A successful estate plan takes more than good intentions. If you do not have a Will in place, a nameless, faceless court will decide how your assets will be distributed. This is one of many pitfalls you could face if you do not revisit your estate plan, as your family situation or federal and state laws change. For more information on areas you should consult your estate planning attorney or tax adviser on, read this Financial Strategy.
Of the two sure things in life, death and taxes, you might be surprised to know taxes have nearly an equally lengthy history. The United States was founded in large part to avoid taxes; however, once the Constitution gave Congress the authority to tax in 1789, citizens have weathered scores of changes. For more on the history of U.S. taxation, read this C.P.A.Insight.
For a minor to own investments in his or her own name, a custodial account must be used. A custodial account is established through the Uniform Gift/Transfer to Minors Act and allows a custodian to control a savings account until the child reaches the age of majority, when the account becomes the sole possession of the child. For more information about custodial accounts and to learn about some the advantages and disadvantages, read this Financial Strategy.
In the event that you move, you are required to inform the IRS of your new address and contact information so that they can update it in their files. If you fail to do so, any vital information regarding your taxes that is sent to your "last known address" is legally effective, even if you never received it. For more information about the steps to take to keep your information up-to-date with the IRS, read this C.P.A Insight.
New Year’s Resolutions not only give you goals to aim for throughout the year, but they can also save you money in the process. By spending more time with family and friends, living a healthier life and helping others, your chances of living a more enjoyable life are increased. For more information about some of the most common New Year’s Resolutions and a little financial insight regarding them, read this C.P.A Insight.
There are several benefits involved when dealing with tax-loss selling, which is selling a stock that has lost value in order to realize a taxable loss. Losses can be used to eliminate both long-term and short-term gains. For more on tax-loss selling and an example of its benefits, read this C.P.A. Insight
Stock options have become a very popular way of compensating or providing added benefits to employees. Two types of stock options are Nonqualified Stock Options and Incentive Stock Options. Both options require proper planning and timing to minimize the tax consequences. For more information about income and stock options and to learn more about what each one entails, read this C.P.A. Insight.
While you might dabble in real estate, you must be classified as a real estate professional before you can deduct job-related losses in full on your income tax return.
Teaching children about the concept of money can be a simple lesson with a lifetime of benefits.
By using the Gift Tax Exclusion in your estate and income tax planning, you can give up to $12,000, per resident, per year, free of gift tax. This tax rule allows you to ensure the financial security of your family and loved ones. For more information about how to take advantage of a gift-giving program, read this C.P.A Insight.
