When your business makes money, you pay income tax on the profit. What happens when your business deductions are greater than the income in a particular year? In that case, the result is what's called a net operating loss, or NOL, and you may be able to benefit from federal tax rules that allow you [...]
As the end of another year approaches, you're looking for ways to reduce your tax bill. You have a handful of stocks in loss positions. You like the stocks and expect the prices to rebound. Should you sell now at a loss to offset other capital gains, then buy the shares right back again? Not [...]
The rent or buy question is a common dilemma, whether you're asking as a homeowner, or for your business. For perspective, think of the big picture. In either case, you're paying for the exclusive use of an item over a set period of time. With that as a point of reference, the difference boils down to two [...]
Getting divorced? Amid all the upheaval, taxes are not likely to be foremost on your mind. Yet overlooking the tax consequences can be costly. Here are some of the basics. Your filing status will change. No matter if you get your final divorce decree or separate maintenance on January 1, December 31, or any date [...]
As an employee, you may not have thought much about the procedures behind the issuance of your paycheck. But as a new business owner, you'll need to understand how federal employment taxes work because you'll have to withhold these payroll taxes from your employees' paychecks. Here's an overview of four types of payroll tax. Social [...]
Are you a new business owner? You may be wondering how to pay yourself from your business. The answer depends on the way your business is set up. Here are common methods for making payments to business owners. Corporations If you own a traditional C corporation, your salary is subject to income and payroll taxes. [...]
Taxes are an important part of the decision to own real estate. Here's a brief overview of tax benefits you can realize while you own real property, as well as when you sell or otherwise dispose of the property. Current expenses. As a rental property owner, you can deduct current expenses to offset the tax [...]
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 [...]
Whew! You filed your return and now you're ready to forget all about taxes until next year. Not so fast! Your 2015 tax return is a great tool to help you plan for 2016. Here's what to look at. Review your withholding. If you owed tax this year or received a large refund, consider adjusting [...]
