Imagine Goldilocks having to file taxes. One year she would have to pay a lot, the next she would get a huge return. Many adults find it difficult to find a withholding amount that is right for them. “just right”This seems almost impossible.

However, if your refund was greater than you expected or if you owe taxes, it might be worth adjusting 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 tax rate could rise to 39.6 % depending on Congress in 2013.

* 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 might want to lock in long-term profits on investments before next year if you have a crystal ball that says capital gains taxes will go up.

* Giving to charity can help reduce your tax bill if you are able to itemize deductions. The crisp fall air can give you the motivation to clean your house and find items that are in good condition that can then be donated to a qualified charity organization. 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, career counseling expenses, and travel costs related to your job search, even if you are unsuccessful in finding a job.

Learn more about how to become an enrolled agent and where you can find out how to do it. www.naea.org.