Whether you're hitting the slots in Vegas, buying scratch-offs at the gas station, or playing online poker from your couch, there's one thing all gamblers have in common: Uncle Sam wants his cut. Yep, gambling winnings are taxable. But don’t worry—here’s what you need...
Understanding the Taxation of Social Security Benefits
Social Security benefits play a vital role in retirement planning for many Americans, providing financial stability during their later years. However, a common question arises: Are Social Security benefits taxable? The answer depends on several factors, including...
What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your W-2 Form
When Should You Expect Your W-2? By law, employers must send out IRS Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, by January 31. If you had multiple employers during the tax year, you should receive a separate W-2 from each one. This essential tax document reports your total...
Understanding the Tax Implications of Unemployment Benefits
Unemployment benefits can serve as a financial lifeline for those facing unexpected job loss. If you received unemployment compensation for the first time in 2024, you might be wondering how it impacts your taxes. Since unemployment income is taxable at the federal...
Understanding Business Tax Write-Offs and How They Work
Every business must file taxes, but knowing how to leverage business tax write-offs can significantly reduce your tax liability. Business tax write-offs allow companies to deduct qualifying expenses incurred during operations, ultimately lowering taxable income....
Residency and Tax Benefits for Military Spouses: Understanding Your Rights
Relocating frequently is a reality for military families, bringing with it many logistical and legal challenges. Fortunately, two key laws—the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) and the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018—help ease the burden by...
A Comprehensive Guide to Investment Taxes: What You Need to Know
Investing is a great way to grow wealth, but it also comes with tax implications that every investor should understand. Whether you invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other assets, your earnings may be subject to taxes. This guide will help you navigate...
Tax Refunds in 2025 Are About One-Third Lower Than Last Year—Here’s Why
As tax season unfolds, early data from the IRS indicates that Americans are receiving significantly smaller tax refunds compared to last year. According to the latest update from the IRS, the average tax refund as of February 14, 2025, stood at $2,169—about 32% lower...
Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit: What Businesses Need to Know
Businesses and tax-exempt organizations purchasing qualified commercial clean vehicles may be eligible for a Clean Vehicle Tax Credit of up to $40,000 under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 45W. This credit incentivizes the adoption of environmentally friendly...
Maximizing Tax Savings: A Guide to Itemized Deductions
Itemized deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income, potentially lowering the amount of tax you owe. However, claiming these deductions requires careful tracking of eligible expenses and can be more complex than taking the standard deduction. This guide...
IRA Contributions, Distributions, and Investment Rules: A Comprehensive Guide
IRA Contribution Limits How Much Can You Contribute to an IRA? For 2023, the maximum contribution to an IRA is $6,500, or $7,500 if you're age 50 or older. Contribution limits for 2019-2022 were $6,000 (or $7,000 if age 50 or older), while limits for 2015-2018 were...
Tax Aspects of Home Ownership: Selling a Home
Do you owe taxes when selling your home? Learn how to determine your taxable gain by adjusting your home's cost basis, factoring in home improvements, and utilizing IRS-approved strategies to maximize your tax benefits. Profit on Home Sales Can Be Tax-Free Many home...
It’s interesting to see how Social Security benefits are taxed differently depending on income and location. I didn’t realize only…