New income ranges for IRA eligibility in 2021

There are cost of living adjustments that may affect a taxpayer’s pension plan and other retirement-related savings next year. People should familiarize themselves with these adjustments, so they aren’t caught off guard. Here are some highlights of the 2021 changes: The income ranges for these actions all increased for 2021: Determining eligibility to make deductible … Read more »

IRS Dirty Dozen: Be on the lookout for these scams

Dirty Dozen part 1: Taxpayers should be on the lookout for these scams All tax scams put taxpayers at risk. This is the first of two tips taking a closer look at the IRS Dirty Dozen tax scam list. This year, taxpayers should be especially, watchful for aggressive schemes related to COVID-19 relief, including Economic … Read more »

Major changes to retirement plans due to COVID-19

Qualified individuals affected by COVID-19 may be able to withdraw up to $100,000 from their eligible retirement plans, including IRAs, between Jan. 1 and Dec. 30, 2020. These coronavirus-related distributions aren’t subject to the 10% additional tax that generally applies to distributions made before reaching age 59 and a half, but they are still subject … Read more »

Strong passwords help protect accounts against cybercriminals

Strong passwords help protect accounts against cybercriminals The IRS urges everyone with any type of online account to review new, stronger standards to protect their passwords. Doing so will help protect against savvy cybercriminals who wants to access people’s accounts and steal their identities. Here are three steps people can follow to build a better … Read more »

Tips for teenage taxpayers starting a summer job 

Tips for teenage taxpayers starting a summer job — Now that school’s out, many students will be starting summer jobs…from working at a summer camp to being an office intern. The IRS reminds students that not all the money they earn may make it to their pocket. That’s because employers must withhold taxes from the … Read more »

Early Withdrawals from Retirement Plans

Things to Remember when Considering Early Withdrawals from Retirement Plans Many taxpayers may need to take out money early from their Individual Retirement Account or retirement plan. Doing so, however, can trigger an additional tax on early withdrawals. They would owe this tax on top of other income tax they may have to pay. Here … Read more »

Tapayers Should Protect Data All Year Round

IRS Tax Tip 2017-82, November 27, 2017 During the holiday shopping season, shoppers are looking for the perfect gifts. At the same time, criminals are looking for sensitive data. This data includes credit card numbers, financial accounts and Social Security numbers. Cybercriminals can use this information to file a fraudulent tax return. This tip is … Read more »

Get Credit for Child and Dependent Care

Many parents pay for childcare or day camps in the summer while they work. If this applies to you, your costs may qualify for a federal tax credit that can lower your taxes. Here are 10 facts that you should know about the Child and Dependent Care Credit: 1. Your expenses must be for the care … Read more »

Beware of Fake IRS Emails and Phone Calls

Issue Number:    IRS Tax Tip 2014-19 Beware of Fake IRS Emails and Phone Calls Tax scams that use email and phone calls that appear to come from the IRS are common these days. These scams often use the IRS name and logo or fake websites that look real. Scammers often send an email or call to … Read more »

Form 1099 MISC – Give out or Receive?

Do you have to GIVE OUT a Form 1099 MISC? File Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Income, for each person to whom you have paid during the year at least $600 in rents, services (including parts and materials), prizes and awards, other income payments, medical and health care payments, crop insurance proceeds, cash payments or, generally, the … Read more »