We receive a lot of questions pertaining to tax and financial matters. Here is a sample of commonly asked questions:
Q: Is it better if I file separately from my spouse?
A: Usually the answer is no, and the only way to know for certain is to perform an analysis when preparing the tax return to split income and deductions between spouses to see if there is a benefit. However, you may want to file separately from your spouse if there are tax or legal issues.
Q: Is social security taxable?
A: That depends. If you are only receiving social security and do not have other income, then the answer will probably be no. A quick way of checking is to add one half of your social security plus your other income to see if it is greater than your base amount, which varies based upon your filing status (currently it is $32,000 for married filers).
Q: Does my son or daughter need to file a tax return?
A: Generally, if your dependent child has more than $6,300 of earned income or $1,050 of unearned income, such as from dividends, then they need to file a return.
Q: If I file an extension, will it extend the amount of time that I have to pay my taxes.
A: No, the extension only grants you additional time to file your return and all payments must be made by the original due date, otherwise additional interest and penalties may be incurred.
Q: Can the IRS levy my IRA?
A: Yes, the IRS has the power to levy almost all of your income and assets, with few exceptions, such as workers’ compensation.
Q: Are legal fees for a divorce deductible?
A: Many of the legal fees for a divorce are not tax-deductible, except for the portion relating to taxable income.