Understanding the Credit for Other Dependents

Understanding the Credit for Other Dependents

Taxpayers with dependents who don’t qualify for the Child Tax Credit may be able to claim the Credit for Other Dependents. They can claim this credit in addition to the Child and Dependent Care Credit and the Earned Income Credit. Here’s more information to help taxpayers determine whether they’re eligible to claim the Credit for Other Dependents on…

Tax basics: Understanding the difference between standard and itemized deductions

Tax basics: Understanding the difference between standard and itemized deductions

One of the first decisions taxpayers must make when completing a tax return is whether to take the standard deduction or itemize their deductions. There are several factors that can influence a taxpayer’s choice, including changes to their tax situation, any changes to the standard deduction amount and recent tax law changes. Generally, most taxpayers…

Tax benefits to help offset the cost of making businesses accessible to people with disabilities

Tax benefits to help offset the cost of making businesses accessible to people with disabilities

When employers hire people with disabilities or make their business accessible to employees and customers with disabilities, they may be eligible for certain tax benefits. These tax benefits encourage employers to hire qualified people with disabilities and off-set some of the costs of providing accommodations. Disabled Access Credit The Disabled Access Credit is a non-refundable…

Employers should certify employees before claiming the Work Opportunity Tax Credit

Employers should certify employees before claiming the Work Opportunity Tax Credit

Employers who hire people from certain groups can reduce the tax they owe when they claim the Work Opportunity Tax Credit on their federal tax return. This credit encourages employers to hire workers certified as members of any of ten groups facing barriers to employment. When hiring, employers may want to take a moment to…

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E-file Form 8300: Reporting of large cash transactions

Who must file Federal law requires a person to report cash transactions of more than $10,000 by filing Form 8300, Report of Cash Payments Over $10,000 Received in a Trade or Business. Although many cash transactions are legitimate, the information on the form can help law enforcement combat money laundering, tax evasion, drug dealing, terrorist…

Married Couples in Business

Married Couples in Business

One of the advantages of operating your own business is hiring family members. However, the employment tax requirements for family employees may vary from those that apply to other employees. Below, we point out some issues to consider when operating a business as a married couple. How spouses earn Social Security benefits A spouse is…

Educator Expense Deduction helps teachers cut classroom costs

Educator Expense Deduction helps teachers cut classroom costs

Teachers often buy classroom supplies with their own money. The Educator Expense Deduction helps them get some of that money back. Eligible teachers and administrators can deduct part of the cost of technology, supplies and training from their taxes. They can claim this deduction only for expenses that weren’t reimbursed by their employer, a grant…