The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which was signed on January 2, 2013, did not make major changes in the tax rules governing most Americans. But it did create significant tax increases for high-earners. The thresholds identifying “high-earners” differ from one tax provision to the next, leaving many who don’t consider themselves wealthy exposed […]
Read MoreTake another look at HSAs (health savings accounts)
Year after year, health care and medical insurance costs outpace inflation. One survey, for example, found that health insurance premium costs are growing at five times the rate of wages. It’s little wonder, therefore, that business owners and employees are scrambling for ways to curtail health care expenses. In an effort to address this dilemma, […]
Read MoreTax planning if new Medicare taxes apply to you
This year higher-income taxpayers may need to factor additional Medicare taxes into their planning. Not only will the Medicare tax increase on earned income above certain levels, but also a new tax will apply to certain investment income. The traditional Medicare tax has been 2.9% of earned income for self-employed people and 1.45% for employees […]
Read MoreTake 3 steps now to cut your 2013 taxes
One of the best things about a midyear tax checkup is having the time to investigate, plan, and implement strategies that can reduce your current-year taxes. That’s particularly true this year, since tax legislation enacted in January means many rules for 2013 are already in place, and there’s more certainty about what actions will be […]
Read MoreEstimated Taxes: Who needs to pay them?
If the bulk of your taxable income is from wages, your tax liability is probably being covered by withholding from your paychecks. However, if you have income that is not subject to withholding, you may need to pay quarterly tax estimates. Many taxpayers who switch from being an employee to being self-employed find out about […]
Read MoreIRS Plans Jan. 30 Tax Season Opening For 1040 Filers
[IR-2013-2, Jan. 8, 2013] WASHINGTON — Following the January tax law changes made by Congress under the American Taxpayer Relief Act (ATRA), the Internal Revenue Service announced today it plans to open the 2013 filing season and begin processing individual income tax returns on Jan. 30. The IRS will begin accepting tax returns on that […]
Read More
