Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, gives his insights on the best way to pay off tax debt.
Withhold the Correct Amount
Ensure your employer withholds the correct amount of federal income tax from your paycheck based on your Form W-4. If you’re self-employed, be sure to use Form 1040-ES to make estimated tax payments quarterly to cover your income tax and self-employment tax obligations. Mark the quarterly tax payments on your calendar to avoid penalties and interest: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
Pay Your Tax Bill in Full When Due
Avoid penalties and interest by paying your entire tax bill by the due date, typically April 15 for individual income tax returns. Use direct payment from your bank account via IRS Direct Pay, debit or credit card payments, or electronic funds withdrawal when e-filing.
Request an Installment Agreement
If you can’t pay your tax bill in full, request an installment agreement from the IRS by applying online using the IRS Online Payment Agreement tool or by submitting Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request. Depending on your financial situation, you can negotiate monthly payments over a period of time.
Apply for Hardship Programs
If you’re experiencing financial hardship, consider options like an Offer in Compromise (OIC), which allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount owed. Be sure to provide detailed financial information to demonstrate inability to pay or prove that paying would create significant economic hardship.
Home equity loans have long been a popular option for homeowners looking to access the value in their homes for various financial needs. These might come in the form of home renovations, debt consolidation, or unexpected expenses. However, the tax implications of home equity loans are often overlooked, yet they can have a significant impact on a homeowner’s financial situation. Understanding how home equity loans affect taxes is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
What is a Home Equity Loan?
Also known as a second mortgage, a home equity loan is a type of consumer debt that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their residence. Equity is the difference between the current market value of the home and the outstanding balance on the mortgage. Home equity loans typically come in two forms:
Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loans: These loans provide a lump sum of money with a fixed interest rate and fixed monthly payments over a specified term.
Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs): These are more flexible and function like a credit card. Borrowers can draw on the line of credit as needed, up to a pre-approved limit, and are charged interest on the amount borrowed.
How Much Home Equity Can I Borrow?
The amount of home equity you can borrow depends on several factors, including your home’s current market value, the outstanding balance on your mortgage, and the lender’s policies. Here are the key considerations lenders look at.
Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)
Lenders typically use the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio to determine how much you can borrow. The LTV ratio compares the amount of your mortgage to the appraised value of your home.
Standard LTV Ratios: Most lenders will allow you to borrow up to 80% to 85% of your home’s value, including your existing mortgage and the home equity loan. For example, if your home is worth $300,000 and your remaining mortgage balance is $150,000, you might be able to borrow up to an additional $90,000 (85% of $300,000 – $150,000).
Higher LTV Ratios: Some lenders offer higher LTV ratios, up to 90% or more, but these often come with higher interest rates and stricter qualification requirements.
Credit Score and Income
Your credit score and income play a significant role in determining the amount you can borrow and the interest rate you will receive. A higher credit score and a stable income will generally allow you to borrow more at a lower interest rate.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
Lenders also consider your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward paying debts. A lower DTI ratio indicates a better ability to manage monthly payments, making you a more attractive borrower.
Lender Policies
Different lenders have different policies regarding home equity loans and HELOCs. Shopping around and comparing offers from multiple lenders can help you find the best terms and conditions for your financial situation.
Use of Funds
While the amount you can borrow is generally determined by the factors above, how you intend to use the funds can also impact your borrowing limits. Using the loan for home improvements might allow you to access more funds than using it for other purposes, as lenders may see this as increasing the value of their collateral.
How Do Home Equity Loans Affect My Taxes?
The tax implications of home equity loans can vary based on how the borrowed funds are used and the changes in tax laws.
Pre-2018 Loans: If you took out a home equity loan before 2018, the interest was generally deductible regardless of how you used the loan proceeds, up to a $100,000 limit, or $50,000 if married filing separately.
Post-2017 Loans: For loans taken out after December 15, 2017, the interest on home equity loans is only deductible if the funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve the taxpayer’s home that secures the loan. This means that if you use a home equity loan for personal expenses, such as paying off credit card debt or funding a vacation, the interest is not deductible.
Loan Amount Limits: The total amount of mortgage debt that can qualify for interest deduction is capped at $750,000, or $375,000 if married filing separately. This includes both the mortgage and home equity loan. Loans exceeding this amount will not have interest fully deductible.
