The stakes on tax policy are high as the election nears. Here’s how to prepare
Investors have a close eye on the Nov. 5 presidential election, but Congressional contests deserve attention — as they could shape tax policy and the next steps investors take to prepare. “Whatever happens with the election next week, it’s still going to take time for some significant tax law to come through,” said Stephen Bigge, […]
How to leverage higher income limits for the 0% capital gains bracket
dowell | Moment | Getty Images The earnings limit for the 0% capital gains bracket will rise in 2025, which could offer tax planning opportunities, financial experts say. At sale, profitable assets owned for more than one year qualify for lower taxes — known as long-term capital gains. Those rates are 0%, 15% or 20%, […]
How to use required minimum distributions to improve your portfolio
Richard Drury | Digitalvision | Getty Images After funneling money into pretax retirement accounts, you will eventually face mandatory withdrawals in retirement known as required minimum distributions, or RMDs. Since RMDs can trigger higher taxes, the withdrawals can be a nuisance for some retirees who do not need the money. But the yearly activity could […]
How to calculate capital gains taxes when selling your home
Westend61 | Westend61 | Getty Images As home values climb, more Americans owe capital gains taxes when selling property. But knowing how to calculate your home’s profit could reduce your bill, experts say. Most Americans do not owe taxes for selling a primary residence because of a special tax break — known as the Section […]
How to avoid the ‘survivor’s penalty’ before a spouse passes
Jessie Casson | Digitalvision | Getty Images It’s hard to lose a spouse, and a costly surprise makes it even more difficult, especially for older women — higher taxes. But financial experts say there are several ways to prepare. In 2022, there was a 5.4-year life expectancy gap between U.S. sexes, according to data from […]
Here’s how to get a faster tax refund, expert says
D3sign | Moment | Getty Images Tax season has kicked off and the IRS has started to process 2023 returns. If you’re expecting a refund, there are a few ways to get the money faster, experts say. Often, “self-inflicted mistakes” cause refund delays, according to Mark Steber, chief tax information officer at Jackson Hewitt. The […]
How to protect yourself from tax identity theft this season
5M3photos | Moment | Getty Images As the start of tax season approaches, experts are warning filers about tax-related identity theft, an issue that often halts returns and delays refunds. Tax identity theft happens when criminals use your personal information to file a return in your name and claim your refund — and “it continues […]
How to prepare for the ‘survivor’s penalty’ before a spouse passes
Nosystem Images | E+ | Getty Images Many older women outlive their spouses and may not expect higher future taxes after suffering from the loss. But there are ways to prepare, according to financial experts. American women have a significantly higher life expectancy than men, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and […]