Tax guidance and resources

Latest Articles

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  Proof for claiming dependents

  The IRS rules for claiming a dependent seem simple, but proving it can be complex.

  2 min read Oct 07, 2008
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  Rolling into a Roth

  If a traditional IRA contains some after-tax contributions, it can still be converted to a Roth.

  1 min read Oct 06, 2008
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  Deducting exercise equipment

  If a doctor prescribes exercise equipment for physical therapy, the IRS allows a deduction.

  1 min read Sep 24, 2008
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  When to claim credit for the kids

  The child care credit is not meant to subsidize education, but to allow parents to work.

  2 min read Sep 23, 2008
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  Tax scam’s deal really is too good to be true

  Shady tax firms promise to cut tax bills, but most are peddling ‘offers in compromise’ the IRS will never approve.

  5 min read Sep 19, 2008
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  Inherited IRA withdrawals

  The beneficiary of an inherited IRA can withdraw without the 10-percent penalty.

  2 min read Sep 18, 2008
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  Rules for claiming dependents

  A student with high medical bills can be claimed as a dependent if the criteria are met.

  2 min read Sep 17, 2008
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  Taxes on per diem

  When figuring whether or not per diem is taxed, take into account your ‘tax home,’ says CPA George Saenz.

  2 min read Sep 16, 2008
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  Moving an IRA to another bank

  How often you can transfer retirement accounts depends on the type of transfer, says CPA George Saenz.

  2 min read Sep 15, 2008
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  Real estate taxes for ex-pats

  An ex-pat married to a non-resident alien needs to weigh the merits of a second U.S. home, says CPA George Saenz.

  2 min read Sep 11, 2008
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  Are insurance settlements taxable?

  Typically, insurance settlements for property damage or physical injury are not taxable, says CPA George Saenz.

  2 min read Sep 10, 2008
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  Dodging double taxation

  Germany has a tax treaty with the U.S., which will help employees avoid double taxation.

  2 min read Sep 04, 2008
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  Selling demutualized shares

  Good news for shareholders in a converted insurance company.

  2 min read Sep 03, 2008
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  Actual tax rates may vary

  Long-term capital gains rates are the same under AMT, but phaseouts could change your rate.

  2 min read Sep 03, 2008
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  Sale of a partnership investment

  Typically, the sale of a partnership investment results in capital gain or loss.

  2 min read Aug 27, 2008
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  Bank deposit taxes

  Foreigners are exempt from income tax on bank deposit interest.

  1 min read Aug 26, 2008
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  Retirement account losses

  A legal settlement for retirement account losses won’t affect contribution limits.

  1 min read Aug 25, 2008
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  Home sales tax for foreigners

  ‘Mixed marriages’ and real estate sales may result in a 10-percent tax.

  2 min read Aug 19, 2008
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  Inheritance raises tax questions

  Two reader questions inquire about the role of taxes after you receive an inheritance.

  2 min read Aug 19, 2008
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  Maximizing your 401(k)

  Save income tax, and set your 401(k) contributions to maximize your employer’s match.

  2 min read Aug 12, 2008