Personal Income Taxes

For residents of certain states, the absence of a state income tax can be a significant tax benefit. Instead of paying personal income tax rates to the state, individuals in these states only pay federal income tax on their taxable income.

By Mack Hayden

At least 30 countries have return-free filing systems, including Denmark, Sweden, Spain and the United Kingdom. Why doesn't the U.S.?

By Beverly Moran

FUTA, the Federal Unemployment Tax Act, was written into law in 1939 in response to the Great Depression and, as we discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic, it still has great relevance today.

By Joanna Thompson

Americans didn't always pay income taxes. When did that start and what was behind the creation of the IRS?

By Dave Roos & Jane McGrath

While many Americans have seen their tax refunds go down under the new tax laws, we have some strategies to increase your tax refund.

By Dave Roos & Denise Harrison

Taxpayers in the U.S. were accustomed to taking a personal deduction off their taxes for themselves and their dependents. But the tax reform laws have eliminated that. So, will their taxes go up or down?

By Dave Roos

You've probably heard the phrase "tax deductions" a hundred times. But what does it mean? And how can you be sure you're taking all the tax deductions you're entitled to?

By John Barrymore

Pago en Especie allows artists to meet tax obligations with a piece of art, and the government builds an impressive collection. Win-win!

By Chris Opfer

Whether you pay taxes on eBay sales depends on whether this is a casual hobby or a serious money-maker for you. But the rules may be changing.

By Gerlinda Grimes

You have a shop on Etsy, while your partner owns an online travel agency. Should you both have tax ID numbers?

By Gerlinda Grimes

Although you can't write off home improvements on your taxes, there are several ways you can get tax breaks for home renovations if you follow the guidelines.

By Dave Roos, Patrick J. Kiger & Kate Kershner

If there's anything certain in this world, it's that kids ask tons of questions. Sure, you may know what to say when they ask why dogs bark or why the sky is blue, but when your kids want to know about paying taxes, what should you tell them?

By Kate Kershner

Saving money is not the only reason to consider doing your taxes yourself. Sometimes, you are your own best accountant. Here's why.

By Alia Hoyt

You get two things when you donate to a charity: a feel-good moment and a tax deduction. And donations don't have to take the form of a cash or check. Property and goods and services count, too - sometimes.

By Alison Cooper

Nobody wants their business to operate at a loss. But come tax time, you might at least be able to get some help if your business is in the red.

By Susan Sherwood

This might be the scariest phrase in the English language: tax audit. But not every missive you receive from the IRS is going to be bad news.

By Susan Sherwood

Sometimes called the Fair Tax, a consumption-based tax is often touted as the answer to the country's tax problems. But could it work?

By Melissa Phipps

Applying for a federal tax ID number couldn't be simpler. All you need is a computer, a telephone or access to a post office.

By Susan Sherwood

With so many people living in one state and working in another these days, taxes can be more complicated than ever before. Here are 11 tax tips to remember when filing.

By Dave Roos & Laurie L. Dove

Adopting a child can be extremely expensive. But as newly adoptive parents you're now eligible for certain federal tax credits. Read on to find out how to file.

By Susan Sherwood

Despite assumptions to the contrary, members of the clergy don't have it easy when it comes to taxes. So what are the complex ins and outs of getting taxed as a religious leader?

By Jane McGrath

Confused about why your bi-weekly paycheck is less than your actual salary? It's actually pretty simple. We'll show you how to figure out your "bring-home" pay.

By Susan Sherwood

Being a single parent can be tough, but at tax time, the government can actually help ease the burden. Here are 10 ways Uncle Sam can help.

By Laurie L. Dove

Instead of blithely ignoring retirement plans, you're getting smart this year and contributing to an IRA. How exactly will that move help your taxes?

By Kate Kershner

Named after Sen. Paul Coverdell, this education savings account allows your money to grow tax-free and be distributed tax-free as well. So how do take advantage of this double blessing?

By Dave Roos