There are nearly 1,000 different tax forms used by the IRS to report tax obligations. It's no wonder the IRS faces thousands of tax returns with errors each year. Here are some of the most common tax mistakes: Wrong names and Social Security numbers. Taxpayers regularly make common tax mistakes by entering incorrect information for their [...]
A couple of years ago, the U.S. Treasury released a report highlighting a disturbing level of non-compliance in alimony reporting on tax returns. Since the report was released, the IRS has increased the scrutiny they place on tax returns with these claims. If you file a tax return involving alimony, make sure you know the facts [...]
One of the biggest delays in filing your tax return is missing information. Make sure you don't miss some of these commonly overlooked items. Missing your e-file approval. Without your signature, your tax return cannot be filed. Proof of health insurance. You must provide a Form 1095 or other proof that you and your dependents [...]
You may already have big plans for spending your tax refund. Many think of this extra money in black and white terms — you either do something responsible with it or you frivolously spend every last cent of it. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of your tax refund while still having [...]
With the new administration in Washington D.C., tax changes are likely in our future, but the details of those changes are unknown. What we do know about 2017 core tax rates and inflation-adjusted figures will come in handy when you file your 2017 tax return in early 2018. Standard deduction increases. The 2017 standard deduction [...]
Sometimes the tax deadline arrives and you are simply not ready to file. But, if you choose to file for an extension, don't make the mistake of not paying. Filing for an extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. If you owe taxes, they are due on the regular filing [...]
A simple way to think about your 1040 tax return is focusing on a single line, your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Anything "above the line" creates an AGI that can yield tax opportunities or tax consequences for anything "below the line." Being aware of "the line" and the impact it has on your tax return [...]
The filing requirement rules for individual federal income tax returns are fairly straightforward. In general, you are required to file a return based on your filing status, your gross income, and your age. Here's an overview of the rules for 2016 tax returns. Single taxpayers (including those who are divorced or legally separated). If you're [...]
If a fraudster steals your identity, you may find yourself embarking on an unpleasant journey to recover your good name and pilfered finances. Fortunately, tools are available to prevent and minimize potential losses. Here are two options to consider if you suspect your personal data has landed in the wrong hands. Fraud alert. Say you [...]
Failing to file tax returns on time doesn't necessarily make you a criminal, but the penalty for procrastinating can be punishing. What's the price you'll pay? The IRS can assess a failure to file penalty, which is usually 5% of your unpaid taxes per month, up to a maximum penalty of 25%. In addition, there [...]