Property Tax Deductions
Homeowners can also deduct property taxes paid on their primary residence and any other real estate they own. However, the TCJA capped the deduction for state and local taxes, including property taxes, at $10,000, or $5,000 if married filing separately. This limit affects homeowners in high-tax areas who may have previously deducted more.
Capital Gains Implications
Using home equity loans to improve your property can also impact capital gains tax when selling your home. If you use the loan to make substantial improvements, these costs can be added to your home’s basis, potentially reducing your capital gains tax liability when you sell the property.
Impact on Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
Under the AMT system, certain deductions allowed under the regular tax system are disallowed. However, home equity loan interest is generally deductible for AMT purposes, provided the loan meets the same criteria for regular tax purposes. Examples are if the funds are used to buy, build, or improve your home.
Debt Discharge and Tax Implications
If a lender forgives or cancels a home equity loan, the IRS considers this forgiven debt as taxable income, known as cancellation of debt (COD) income. However, under certain conditions, such as insolvency or bankruptcy, homeowners might be able to exclude this income from their taxable income.
Strategies for Maximizing Tax Benefits
Given these tax implications, homeowners should consider different strategies to maximize their tax benefits.
Use Funds for Home Improvement: To ensure interest is deductible, use home equity loan proceeds for substantial home improvements, which also can increase your home’s value.
Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of how home equity funds are used to substantiate deductions during tax filing.
Consult a Tax Professional: Given the complexities of tax laws, consulting with a tax advisor can help ensure compliance and optimize your tax situation.
Monitor Legislative Changes: Tax laws frequently change, and staying informed about potential legislative updates can help you adapt your financial strategies accordingly.
Tax Relief for Homeowners
Home equity loans can be a powerful financial tool, offering homeowners access to funds at relatively low-interest rates. However, understanding the tax implications is essential to avoid unexpected tax bills and to maximize potential tax benefits. By using home equity loans strategically and staying informed about tax laws, homeowners can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over $3 billion in resolved tax liabilities.
Selling on Etsy can be a rewarding venture, whether you’re crafting handmade jewelry, vintage finds, or unique digital downloads. However, as an Etsy seller, it’s essential to understand the tax implications of your business to ensure compliance and maximize your earnings. Here are some crucial tax tips to help you navigate-taxes as an Etsy seller.
Understand Your Tax Obligations
Knowing and understanding your tax obligations as an Etsy seller is crucial. Depending on what you sell, there are several types of taxes you may need to pay.
Income Tax
As an Etsy seller, you must report your earnings on your federal and state income tax returns. The IRS considers any income from Etsy sales as taxable income. This means you must report your gross sales and any additional income earned through the platform. When you sign up for Etsy, the platform will ask for your taxpayer identification number. If you’re a sole proprietor, you’ll likely use your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). However, if you’re an established and licensed business, you’d offer your Employer Identification Number (EIN). At the end of the year, Etsy will send you Form 1099-K if your sales exceed a certain threshold. In 2024, the threshold is at least $5,000. However, this amount will decrease to $600 beginning in 2025. There are also a few states that have already implemented lower thresholds. Keep in mind that you must report your income even if you do not receive this form.
Form 1099-K reports income received through Etsy. However, you’ll be able to deduct business expenses, including supplies, shipping costs, and others, when you file your taxes. If you sell your handmade goods on other platforms, you may also receive Form 1099-K from them as well. An example would be if you sell on Etsy but also sell on your own website through Shopify. Another example is if you sell in-person at craft fairs and collect payments through Venmo or PayPal. When it comes time to do taxes, you’ll add up the gross income reported on all of your 1099-K forms you receive, plus any income not reported on these forms.
Self-Employment Tax
In addition to income tax, you’ll likely be responsible for self-employment tax, which covers Social Security and Medicare taxes for self-employed individuals. In 2024, the self-employment tax rate is 15.3%. This tax applies to your net earnings, which are calculated by subtracting your business expenses from your gross income. You can pay self-employment taxes more easily by setting aside money regularly. It’s important to note that many Etsy sellers also have other part-time, or even full-time jobs. That said, it can be a good idea to consider increasing your tax withholding from your W-2 job to avoid a bigger tax bill in April. You can do this by updating your W-4 form with your employer.
Sales Tax
Sales tax regulations vary by state and can be complex. Etsy collects and remits sales tax on your behalf in most U.S. states due to marketplace facilitator laws. However, you should verify whether you need to collect sales tax for states not covered by these laws or for sales made outside of Etsy. Keeping up with changing sales tax laws is crucial for compliance.
