Tag: retirement

Posts Tagged ‘retirement’

How Your Taxes Will Change in 2020

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on September 11, 2019
Last modified: January 27, 2020

2020 tax season

It’s almost time for another tax season!

Believe it or not, the 2020 tax season begins January 27, 2020. The worst feeling is scrambling last-minute to find your tax documents. Why not put your mind at ease by going over information you need to know to file your 2019 taxes?

Here are the tax changes you need to be prepared for next year.

2019 Tax Brackets

You might wonder what tax bracket you’re in. The IRS announced the slightly higher brackets below: (more…)

11 Sensible Ways to Spend Your 2012 Tax Refund

Posted by Michelle O'Brien on March 30, 2016
Last modified: December 21, 2016

Did you know you have until April 18th, 2016 to claim your 2012 tax refund?

If you didn’t know, then this information might feel a little like finding a $5 bill in an old winter coat. With that in mind, you’re probably thinking about how you can spend it, right? Before I get into the great things you could put that extra money towards, it’s important to remember that your tax refund is still money that you earned. You’re receiving a refund because more tax was withheld throughout the year than was needed to cover the taxes you owed to the IRS. So depending how your 2012 tax situation shakes out, you might be owed a refund, or you might owe back tax if not enough money was withheld. Given that, you should file any past due tax returns ASAP – especially with the chance to get an unclaimed 2012 refund slipping away soon.

Whether you’re saving or spending, make sure you do it right!

1. Catch up on bills.

Sometimes it’s the little things in life that make the biggest impact. Using your tax refund to stay up to date on monthly bills and avoid late fees and interest is such a great way to eliminate stress. Then you can save up the remainder and put it towards that oh-so-necessary vacation you’ve been meaning to take.

2. Start an emergency fund.

Suppose your car breaks down and insurance won’t cover it. Maybe your boss crunches the numbers and realizes that he can’t afford to fund your position anymore. In a world so surprising, you should always hope for the best but prepare for the worst. This is why setting aside a cushion of savings might be a good idea. Financial experts suggest maintaining a savings large enough to cover three to six months’ worth of household spending. You may be thinking that there’s no way that your tax refund will cover that. Maybe not, but you have to start somewhere. (more…)