Charitable contributions are generally pretty straightforward, but you can get tripped up on occasion.
Remember that only qualified charities count for deductions.  Donating $20 to a family in need or a person fighting cancer is a very good thing to do, but in the eyes of the IRS they’re not deductible.  Typically these events have a [...]

Amendments are not for the faint of heart.  They’re a bit confusing, particularly if you’re adding or subtracting dependents.  This is one form where you really should seek the help of a professional.  I believe you should always seek the help of a professional, but this one in particular is confusing.  There are lots of [...]

My wife and I had a semi-heated discussion about the Cash for Clunkers program.  Her argument is that it’s good for the economy and good for the environment.  I countered that it’s bad for the economy long-term and that the accountability and oversight of the program is lax.  Congress is getting set to approve another [...]

The ex-banker in me cringes at this one but as a tax preparer, it’s a great way to save a lot of $$.  When a bank writes off a debt they give you one last present in the form of a 1099-C.  The amount of the 1099-C is then added to your income.  The thinking [...]