Personal Finance

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

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

You've heard of the Roth IRA, but what about the Roth 401(k)? Many employers are offering them in addition to traditional 401(k) plans. So what's the difference?

By Susan Sherwood

Nobody wants to file taxes. But you're actually good at it and don't mind crunching numbers. You're no accountant -- but you help a friend file?

By Susan Sherwood

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

As the year ends, many businesses are not popping Champagne. They're trying to figure what to do in order to reduce their tax liability for next year. Are there any sure-fire (legal) methods to do this?

By Amanda Abella

Your company requires you to use your personal vehicle for work-related purposes. Can you really write off the car on your taxes?

By Kate Kershner

You moved from one state to another last year, and now it's tax time. Don't freak out. Paying income taxes in two states is actually a pretty simple process, if you know all of the IRS rules.

By Kate Kershner

Discretionary income is simply the money you have but don't need to spend. But it's not just about you: Discretionary income is also used to monitor the larger economy.

By Chris Opfer

Did you make money outside of the U.S. this year? If so, here's a way you may be able to reduce your tax burden.

By Chris Opfer

Everyone knows taxes are due on April 15. Unless, of course, you have to pay them early. Here's a guide to estimated tax payments.

By Chris Opfer

If you're contracted to work for a company, the money you receive is called "nonemployee compensation." You might just call it cash. Why does the name matter?

By Chris Opfer

Have a kid, save some money on taxes. Sounds simple, doesn't it? Though the amount of the child tax credit is not enough to offset child-rearing costs, every bit helps.

By Chris Opfer

For those who aren't math majors, we'll make the explanation of the lifetime learning credit quick and easy. It covers 20 percent of up to $10,000 in tuition and other costs - that converts to $2,000.

By Chris Opfer

If you work for someone and you've paid taxes, you've seen a W-2. That's the form your employer gives you in January to show how much you earned the previous year. Why is it so important?

By Chris Opfer

Running your own business can cost a lot of money, but there some 30 business tax credits out there that can help to lower your IRS burden and put more cash in your pocket. Which ones do you qualify for?

By Alia Hoyt

Home ownership is expensive, but the IRS does provide you with a break on your property taxes -- if you're eligible, of course.

By Debra Ronca

Gone are the days of doing your taxes by hand -- thank goodness for the Internet, right? E-filing streamlines the process and gets your refund to you faster.

By Debra Ronca

You can find relief while doing your taxes by claiming exemptions and deductions. And if you own your own home, the mortgage interest tax deduction can be a big help.

By Debra Ronca