How to File an Amended Tax Return

We all know filing taxes is not the easiest job in the world (that’s why you hire us to help!) Mistakes do happen from time to time, so what do you do when you realize there is an error after you’ve already handed in your returns? Well, there are two options: The first option is plain and simple: do nothing. If it’s related to a mathematical error, the IRS will usually automatically fix it. If you forgot a certain form or schedule, the IRS will usually send you a request for them. The second option is to file an amended tax return if you made an error claiming your filing status, income, deductions or credits on your original return. An Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, … [Read more...]

Affordable Care Act Premium Tax Credit

With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, also known as “ObamaCare,” health care coverage is now required. This can be a heavy burden when you’re on a tight budget. Luckily, the IRS has allowed for a premium tax credit for those who have moderate incomes and need help paying for their health care coverage. According to the IRS, you generally have to meet these three rules to be eligible for the premium tax credit: Get health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace Have a household income between one and four times the federal poverty line Not be eligible for other coverage, including Medicare, Medicaid, or sufficient employer-sponsored coverage Be … [Read more...]

Affordable Care Act Individual Shared Responsibility Payment

Health care coverage is now required under the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare.” If you do not have coverage, the IRS can charge you with an individual shared responsibility payment when you file your taxes in 2015. In their article on the subject, the IRS lists three reasons why you would have to make a payment: You have not signed up for a qualifying form of health insurance coverage. You had a gap in coverage in 2014. (If it was less than 3 consecutive months, you might qualify for an exemption.) You didn’t qualify for an exemption. The amount you owe will be based on the greater of: 1% of your household income that is above the tax return filing threshold … [Read more...]

Affordable Care Act Tax Exemptions

As of 2014, if you do not have health insurance coverage or have a gap in coverage, you will have to either pay an individual shared responsibility fee or file for an exemption when you file your taxes in 2015. Wondering how to make the right choices for your health care tax provisions? Here are some basics to help you determine if you qualify for an Affordable Care Act tax exemption. According to the IRS, people who qualify include those who: Do not have access to affordable coverage Have a gap of less than three consecutive months without coverage Qualify for one of several other exemptions, including: having a hardship that prevents you from obtaining coverage, … [Read more...]

Why You Might Receive a Notice from the IRS

April 15th has come and gone and the last thing you want is to hear from the IRS; however, sometimes the IRS needs to follow up on tax-related issues and they will send notices that you might need to respond to.  Don’t panic! Not all of these letters contain bad news--sometimes you could even be receiving more money for your tax refund! Here are some common reasons why people receive IRS notices: Balance Due You Qualify for Additional Tax Credits A Change to Your Estimated Tax Credit Amount A Change to a Previous Year’s Refunds Overpayments Issues with Direct Deposit Changes to Filing Requirements Confirmation of Tax Return Receipt Address Update Needed To learn … [Read more...]

How to Prevent a Tax Headache

Is your tax headache coming? From collecting documents to reviewing write-offs, this can be a stressful time of year. The hardest part, especially for business owners, is the fear that you will owe more than you can handle. The best thing you can do during tax season to stop worrying is get organized. Knowledge is power. Figure out what papers you need, what deductions you’ll be claiming, and how you are going to file (online software, tax professional, etc.). Once your information is complete, you’ll know how much you owe, or how much you’ll be receiving. If you owe money, there are solutions that can help relieve some of the burden, as this Yahoo! Finance article explains. Not paying … [Read more...]