Tax

Do you have a tax-saving flexible spending account (FSA) with your employer to help pay for health or dependent care expenses? As the end of 2021 nears, there are some rules and reminders to keep in mind. An account for health expenses A pre-tax contribution of $2,750 to a health Flexible Spending Account is permitted […]

As we approach the holidays, many people plan to donate to their favorite charities or give money or assets to their loved ones. Here are the basic tax rules involved in charitable contributions and gifts. Donating to charity Normally, if you take the standard deduction and don’t itemize, you can’t claim a deduction for charitable […]

The Social Security Administration recently announced that the Social Security wage base for computing Social Security taxes will increase to $147,000 for 2022 (up from $142,800 for 2021). Wages and self-employment income above this threshold aren’t subject to Social Security tax. Background information The Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) imposes two taxes on employers, employees […]

Are you considering a move to another state when you retire? Perhaps you want to relocate to an area where your loved ones live or where the weather is more pleasant. But while you’re thinking about how many square feet you’ll need in a retirement home, don’t forget to factor in state and local taxes. […]

Have you heard of the “nanny tax?” Even if you don’t employ a nanny, it may apply to you. Hiring a house cleaner, gardener or other household employee (who isn’t an independent contractor) may make you liable for federal income and other taxes. You may also have state tax obligations. If you employ a household […]

The House Ways and Means Committee is working on a $3.5 trillion spending and tax package the Democrats are hoping to pass through the budget and reconciliation process, which would not require support from the Republicans. Many of the new tax legislation provisions included in this bill includes elements from President Biden’s Build Back Better […]

If you’re fortunate enough to own a vacation home, you may want to rent it out for part of the year. What are the tax consequences? The tax treatment can be complex. It depends on how many days it’s rented and your level of personal use. Personal use includes vacation use by you, your relatives […]

If you own a valuable piece of art, or other property, you may wonder how much of a tax deduction you could get by donating the artwork to charity. The answer to that question can be complex because several different tax rules may come into play with such contributions. A charitable contribution of a work […]

Studies have found that more people are engaging in online gambling and sports betting since the pandemic began. And there are still more traditional ways to gamble and play the lottery. If you’re lucky enough to win, be aware that tax consequences go along with your good fortune. Review the tax rules Whether you win […]

Given the escalating cost of health care, there may be a more cost-effective way to pay for it. For eligible individuals, a Health Savings Account offers a tax-favorable way to set aside funds (or have an employer do so) to meet future medical needs. Here are the main tax benefits: Contributions made to an HSA […]