Tax Deductions and Retirement
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The Complete Retirement Finance Guide to New Tax Law Changes in 2018
It’s the #1 burning question on my readers’ minds these days… What are the most important individual income tax changes I need to know in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017? (It was signed into law in late December) First off, most of the individual income tax changes are in effect from 2018 […]
A Loophole for 529 Plans Losses
Many people who saved for college through 529 savings plans face substantial losses in their accounts. There is a silver lining in the tax law, and it is one reason 529 plans are among the best ways to save for education. Income and gains earned by the 529 account are sheltered. If the account balance […]
Tighter Rules for Charitable Contribution
As readers ready their year-end tax plans, they need to keep in mind recent changes in charitable contribution deduction rules. Congress tightened the rules in the Pension Protection Act of 2006, and the rules affect deductions for most types of charitable contributions on this year’s tax returns. Cash donations. Proper documentation now is needed to […]
More Ways to Boost Medical Deductions
A small percentage of taxpayers deduct medical expenses. That is partly because of the deduction limits. It also is because many people do not know all the costs that qualify for medical expense deductions. Medical expenses can be deducted only by those who itemize expenses on Schedule A. They deduct only the medical and dental […]
How to Maximize Medical Expense Deductions
Medical expense deductions are the elusive goal of many taxpayers. With higher medical expenses than others, retirees are the taxpayers most likely to be able to deduct their medical expenses. They can maximize those deductions by knowing the rules. The definition of deductible medical expenses is broad. Qualified medical expenses, however, can be deducted only […]
Last-Minute Tax Law Extends Deductions
This year more than ever it is advisable to read the instructions carefully and check the IRS’s web site before filing 2006 tax returns. If you use tax preparation software, be sure to download the free updates before completing your returns. Take these precautions because Congress slipped through a new tax law before it adjourned […]
Charitable Deduction Rules
Large charitable gifts require extra detail on your tax return. When a contribution of property is between $500 and $5,000, details must be provided about the gifts on Section A of Form 8283. When the value exceeds $5,000, a qualified appraisal must be included. Complete details about the reporting requirements are in IRS Publication 561 […]
How to Increase Charitable Deductions
Americans wrapped up a big year of charitable giving in 2005. Hurricanes, tsunamis, and other events created needs around the globe, and Americans responded with generosity. Charitable giving is most effective when it is planned. That is why many charities have an official or office with the title Planned Giving. Get the maximum benefit from […]
