The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) warns taxpayers of a new wave of phone scams involving threats to suspend or cancel their Social Security numbers (SSNs). These scams often include false claims of overdue taxes and demands for immediate payment using unconventional methods. Identifying IRS Phone Scams To avoid falling prey to IRS phone scams, taxpayers … Read more
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) is a tax credit that helps families with the cost of raising children. The amount of the credit varies depending on the age of the child and the taxpayer’s income. For 2023, the CTC is worth up to $2,000 per qualifying child. To be eligible for the CTC, the child … Read more
Roth IRAs are popular retirement savings accounts that offer tax-free withdrawals in retirement. However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) imposes income limits on contributions to Roth IRAs. Exceeding these limits can result in penalties and affect your retirement savings strategy. Roth IRA Income Limits The Roth IRA income limits vary depending on your filing status … Read more
Annuities offer tax-deferred growth, meaning you don’t pay income taxes on earnings until you withdraw them. However, the tax treatment of annuities depends on several factors, including the type of annuity, the source of funds used to purchase it, and how you receive payments. Types of Annuities Qualified Annuities Purchased with pre-tax dollars (e.g., from … Read more
Pensions, a form of retirement income, provide financial security during the golden years. However, understanding the tax implications of pension payments is crucial to avoid any surprises or penalties. This guide will delve into the intricacies of pension taxation, exploring the factors that determine taxability, exceptions, and withholding rules. Determining Taxability The taxability of pension … Read more
Day trading, the practice of buying and selling financial instruments within the same trading day, has gained popularity as a potential means of generating income. However, it’s crucial for day traders to be aware of the tax implications associated with their activities to avoid any surprises come tax season. This guide will delve into the … Read more
In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. We share our thoughts, experiences, and even our financial information on these platforms. But what many people don’t realize is that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is also monitoring social media. IRS Monitoring of Social Media The IRS has the authority … Read more
Does the IRS Know When You Buy a House with Cash? Purchasing a house is a significant financial undertaking that necessitates meticulous planning and consideration of tax implications. While many homebuyers opt for traditional mortgage financing, an increasing number are choosing to pay for their homes in cash. This method offers several advantages, including a … Read more
Understanding the Tax Implications of Cash Payments Individuals who receive cash payments for work performed, commonly referred to as “cash-in-hand” income, are legally obligated to declare this income to the relevant tax authorities and pay applicable taxes. Failing to do so can result in severe consequences, including fines, penalties, and even criminal charges. Reporting Cash-in-Hand … Read more
Example: If you want to give $18,000 to your child and $18,000 to your grandchild, you can do so without having to file a gift tax return or pay any gift tax. Understanding the Gift Tax Exclusion The gift tax exclusion is a valuable tool that can help you reduce your taxable estate and avoid … Read more