 2017 tax years; and if you’re older than 50 you can also contribute an extra $1,000 for each year as a catch-up contribution. While you can also do the same for a Roth IRA those contributions are not eligible for a tax deduction. Also, keep in mind that this limit applies to all your IRA accounts. You cannot contribute $5,000 to each, but rather $5,000 collectively.
This is a great way for just about anyone to lower their tax bill, including investors that don’t currently have an IRA set up. The savings can be significant. For example, if you contribute the maximum of $5,500 (for taxpayers under 50 years of age who fall in the 25 percent tax bracket) you would save $1,375 on your tax bill for 2016.
The good news doesn’t end there, because, of course, in addition to the nice tax savings you will also be creating a nice retirement fund for those golden years, which is another a great reason to open and contribute to an IRA. If you need help with this tax-saving idea then contact us today.
http://host.madison.com/business/investment/markets-and-stocks/you-could-still-lower-your-taxes—-here/article_8ba9e540-1177-5ba8-9230-c03650001cef.html
Will Contests: A Good Offense is the Best Defense
Will Contests: A Good Offense is the Best Defense When an elderly grandmother leaves all of her assets to a new beau, or Dad leaves everything to the child who visited most in the nursing home, a will challenge may be in the offing. Will contests generally are brought by unhappy family members who feel…
Capital Gains: Determining Your Tax Basis
Capital Gains: Determining Your Tax Basis The two chief forms of income for most people are “earned” and “unearned” income. Earned income (generally, your compensation for work that you do) is taxed at rates beginning at 10% and rising to 38.6% (in 2003). Capital gain, the income earned from your investments, receives preferential treatment. The…
Making the Most of Home Equity: Tips for Senior Citizens
Making the most of home equity For senior citizens living on fixed incomes, the need to replace a car or do substantial home repairs can disrupt finances. Major unplanned expenses caused by illness or disability can lead to financial disaster. Fortunately, many senior citizens are sitting on a major financial asset: the equity in their…
Keeping Your Health Insurance Premiums Low
Keeping Your Health Insurance Premiums Low Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer tax deductions for medical expenses, and the opportunity to set up an additional retirement account. But regardless of any other positive benefit of HSAs, lower premiums are the primary reason that thousands of Americans have chosen Health Savings Accounts as the best way to…