Why You Should Revisit Your Tax Withholdings 

As the summer draws to a close, the IRS is encouraging taxpayers to take a proactive step: review your tax withholdings or payments now to avoid surprises during next year’s tax season. It is easy to put off thinking about taxes, but making necessary adjustments now can save you from stress—and potential penalties later. 

Working from home has become increasingly common, and with it, the need to understand the tax implications of using your home for business purposes. This guide will help you navigate the requirements and benefits of claiming home office deductions.

Qualifying for Home Office Deductions

To take a business deduction for home office expenses, your home must be used under one of the following scenarios:

Owning a home can be a significant financial commitment, whether you're a current homeowner or planning to buy a home. Fortunately, there are tax benefits available through the IRS that can help you save money and offset some of the costs associated with homeownership. Let’s break down various tax deductions, programs, and housing allowances that homeowners should review to see if they are eligible.

Are you pursuing higher education, job training, or graduate studies? If so, you might be eligible for valuable tax credits to help offset the costs.

The IRS offers two main education tax credits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit. These credits can also apply to your spouse or dependents' educational expenses.

But how do you know if you qualify for these tax credits?

Meeting tax obligations is a critical part of financial responsibility, and the IRS offers various avenues for individuals to handle their tax debt, including payment plans and alternative strategies. It's important to note that while payment plans are available, they can lead to additional costs over time due to accruing interest and penalties, making them a less-than-ideal choice for some taxpayers. Let’s explore how you can navigate this situation:

As we near the end of another tax season, accountants and taxpayers alike are facing a landscape filled with uncertainties. While April 15th, the traditional tax filing deadline, is just around the corner, there are significant matters that remain in limbo due to pending legislation and court decisions. These are topics we have previously delved into in our blogs, and here's an update on where they stand today.

Tax season is not just a time for filing returns; it's also peak season for savvy criminals looking to exploit unsuspecting taxpayers. Scammers often impersonate the IRS through various channels, including over the phone, via email, or physical mail; all with the aim of stealing money and sensitive personal information. To safeguard yourself against these threats, it's crucial for all taxpayers to remain vigilant and well-informed. Here's a guide on how to protect yourself from tax scams.

Receiving a notice from the IRS about a tax audit can be anxiety-inducing, but it's crucial to stay calm and approach the process with preparation and understanding. Contrary to popular belief, an audit does not necessarily indicate suspicion of criminal activity. It's often a routine examination to ensure the accuracy of financial data on tax returns. 

Here's a rundown on how to prepare for and navigate through a tax audit, from understanding the types of audits, your rights during the process, to the conclusion of the audit.

 How long should I retain my past tax returns and records?

The answer is not entirely black and white; it varies based on the type of document and your specific transactions.