Imagine Goldilocks having to file taxes. One year she would have to pay a lot, the next she would get a huge return. Finding a withholding amount is a challenge for many adults. “just right”It seems almost impossible.
However, if your refund was greater than expected or you owe taxes, you might want to increase your withholding. It is important to pay as little tax as possible.
You still have time to speak to a licensed tax specialist to adjust your withholding and discuss other options to ease your tax burden in the coming year.
Here are some tips to save last-minute taxes from America’s tax expertsThe National Association of Enrolled Agents is a group of tax practitioners licensed to practice only taxation all year.
* If you’re in the top tax bracket of 35 percent, you may want to accelerate income into 2012, if possible. The highest possible tax rate in 2013 could be 39.6 percent depending on Congress.
* Along with the possibility of higher ordinary income tax rates, there’s the possibility of higher capital gains rates on investment income in 2013. For investments that have been held for over a year, the top capital gains rate is 15% for most taxpayers. Investors in the 10 percent or 15 percent tax brackets will pay zero capital gains tax. You may want to lock in your long-term investment profits before you see capital gains taxes rising next year.
* Giving to charity can help reduce your tax bill if you are able to itemize deductions. You can also make contributions by check, cash, or credit card. The cool fall air might give you the energy to clean out your home and look for items that can be donated. Make a list and estimate their market value. Keep the receipt and the list with your tax documents.
* Sometimes, a major life change is thrown your way, and you might not think of it as a tax deduction. You may be eligible for a deduction for agency fees, resume counseling costs, and travel expenses incurred in the search for a job.
Find out more and how to find an agent enrolled in the program. www.naea.org.
