Claiming dependents on your tax return can significantly reduce your tax liability through exemptions, deductions, and credits. However, claiming an ineligible dependent—whether accidentally or intentionally—can lead to serious consequences, including IRS penalties, delayed refunds, and even audits. Understanding the rules and repercussions is essential for responsible tax filing. Who Qualifies as a Dependent? Before diving […]
Individual Tax
Can I Still File Taxes Without My W-2 or 1099?
Filing taxes can be stressful, and it’s even more challenging if you’re missing key documents like your W-2 or 1099. These forms report your income and are essential for filing your taxes correctly. But what happens if you don’t have them by tax time? Can you still file your taxes without them? The good news […]
Help Your Working Teen Get a Jump-Start on Saving
You may have a teen in your family who holds down a part-time job or works full-time during the summer. You can help your child lay the groundwork for future retirement security early on by encouraging your child to open an individual retirement account (IRA). You may, or may not, get some resistance, especially if […]
Take the Pulse of Your Tax Health
Regular financial checkups give you an opportunity to identify where you can improve your overall tax situation. They also help identify areas of concern that may require more detailed attention. In a similar fashion, regularly reviewing your tax situation with a financial professional can identify opportunities to improve your tax picture and can often shed […]