The end of the year is approaching, and now is the time for some last minute tax planning before it is too late. Almost every time a financial transaction is made it has an impact on your taxes. Here are some things to look out for and consider: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you […]
Retirement
Strange Tax Benefits
The tax laws are written with a purpose in mind, but at times, it may be used (loopholes) to receive unintended benefits. You may be able to rent out your home or vacation home tax-free if rented for less than two weeks during the year If you have a home office, you may be able […]
Should You Buy a Home or Rent?
Several years back when the real estate market was red hot, it was almost a no-brainer to buy a home. A year or two later your home appreciated by thousands of dollars and was worth much more than you paid for it. We all know that this is not true now, so does it make […]
Pay Less Tax on Your Investments
It’s great to accumulate wealth by investing and saving you money, but did you know that taxes can take a large bite from your investments? Every investor, including those with 401(k)’s, IRA’s, and traditional brokerage accounts need to be aware of the impact of taxes. Here are a few tips and items to watch out […]
Penny Wise, Pound Foolish
What do I mean by penny wise, pound foolish? Saving a penny, but it costs you a dollar. Here are a few examples: Extreme Couponing: I watched an episode of extreme couponing years ago and the first thought that came to my mind, aside from obsessive, is that the coupon clippers spend way too much […]
Your IRA is a Tax Time Bomb
Individual retirement accounts, also commonly referred to as IRA’s, are a great way to save for retirement and potentially reduce your current taxes. Although these benefits are great, there is a tremendous downside that can impact you if you make a wrong move. Early Withdrawal Penalty: If you need to withdraw money from your IRA […]
What is a Self-Directed IRA?
Individual retirement arrangement or IRA’s are very common and well-known. Normally when someone owns an IRA they invest in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, but did you know that there is alternative arrangement, called a self-directed IRA? A self-directed IRA allows an individual to invest in a wide array of assets, including real estate, private […]