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Taming the tax tangle if you’re retiring soon
Retirement is often viewed as an opportunity to travel, spend time with family or simply enjoy the fruits of a long career. Yet the transition may bring a tangle of tax considerations. Planning carefully can help you minimize tax bills. Below are four steps to take if you’re approaching retirement, along with the tax implications.…
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Financial relief for families: The benefits of the Child Tax Credit
The Child Tax Credit (CTC) has long been a valuable tax break for families with qualifying children. Whether you’re new to claiming the credit or you’ve benefited from it for years, it’s crucial to stay current on its rules and potential changes. As we approach the expiration of certain provisions within the Tax Cuts and…
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You may be able to make a deductible IRA contribution for last year this year
If you’re getting ready to file your 2024 tax return and your tax bill is higher than you’d like, there may still be a chance to lower it. If you’re eligible, you can make a deductible contribution to a traditional IRA until this year’s April 15 filing deadline and benefit from the tax savings on…
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Saving for college: Tax breaks and strategies your family should know
As higher education costs continue to rise, you may be concerned about how to save and pay for college. Fortunately, several tools and strategies offered in the U.S. tax code may help ease the financial burden. Below is an overview of some of the most beneficial tax breaks and planning options for funding your child’s…
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Maximize your 401(k) in 2025: Smart strategies for a secure retirement
Saving for retirement is a crucial financial goal and a 401(k) plan is one of the most effective tools for achieving it. If your employer offers a 401(k) or Roth 401(k), contributing as much as possible to the plan in 2025 is a smart way to build a considerable nest egg. If you’re not already…
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Savings bonds and taxes: What you need to know
When considering the advantages of U.S. Treasury savings bonds, you may appreciate their relative safety, simplicity and government backing. However, like all interest-bearing investments, savings bonds come with tax implications that are important to understand. Deferred interest Series EE Bonds dated May 2005 and after earn a fixed rate of interest. Bonds purchased between May…
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Are you liable for two additional taxes on your income?
Having a high income may mean you owe two extra taxes: the 3.8% net investment income tax (NIIT) and a 0.9% additional Medicare tax on wage and self-employment income. Let’s take a look at these taxes and what they could mean for you. 1. The NIIT In addition to income tax, this tax applies on…
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Working remotely is convenient, but it may have tax consequences
Many employees began working remotely during the pandemic and continue doing so today. Remote work has many advantages for employers and employees, and as a result, it’s here to stay in many industries. But it may also lead to some tax surprises, especially if workers cross state lines. Double taxation may occur It’s not unusual…
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6 tax-free income opportunities
Believe it or not, there are ways to collect tax-free income and gains. Here are some of the best opportunities to put money in your pocket without current federal income tax implications: Roth IRAs offer tax-free income accumulation and withdrawals. Unlike withdrawals from traditional IRAs, qualified Roth IRA withdrawals are free from federal income tax.…
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Is your home office a tax haven? Here are the rules for deductions
Working from home has become increasingly common. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that about one out of five workers conducts business from home for pay. The numbers are even higher in certain occupational groups. About one in three people in management, professional and related occupations works from home. Your status matters If…
