It’s difficult to imagine being convicted of a crime and wrongfully incarcerated. It’s even harder to imagine that when ultimately the truth sets you free the damages you receive are subject to tax. Congress too saw the irony in the fact that awards are often given to assist the wrongfully convicted and incarcerated persons establish …
Do you have a loved one that may be in school, struggling with student loans, or buying a house? Yes? No? To be honest it doesn’t matter, because for this tax savings gifting tip, you don’t need a “qualified” reason or any reason at all! You can simply gift stock, help a loved one out …
We were first introduced to the new W-8BEN (for individuals) and W-8BEN-E (for entities) when the IRS released draft forms applicable to the 2014 tax year. The IRS continues to fine-tune the W-8BEN-E forms and instructions in the 2015 drafts. These forms can seem very complex, especially to foreign entities that may not be familiar …
The rules for making charitable donations from your business are similar to those governing personal donations. For example, you can donate cash or property, your total deduction may be limited, you may need to get an appraisal to establish value, and you have to keep good records. The reporting of the charitable deduction depends on …
If you lose your job, you may qualify for unemployment benefits. The payments may serve as much needed relief. But did you know unemployment benefits are taxable? Here are four key facts about unemployment compensation: Unemployment is taxable. You must include all unemployment compensation as income for the year. You should receive a Form 1099-G, …
All income is taxable unless the law excludes it. Here are some basic rules you should know to help you file an accurate tax return: Taxed income. Taxable income includes money you earn, like wages and tips. It also includes bartering, an exchange of property or services. The fair market value of property or services …
Growing up we used run around pretending that we were pirates finding buried treasure while sailing the dangerous seas. Nineteen years later as new tax interns, we found that pirates have to pay taxes just like everyone else. The tax code identifies income for tax purposes as income from all sources unless it is specifically …
Summer is the perfect time to begin your year-end tax planning so that you have time to identify the strategy (or strategies) that work for you and implement them well before year end. Try to avoid the new 3.8% net investment income tax (NIIT). It only affects higher-income individuals, but that can include anyone who …
Do you feel like you are unique? Don’t follow the crowd? Go your own way? Well, if you went against your norm and followed the pack and were one of the 7.1 million people who signed up for health insurance by the March 31, 2014 deadline, then keep reading. If you receive advance payment of …
There are many age-related financial and planning milestones that you need to be aware of in your sixties. Keep this list in mind. 59 ½ – Penalty Goes Away This is the age at which one can withdraw money from traditional IRAs, 401(k)s or similar retirement plans without restrictions and without an added 10% tax …