For many people, December 31 means a New Year’s celebration. However, from a tax perspective, it means thinking about which filing status a taxpayer will use for that year’s tax return. This article reviews the five statuses. A sidebar looks at whether a married person can file as “head of household.”
The IRS issued Schedule K2 and K3 beginning in tax year 2021 requiring S corporations and partnerships to report additional information related to certain foreign transactions.
On April 15th, 2022, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed the 2021 Wisconsin Act 258 into law.
Many people want to make gifts of cash and stocks to loved ones during the holidays and at year-end. If properly used, the annual exclusion allows you to give to family members and loved ones and reduce the size of your taxable estate, within limits. This article provides details.
What are the tax implications when a taxpayer who owns a vacation home rents it out? The answer depends on various factors, such as the amount of time rented out and the number of days used by the owner. The calculation of taxable income can be complex. This article explains.
Long-term care — including nursing home care — is expensive. Generally, tax issues aren’t top of mind when someone enters a nursing home. But for those who pay the bills, there may be tax breaks that help offset the cost, such as the ability to deduct expenses that exceed a certain level. This article and a sidebar provide details.
Employer-provided life insurance can be a great benefit, with the cost of part of it excluded from an employee’s taxable income. Participating employees need to be aware that this exclusion only applies to the first $50,000 in coverage, and the employer-paid cost of the excess will be reported on the employee’s Form W-2. This is true even if the life insurance is never received. A sidebar reveals how the value of that taxable income is determined.
Business owners may be wondering whether alternative energy technologies can help them manage their business energy costs. A valuable federal income tax benefit — in the form of a business energy credit — applies to the acquisition of many types of alternative energy property. The credit is intended primarily for business users of alternative energy. This article provides details.
Many taxpayers incur significant investment-related expenses, which might include payment for financial service subscriptions, clerical support and home office maintenance. Under current tax law, these expenses aren’t deductible through 2025 if they’re considered investment expenses to produce income. If they’re considered trade or business expenses, however, they are deductible. This article explains the difference between a trader and an investor. A brief sidebar describes a court case to illuminate that difference.
Business owners may be able to hire their minor children this summer and get tax breaks and other nontax benefits. While owners save on payroll taxes and lower some costs, the kids also benefit. They can gain on-the-job experience, learn practical skills and at the same time learn how to manage money. A sidebar notes that earned income can help young workers get an early start on funding a retirement plan.