Play the Match Game. Or Else…

Play the Match Game. Or Else…

A great tip to stay out of the audit spotlight. One of the best audit tips available can be summed up in one simple word – Match. Spend a minute or two pretending you work for the IRS. What would you do to identify tax returns worth auditing? If you suggest matching...
A Tip to Avoid Late Payment Penalties

A Tip to Avoid Late Payment Penalties

What to do if you miss a quarterly estimated tax payment Many clients like to keep their Federal Tax withholdings as low as possible to avoid the IRS having their funds interest-free throughout the year. Other taxpayers, especially those with non-payroll income, must...
Deductions for Non-Itemizers

Deductions for Non-Itemizers

Can’t itemize? There are still tax breaks for you. A common misconception in tax filing has been that if you use the standard deduction versus itemizing your deductions you have few additional benefits available to reduce your tax bill. This is often not the...
Deductions for Non-Itemizers

Deductions for Non-Itemizers

Can’t itemize? There are still tax breaks for you. A common misconception in tax filing has been that if you use the standard deduction versus itemizing your deductions you have few additional benefits available to reduce your tax bill. This is often not the...
The Taxability of Prizes

The Taxability of Prizes

What everyone should know When you win a prize, there are really two winners: you and the taxing authorities. Should you be fortunate enough to win that trip of a lifetime to the French Riviera in your new yacht, here is what you need to know. Prizes and taxes Prizes...
Understanding Tax Terms: Basis

Understanding Tax Terms: Basis

Covering the bases on basis Basis is a common IRS term, but probably does not enter into your everyday conversation. This IRS term is important because it impacts the taxes you pay when you sell, exchange or give away property. What basis is The IRS describes basis...
Save Those Receipts!

Save Those Receipts!

These tips are money in your pocket When it comes to taking qualified deductions on your tax return, having proper documentation to prove your expenditure is a must. Here are some typical areas where taxpayers often fall short, costing them plenty during tax filing...
Social Security: Know the Variables

Social Security: Know the Variables

It’s never too early to understand how it works Determining the best time and best way to take Social Security benefits can make a big difference in the amount you receive over the balance of your lifetime. What is prudent, is understanding how it works and, if...
PII. Know it. Protect it.

PII. Know it. Protect it.

The importance of personally identifiable information Personally Identifiable Information, or (PII), is in the spotlight at the IRS, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Labor (DOL), plus other federal agencies. Moving beyond the buzz and into...
Don’t Fall for These 5 Audit Myths

Don’t Fall for These 5 Audit Myths

When it comes to the perception of IRS audits, conjecture reigns supreme. The combination of the complex tax code and a government agency with the full authority to enforce it leads to some pretty wild ideas. Here are five audit myths that, if believed, can cost you...