Most people feel some relief after filing their income tax returns each year. But even if you’ve successfully filed your 2024 return, you may still have questions. Here are three common ones: 1. What’s the status of your refund? You can learn the status of your tax refund using an IRS online tool. Go to irs.gov […]
Making a family loan isn’t the only way to assist a loved one with purchasing a home. If you aren’t concerned about being paid back, a straightforward option is gifting cash. In 2025, you can give up to $19,000 to anyone without federal gift tax consequences under the gift tax annual exclusion. If your loved […]
If you’ve filed your 2024 tax return, you may be eager to do some spring cleaning, starting with tax-related paper and digital clutter. The documentation needed to support a tax return may include receipts, bank and investment account statements, K-1s, W-2s, and 1099s. How long must you save these records? Three years is the general […]
Payroll fraud schemes can be costly. According to a 2024 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) study, the median loss generated by payroll fraud incidents is $50,000. It’s essential to know the payroll schemes making the rounds and how to prevent them – or at least catch them before they go on very long. Common […]
Whether you’re a casual or professional gambler, your winnings are taxable. However, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration reports that gambling income is vastly underreported. Failing to report winnings accurately can lead to back taxes, interest and penalties. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and potentially minimize your tax liability. Reporting […]
The term “sandwich generation” was coined to describe baby boomers caught between caring for their aging parents and their children. The term now applies to whichever generation is grappling with the problem, today most commonly Generation Xers and older Millennials. If you’re in the middle of the sandwich, it may be time for honest discussions […]