Taxes - 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy

Hidden Taxes: What Is Your True Cost?

Tue, 15 May 2012 15:49:07 EDT

We are pretty well aware of the taxes we must pay as U.S. citizens; income taxes, payroll taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, and gift and estate taxes, to name a few. We can easily see these taxes on our pay stubs, tax bills, and sales receipts. But there are other taxes imposed on us that you may not be aware of. They are "hidden taxes."

Total Tax Insights Calculator

Tue, 15 May 2012 11:19:43 EDT

Where you live, what kind of car you drive, how you shop – all can have a significant impact on the taxes you pay. All told, there are more than 20 types of taxes – some that may surprise you – and knowing which you pay and how much you pay can affect not only your current financial picture but your future plans as well.

10 Tips for Last Minute Tax Filers (2012)

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:34:15 EDT

10 questions and answers from the American Institute of CPAs to help you with any last-minute uncertainties you may have as the deadline for filing your 2011 individual income tax return approaches.

2011 Tax Season Considerations

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:14:50 EST

You don't want to pay more in taxes than you have to. That means taking advantage of every deduction and credit that you're entitled to, and recognizing potential opportunities to save. It also means staying on top of deadlines, and avoiding mistakes that could prove costly down the road. Here are some things to keep in mind this filing season.

Gift Tax Strategies

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:41:46 EST

Now may be a great time to make gifts that take advantage of the current large gift tax applicable exclusion amount, low gift tax rates, depressed property values, and low interest rates. The first gifts you consider should generally be annual exclusion and qualified transfer gifts.

Five Year-End Tax Planning Considerations

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:20:09 EST

Legislation passed in December of 2010 extended lower tax rates, deductions, and other expiring provisions for an additional one to two years. As a result, you can consider 2011 year-end tax planning moves with a relative degree of certainty. Here are five things to keep in mind.

I'm retiring to a state with no income tax. Can my former state tax my retirement benefits?

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:22:38 EDT

I'm retiring to a state with no income tax. Can my former state tax my retirement benefits?

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I'm buying a laptop online--will I have to pay sales tax?

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 15:50:23 EDT

I'm buying a laptop online--will I have to pay sales tax?

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What penalties and interest will I be charged for paying and filing my federal income taxes late?

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 02:37:20 EDT

What penalties and interest will I be charged for paying and filing my federal income taxes late?

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I just made a gift. Do I have to file a gift tax return?

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 01:41:55 EDT

I just made a gift. Do I have to file a gift tax return?

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