There’s still time for you to talk with a tax specialist about your tax withholding and other options to increase your tax-time savings.

The National Association of Enrolled AgentsThese tips are provided by a group of tax professionals who are licensed and focus on taxation all year.

* Increase or max out retirement contributions. To reduce your taxable income, and to lower your tax bill, contribute more to your retirement plan (401(k).

* The tax break for making a charitable gift from an Individual Retirement Account expired on Dec. 31, 2013. Some financial advisors advise their clients to donate from their IRAs in anticipation of Congress extending the deduction for 2014.

* If you can itemize deductions, giving to charity may also reduce your tax bill. Donations can also be made by check, cash, or credit card. Items around the house that are in good shape can be donated to qualified charities. Keep a record of all items and their fair market values. The list can be clipped to the receipt provided by the organization and kept with your tax documents. Also, photos of donated items are recommended.

* Gift-giving is another great tool. The 2014 annual gift tax exclusion is $14,000 (or $28,000 for married couples who make split-gifts).

* 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 costs, and travel related the job search, even if your job search is unsuccessful.

* On Jan. 1, 2013, the 3.8 percent net investment income (NII) surtax took effect. Congress passed the surtax in order to finance health care reform. It is applied to net investment income of individuals with higher incomes, estates, trusts and those who exceed certain thresholds. The surtax is generally applicable to passive income but may also be applied to capital gains resulting from the disposition of property. It is important to reduce, if at all possible, the surtax. January 1, 2013, was also the effective date for the 0.9 percent Additional Medicare tax that reaches individuals with higher incomes.

* Watch the news. A delay in tax-filing season may be caused by Congress’ late tax legislation. This is similar to what happened in 2013. It won’t take too long to make adjustments to your plans.

Visit this site for more information and to locate an en-rolled agent. www.naea.org.