Latest Headlines
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Take the Standard Deduction or Itemize?
Many who are about to file returns for 2009 want advice on whether to claim the standard deduction or to itemize outlays like mortgage interest and charitable contributions. Itemizing pays off only when total itemized deductions surpass the standard deduction. -
Help from the IRS
Although the IRS guide Your Federal Income Tax can be invaluable, keep in mind that the agency can legally disclaim all responsibility for inaccurate information that its employees give, whether as responses to telephone or walk-in inquiries or that it prints in its publications. -
Check Fraud Laws That Impact Our Risk and Liability
Changes to legislation and related court cases have significantly impacted our rights, responsibilities, and potential liabilities regarding incidents of check fraud. Most or us are unaware of these changes and their effect on us as consumers. -
Going Green Trims Taxes
Installing energy-efficient home improvements like windows and doors in your principal residence will qualify you for a tax credit. The credit equals 30% of the cost, capped at a maximum of $1,500. There’s another credit of 30% of the cost of installing renewable-energy improvements like solar water heaters and solar panels. -
Stimulus Program Targets Appliances
Products qualifying for rebates include boilers, central air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, furnaces, heat pumps, refrigerators, room air conditioners, and water heaters. -
The Sticky Business of Life Settlements
A life settlement is the sale of an existing life insurance policy to a third party. The buyer (or investor) continues the premium payments and collects upon the seller’s death. How much depends on the life expectancy of the insured: the sooner the seller dies, the more the investor makes. The Washington Post calls these “ghoulish products.” -
FINRA Study Measures Financial Capabilities
The National Financial Capability Study is meant to measure the financial aptitude of adults and show how they save, borrow, and plan for their financial future. -
Fee-Only Model Minimizes Conflicts of Interest
How compensation for financial planning services is handled is no small thing. Fee-only advisors get paid only for what they know. -
Misunderstanding Sinks Senior’s Ship of Dreams
One of the first rules of business is to never argue with potential clients. It’s a proven way to lose the opportunity to work with them. And their families. And their friends. But I couldn’t help myself. -
Calling for Tax Advice the Inexpensive Way
How do Americans keep abreast of the hundreds of tax code modifications made each year? Fortunately, pricey tax professionals are not the only source of help for those worried about their financial futures and retirement prospects.
