2020 Health Savings Account Limits

The savings limits for the ever-popular health savings accounts (HSA) are now set for 2020. The new limits are outlined here with current year amounts noted for comparison. What is an HSA? An HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account whose funds can be used to pay...

2018 Audit Rates

The IRS reported audit rates declined last year for the seventh year in a row and reached their lowest level since 2002. That’s good news for people who don’t like to be audited (which is everybody)! But don’t get complacent. A closer look at the IRS data release...

How to Maximize Your Social Security

You can begin receiving your Social Security retirement benefit as early as age 62. But by putting off your benefit start date you can receive a check that is 8 percent higher for each year you delay receiving your benefit.  The basics Full retirement...

3 Things to Know About Summer Job Taxes

Summer brings warm weather, fun outdoor activities and new opportunities to earn some additional income. However, taxes on seasonal income need to be handled with care, whether they’re related to your child’s first job or an extra income opportunity for you....

The $500,000 Homeowner Tax Break

There is large tax break that allows you to exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 married) in capital gains on the sale of your personal residence. But making the assumption that this gain exclusion will always keep you safe from tax can be a big mistake. Here is what you...

Toss This. Not That.

Tax season is over and yet another tax return has been sent off to the government. But before you close that tax file, there is still some work to do. If the IRS or state revenue department selects your return for review, you will need to be prepared. Here is what you...