Claim All Eligible Deductions
Deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income and lower your tax liability. As an Etsy seller, you may be eligible for various deductions.
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)
You can deduct the cost of materials and supplies used to create your products. This includes raw materials, packaging, and shipping supplies. This is done using Schedule C if you are a sole proprietor or a single-member LLC. Partnerships, multi-member LLCs, S corps, and C corps calculate COGS using Form 125-A.
Home Office Deduction
If you use a part of your home exclusively for your Etsy business, you may qualify for a home office deduction. This deduction allows you to deduct a portion of your rent or mortgage interest, utilities, and other home-related expenses. You can claim a deduction of $5 per square foot of your home office, up to $1,500 per year. On the other hand, if you use the more complex “actual expenses method,” you can deduct the portion of your actual home expenses based on the percentage of your home used for business. This method can be more beneficial if your home office expenses are significant.
Business Expenses
Common business expenses you can deduct include advertising, Etsy fees, shipping costs, and professional services like accounting or legal advice. You may even be able to deduct vehicle expenses if you use your car to travel to promote your business or purchase supplies. Be sure to keep detailed records to support these deductions.
Retirement Contributions
Contributing to a retirement plan is a great way to reduce your taxable income while saving for the future. As a self-employed individual, you have several retirement plan options that offer tax benefits. For example, Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Accounts (SEP IRAs), allow you to contribute up to 25% of your net earnings from self-employment, with a maximum contribution limit of $69,000 in 2024. SEP IRA contributions are tax-deductible, and the funds grow tax-deferred until withdrawal. Solo 401(k)s allow you to contribute as both an employer and an employee. You can contribute up to $23,000 as an employee in 2024, with an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution if you’re 50 or older. The total contribution limit (employee and employer) is $69,000, or $76,500 if you’re eligible for catch-up contributions. Contributions are tax-deductible, and earnings grow tax-deferred.
Consider Quarterly Estimated Taxes
If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes for the year, you may need to pay quarterly estimated taxes. This involves making four estimated tax payments throughout the year to cover your income and self-employment taxes. Failing to pay estimated taxes can result in penalties, so mark the due dates on your calendar. The 2024 deadlines are:
April 15
June 17
September 16
January 15, 2025
You should consult a tax professional to determine if this applies to you.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintaining accurate records is vital for tax purposes. Track all your income, expenses, and inventory to ensure you can report your earnings accurately and claim all eligible deductions. Use accounting software or spreadsheets to organize your records, and save receipts, invoices, and any other documentation that supports your claims. Many programs can automate expense tracking, invoicing, and report generation. This will not only make it easier to ensure accuracy in your tax filings, but it will also help your business grow.
Consult a Tax Professional
Tax laws can be complex, and every Etsy business is unique. Consulting a tax professional or accountant can help you find deductions and ensure compliance with federal and state tax regulations. They can also provide personalized advice tailored to your business needs. Remember that tax laws are subject to change, and staying informed about updates affecting your Etsy business is crucial. Follow IRS updates, subscribe to tax-related newsletters, and consult with your tax professional regularly to stay compliant and optimize your tax strategy.
Tax Help for Etsy Sellers
Figuring out taxes as an Etsy seller may seem intimidating. Many never take the leap to starting their own business because taxes can be so daunting. However, understanding your obligations can not only help you manage your tax responsibilities, but it can give you the courage to find freedom in self-employment. By keeping detailed records, claiming all eligible deductions, and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can ensure your Etsy business remains financially healthy and compliant with tax laws. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over $3 billion in resolved tax liabilities.
Today, Optima Tax Relief Lead Tax Attorney, Phil, discusses each of the three IRS 6-year rules.
Underreporting Income by Over 25%
If you underreport your income by over 25%, the IRS has six years from the date the return was filed to assess additional taxes, instead of the usual three years. The 25% threshold is calculated based on the amount of gross income that should have been reported. Gross income includes all income before deductions and exemptions. This can include wages, business income, rental income, interest, dividends, and other forms of income.
Non-Filing
The IRS generally requires taxpayers to file tax returns for the past six years if they have not filed them previously. This means if you have not filed a tax return in the last 10 years, the IRS will only require you to file the most recent six past-due returns.
