There’s Still Time to Cut Your 2016 Tax Bill

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

Posted in

Huge Decisions Loom for Lawmakers on Obamacare Taxes

  One of the biggest calling cards of the Republican Party for the last several years, including President Donald Trump, has been to repeal the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Although Obamacare has faced much opposition throughout its existence, recent polls suggest that most Americans don’t want it repealed, especially if there is…

Taxes: DIY or Hire a Professional?

  Are you struggling with that ever-so-common question at this time of year: When will the sun come out again so I can play golf? Not that question. This one: Should I do my taxes myself or hire a professional? This is a very important question because the consequences of your choice can be significant.…

CAPITAL GAINS Taxes: DETERMINING YOUR TAX BASIS

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…

When Should You Receive Your Tax Refund?

  The top question on everyone’s mind at tax season is when will get my refund? After all, that’s the only incentive people really have to do their taxes. The problem is the answer is never set in stone. Despite claims from the IRS that just about everyone should receive their refund within 21 days…