Are you one of the now 33% of Americans who work as either an independent contractor or freelancer? If you answered yes, you are now a participant in the gig economy, a modern term for an economy characterized by workers who earn money through short-term contracts or freelance work. Succeeding as an independent contractor can be challenging because it requires understanding a different set key success factors than being a full-time employee. Here are some tips

The pros and cons of renting versus buying For many folks, the lyrics of a 1960s rock song summarize the American dream: “Our house is a very, very, very fine house.” According to U.S. Census figures, about two-thirds of American families are homeowners. But buying a house or condo may not be the best choice for every family in every situation. Renting offers the following advantages: Greater flexibility. When renting a house, apartment, or condo, you

Here’s how to minimize your risk What better place for online thieves to target than a database that contains 300 million+ Social Security numbers and a treasure trove of financial information? The IRS has 52 Internet applications to help U.S. citizens comply with their tax obligations. But these online portals, which collect, process and store large amounts of personal information and tax data, are also a potential gateway for online criminals and identity thieves. While the

This month: March 16 – Due date for partnership and S corporation tax returns (Forms 1065, 1120S)  

It’s easy to get inundated with documents during tax season. You can receive documents from many different organizations, including employers, financial institutions and others. Many documents are now also being sent via e-mail, which increases the likelihood it could get lost in your inbox. As tax season is quickly approaching, here are some of the documents to be on the lookout for: W-2s While W-2s are the most widespread and well-known tax form, it can be

You’ve done the hard work. You have a new business idea or you’ve found an existing business to purchase. Want to help ensure your business success? Pay attention to correctly setting up your business’ accounting system. Here’s how: Consider business entity. Choosing the right legal and tax entity for your business is important. Consult experts to discuss your options. On the tax side, sole proprietors use a Form 1040 Schedule C to report their activity, while

With the major Form W-4 overhaul for 2020, you may field questions from your employees. While it’s not your responsibility to provide tax advice to your employees, it’s good to be prepared to help answer common questions about the new IRS form. Here is a summary of the W-4 changes and answers to some common questions you might encounter: The change Form W-4 was changed by the IRS in an attempt to make payroll withholdings more

The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act, also known as the SECURE Act, was passed by Congress in late December 2019. Here are some of the features in the new legislation that will help you save more for retirement: Money can continue to grow tax deferred If you turn 70½ in 2020 or later, you can keep money in a tax-deferred IRA or 401(k) for another 18 months to help the account continue growing

The IRS primer every voter should know Every year the IRS publishes instructions to prepare your Form 1040, individual tax return. The publication for 2019 is a whopping 108 pages! On page 103 of the IRS booklet is a summary of collections (income) and spending (outlays) by the federal government. Given the election year, here is a summary of this recap and some general observations.* 2018 Federal Income and Outlays 41% Personal income taxes 28% Social

This month: February 14 – Valentine’s Day February 17 – Presidents’ Day Reminders – Collect all tax forms (W-2s, 1099s, others) – Set up tax appointment – Rebalance investment portfolios   The 2019 tax filing season is in full swing. If you have not already done so, now is the time to collect your tax forms, organize your records and set a schedule to get your tax return completed. Deep in the Form 1040 instructions is