Installment Agreements
Generally, if a taxpayer can pay off their tax debt within six years, they may qualify for streamlined installment agreements where detailed expense documentation, like receipts, may not be required for reasonable expenses. These expenses typically include food, clothing, housing, utilities, transportation, and healthcare.
Figuring out taxes in retirement can be challenging, but understanding available tax deductions can significantly impact your financial health. Senior citizens have access to a variety of tax benefits and deductions that can help reduce taxable income and enhance savings. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key tax deductions and credits available to senior citizens.
Standard Deduction for Seniors
One of the most straightforward tax benefits for seniors is the increased standard deduction. As of 2024, taxpayers aged 65 and older are eligible for a higher standard deduction, which can significantly reduce taxable income. Here’s how it works:
Single and Head of Household Filers: Seniors can claim an additional standard deduction of $1,950.
Married Filers: If one spouse is 65 or older, the additional deduction is $1,550. If both spouses are 65 or older, the additional deduction is $3,100.
Blind Filers: Blind seniors who file as Single or Head of Household, and who are aged 65 and older, can claim an additional $3,900 for the standard deduction. Blind married filers can claim an additional deduction of $3,100 per qualifying individual.
These higher deductions can be particularly beneficial for seniors who do not have enough itemized deductions to exceed the standard deduction threshold.
Medical and Dental Expenses
Medical and dental expenses can be a significant part of a senior’s budget. The IRS allows taxpayers to deduct unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). Eligible expenses include:
Doctor and dentist visits
Prescription medications
Long-term care insurance premiums
Nursing home costs (if primarily for medical care)
Medicare premiums (Parts B and D, and Medicare Advantage)
Keeping thorough records of medical expenses is crucial for maximizing this deduction.
Social Security Taxation
While Social Security benefits are often a primary source of income for seniors, they can also be partially taxable depending on your total income. To minimize taxes on Social Security, consider tax-efficient withdrawals from retirement accounts. Manage other income sources to stay below taxation thresholds. For single filers, Social Security benefits become taxable if your combined income exceeds $25,000. For married couples filing jointly, the threshold is $32,000.
Retirement Account Contributions
Although most seniors are no longer contributing to retirement accounts, there are still opportunities for deductions if you’re still working or have a spouse who is. Contributions to a traditional IRA may be tax-deductible depending on income and other retirement coverage. Additionally, seniors aged 70½ and older can make Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from their IRAs, which count toward the required minimum distribution (RMD) but are not included in taxable income.
Credit for the Elderly or Disabled
This credit is designed to assist low-income seniors and disabled individuals. To qualify, you must be 65 or older or retired on permanent and total disability, and your income must be below certain limits. The credit amount varies but can range from $3,750 to $7,500. It’s essential to consult IRS Schedule R to determine eligibility and calculate the exact credit amount.
Capital Gains Exclusion on Home Sales
For seniors considering downsizing or relocating, the capital gains exclusion on home sales can be a significant benefit. If you have owned and lived in your home for at least two of the five years before selling, you may exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly) of the capital gain from your taxable income.
State-Specific Tax Benefits
In addition to federal tax benefits, many states offer specific tax incentives for seniors. These can include exemptions on income taxes, property taxes, sales taxes, and more. For instance, some states exempt all or part of Social Security benefits and retirement income from state taxes. It’s important to explore state-specific tax benefits to ensure you’re maximizing your savings.
Gifting
Seniors often consider gifting as part of their estate planning strategy to transfer wealth to family members and reduce the taxable value of their estate. In 2024, you can gift up to $18,000 per recipient annually without incurring gift taxes. This annual exclusion allows seniors to distribute wealth gradually without affecting their lifetime gift and estate tax exemption, which is $13.61 million per individual. It’s essential to keep detailed records of gifts and consider potential tax implications, especially if gifting large sums or valuable assets. This strategy not only aids in estate planning but can also provide financial assistance to loved ones without the burden of additional taxes.
Tax Help for Senior Citizens
Understanding and using available tax deductions and credits can make a significant difference in the financial well-being of senior citizens. By taking advantage of increased standard deductions, medical expense deductions, retirement account strategies, and other tax benefits, seniors can effectively manage their tax liability and enhance their retirement savings. Consulting with a tax professional is often a wise step to ensure all eligible deductions are claimed and to develop a personalized tax strategy that aligns with individual financial goals. Optima Tax Relief is the nation’s leading tax resolution firm with over a decade of experience helping taxpayers with tough tax situations.
