Taxes

An investment can increase substantially in value without creating an immediate federal income tax bill. In a taxable account, gains generally aren’t taxed until the asset is sold. That tax deferral can be valuable, but when and how the gain is eventually realized can have a significant effect on the…

The 65-day rule can give certain trusts more flexibility when deciding when to distribute income to beneficiaries. The IRS may treat an eligible distribution made during the first 65 days of a new tax year as though it occurred in the prior year. This can potentially shift taxable income from…

Most people are used to seeing sales tax on a receipt, but not every purchase includes it. When it doesn’t, you may still owe tax on that purchase through what’s called a use tax. This comes up most often with online shopping, out-of-state purchases and private sales. Understanding the difference…

Most people see taxes come out of their paycheck without thinking much about where the money goes. Federal taxes follow one set of rules no matter where you live, but state taxes vary widely depending on your location. Some states have no income tax at all while others take a…

Paying off your mortgage early saves you money on interest but it can also change your tax situation. Once the mortgage is gone you lose the mortgage interest deduction, which may reduce the total amount you can itemize on your tax return. That could mean a higher taxable income than…

Home improvements can make your home more comfortable, raise its value and lower energy costs over time. Some projects may also qualify for tax credits or deductions. These tax breaks can reduce what you owe when you file your taxes. In other cases, the cost of improvements can increase your…

Missing a tax filing deadline can feel like a minor slip, but the financial consequences can snowball quickly. The IRS imposes strict penalties on taxpayers who fail to file on time, and those penalties grow with every month that passes without action. Knowing how these penalties work, whether you owe…

The tax code offers meaningful incentives for charitable giving, but many donors don’t fully benefit from them. Without a deliberate strategy, charitable contributions often provide little to no tax advantage. With the right approach, however, charitable giving can reduce income tax through deductions, capital gains tax through donations of appreciated…

Dentists tend to face a distinct set of tax considerations. Most earn high incomes, own practices that generate business deductions, and regularly purchase equipment — all of which can significantly affect their tax liability. Dental practices are also classified as specified service trades or businesses (SSTBs) under federal tax rules,…

Physicians tend to start earning later than most professionals after years of training, and many carry significant student debt by the time they begin practicing. Once they reach attending-level income, however, they often move into higher tax brackets quickly. Whether a doctor works as a hospital employee or runs a…