Posts by Dana McGuffin

  Lost in the media storm during the coronavirus pandemic is a law change enacted in late 2019 that eliminates an IRA withdrawal technique known as the stretch IRA. Here is what you need to know. Time to review beneficiaries While the chances of you having a severe reaction to the coronavirus are low, it…

    Who would ever have foreseen a time when petroleum companies would pay you to take their oil? This phenomena underscores the concept that within every problem there is opportunity. Here are some tax strategies to think about during the coronavirus pandemic. Look into Roth rollovers If you have high balances in tax-deferred retirement…

  In addition to filing delays and stimulus payments, the IRS is implementing many changes in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Here are some of the major topics that could affect you and your family. Early distribution penalty waived The 10% early distribution penalty on up to $100,000 of retirement withdrawals for coronavirus-related reasons is…

  The COVID-19 disease has drastically changed how we do business. With an unprecedented amount of American families and businesses being affected information is pouring in rapidly. Here are just a few highlights of some of the recent legislation that may help you and your business.   IRS People First Initiative April 15th tax deadline automatically…

  Tax Form 1095 has been nothing but a headache since its introduction. This federally mandated form adds complexity, creates taxpayer confusion, and cost billions of dollars to produce. The purpose of the form is simple: to relay proof of your health insurance coverage, but too many taxpayers are now delaying filing tax returns while…

  Wondering why your tax return is not finished? Often the delay can come from one or two items that were overlooked and are needed to complete your tax return. Here are some of the most common: Missing Statements. This includes all W-2s and 1099s including any related to gambling winnings, income, interest, and mutual funds.…

  It is late January and you realize the 1099-MISC you receive is in error. In fact, it overstates your income by $2,000. What should you do? Gather your facts. Put yourself in the shoes of the vendor, bank or investment company representative. Gather evidence they will need to support your claim to correct the tax…

  Your credit score is more important than ever. Once viewed as a necessity when applying for a mortgage, it now factors into renting an apartment, paying for utilities, buying a cell phone, and determining the amount you pay for home and auto insurance! Here are tips to help you improve and maintain a good…

While the maximum capital gain tax rate can be as high as 23.8 percent, most taxpayers pay 15 percent. But there is the possibility to have your capital gains go tax-free; zero percent! In fact, this tax break has been around for more than a decade and comes into play more often than you may…