What Is Taxable and Nontaxable Income?
In general, income is taxable unless it is specifically exempted by law. Such taxable income must be reported and is subject to taxation. Income that is nontaxable, however, may still have to be reported on your tax return. Even if you have not cashed a valid check you received before the end of a certain […]
Deciding When To Take Social Security Benefits
How does the Social Security system work, and how do you decide what’s right for you? Well, receiving benefits is an option available to you as early as age 62, but choosing to receive benefits this early may decrease your benefits by up to 30%. Nonetheless, opting for early retirement could lead to increased benefits […]
Solar Panels: Tax Breaks and More
Solar panels have become more popular than ever among homeowners. With more affordable installation and material costs, many people are installing solar panels on their homes. It might be worth considering especially if you live in a sunny region and want to offset some of your energy costs. Here is what you need to know. […]
The Complex Rules Surrounding Mortgages and Taxes

The home mortgage interest deduction is as American as apple pie, but since 2017 when the tax law for this deduction was passed, there have been some changes. For starters, and most notably, the maximum mortgage principal that made homeowners eligible for the interest deduction has been lowered. It was originally $1 million and is […]
How to Deal with Employee Taxes
Employers generally must withhold income tax from employees’ wages. To figure out how much tax to withhold, you need to use the employee’s Form W-4, the appropriate method and the appropriate withholding table described in Publication 15-T, Federal Income Tax Withholding Methods. You’ll deposit your withholdings based on your business and the amount you withhold. File […]