The Internal Revenue Service has started sending letters to more than 36 million American families who, based on tax returns filed with the agency, may be eligible to receive monthly Child Tax Credit payments starting July 15, 2021. Here’s what families need to know: Continue reading
Generally, unemployment compensation received under the unemployment compensation laws of the United States or a state is considered taxable income and must be reported on your federal tax return. However, a new tax break–in effect only for the 2020 tax year–lets you exclude the first $10,200 from taxable income. Here’s what you should know: Continue reading
On March 12, following the American Rescue Plan Act’s approval and signing, the IRS began sending out the third round of Economic Impact Payments. Most payments were sent out via direct deposit, but approximately 150,000 checks were mailed by the Treasury Department as well. Taxpayers who received EIP1 or EIP2 but didn’t receive a third payment (EIP3) via direct deposit will generally receive a check or, in some instances, a prepaid debit card (EIP Card). Continue reading
Signed into law on March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) contains several tax provisions affecting individuals and families. Let’s take a look: Continue reading
Apps like Robinhood make it easy for everyone to play the stock market. If you’re a retail investor who made money last year buying and selling stocks, you may owe capital gains tax when you file your tax return this year. If you lost money, you may be able to deduct that loss and reduce your income. Continue reading
If you have children, one or more of these tax credits and deductions could help your family reduce the amount of tax owed when you file your 2020 tax return. Let’s take a look: Continue reading
In general, income from renting a vacation home for 15 days or longer must be reported on your tax return on Schedule E, Supplemental Income and Loss. You should also keep in mind that the definition of a “vacation home” is not limited to a house. Apartments, condominiums, mobile homes, and boats are also considered vacation homes in the eyes of the IRS. Tax rules on rental income from second homes can be confusing, especially if you rent the home out for several months of the year and use the home yourself. Continue reading
The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, H.R. 133 included funding for the government, extensions for expiring tax extenders, tax relief under the COVID-related Tax Relief Act of 2020, and many more items. Passed by both the House and Senate, it was signed into law by President Trump on December 27, 2020. Continue reading
With the end of the year fast approaching, now is the time to take a closer look at tax planning strategies you can use to minimize your tax burden for 2020. Continue reading
Businesses that have been impacted financially by COVID-19 may be able to take advantage of a new, refundable tax credit called the Employee Retention Credit. The credit is designed to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll and is worth 50 percent of qualifying wages up to $10,000 that are paid by an eligible employer. Continue reading
