Archive for the ‘Individual’ Category

Moving Soon? Let the IRS Know

Tuesday, September 7th, 2010

If you changed your home or business address, notify the IRS to ensure that you receive any refunds or correspondence. Although the IRS uses the postal service’s change of address files to update taxpayer addresses, notifying the IRS directly is still a good idea.There are several ways to do this. (more…)

Gift Taxes

Monday, September 6th, 2010

If you gave any one person gifts in 2010 that were valued at more than $13,000, you must report the total gifts to the Internal Revenue Service. You may have to pay tax on the gifts.

The person who receives your gift does not have to report the gift to the IRS or pay gift or income tax on its value.

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A SIMPLE Retirement Plan for the Self-Employed

Thursday, September 2nd, 2010

Of all the retirement plans available to small business owners, the SIMPLE plan is the easiest to set up and the least expensive to manage.These plans are intended to encourage small business employers to offer retirement coverage to their employees. SIMPLE plans work well for small business owners who don’t want to spend time and high administration fees associated with more complex retirement plans. (more…)

Financial Planning Tips for September 2010

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

Create a Living Will

Discuss with your spouse your wishes concerning health care and funeral arrangements. This is not pleasant, but it is important that others know your preferences should you be incapacitated. Create a Living Will to document your decisions.

Update Your Will

Update your will and the will of your spouse, if you are married.

Review Budget vs. Actuals

Compare August income and expenditures with your budget. Make adjustments as appropriate to your September expenditures. Make sure you have invested your planned savings amount for August.

Federal Tax Due Dates for September 2010

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

September 10

Employees Who Work for Tips – If you received $20 or more in tips during August, report them to your employer. You can use Form 4070.

September 15

Individuals – Make a payment of your 2010 estimated tax if you are not paying your income tax for the year through withholding (or will not pay in enough tax that way). Use Form 1040-ES. This is the third installment date for estimated tax in 2010.

Corporations – File a 2009 calendar year income tax return (Form 1120 or 1120-A) and pay any tax due. This due date applies only if you made a timely request for an automatic 6-month extension.

S corporations – File a 2009 calendar year income tax return (Form 1120S) and pay any tax due. This due date applies only if you made a timely request for an automatic 6-month extension. Provide each shareholder with a copy of Schedule K-1 (Form 1120S) or a substitute Schedule K-1.

Corporations – Deposit the third installment of estimated income tax for 2010. A worksheet, Form 1120-W, is available to help you make an estimate of your tax for the year.

Employers – Nonpayroll withholding. If the monthly deposit rule applies, deposit the tax for payments in August.

Employers – Social Security, Medicare, and withheld income tax. If the monthly deposit rule applies, deposit the tax for payments in August.

 

Don’t Overlook Tax Credits for College

Tuesday, August 31st, 2010

The IRS has sent out a reminder you can still take advantage of the American Opportunity Tax Credit, a tax credit that will help many parents and college students offset the cost of college.  This tax credit is available through December 31, 2010 and can be claimed by eligible taxpayers for college expenses paid in 2009 and 2010.

Here are six important facts from the IRS about the American Opportunity Tax Credit: (more…)

Tax Benefits for Job Seekers

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

Some folks – especially these days – are polishing their resumes and attending career fairs in search of employment. If you are searching for a job this summer, you may be able to deduct some of those expenses on your tax return.

Here are six things you need to know about deducting costs related to your job search. (more…)

Paying Off Debt the Smart Way

Monday, August 9th, 2010

Being in debt isn’t necessarily a terrible thing. Between mortgages, car loans, credit cards, and student loans – most people are in debt. Being debt-free is a great goal, but you should focus on the management of debt, not just getting rid of it. It’s likely to be there for most of your life – and, handled wisely, it won’t be an albatross around your neck. (more…)

Credit Reports: What You Should Know

Friday, August 6th, 2010

How do lenders determine who is approved for a credit card, mortgage, or car loan? Why are some individuals flooded with credit card offers while others get turned down routinely? Because creditors keep their evaluation standards secret, it is difficult to know just how to improve your credit rating. It is important, however, to understand the factors and to review your credit report periodically for any irregularities, omissions, or errors. Reviewing your credit report annually can help you protect your credit rating from fraud and ensure its accuracy.

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What to Do If You Haven’t Filed Your 2009 Return

Wednesday, August 4th, 2010

The failure to file a federal tax return can be costly – whether you end up owing more or missing out on a refund.

There are several reasons taxpayers don’t file their taxes. Perhaps they didn’t know they were required to file. Maybe they just kept putting it off and simply forgot.

Whatever the reason, it’s best to file the return as soon as possible. If you need help, even with a late return, we are ready to assist you.

Here are some things to consider:

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