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With the new year on the horizon, unexpected tax surprises are the last thing you want. Luckily, a bit of year-end planning can set you up for a smoother tax season. Here are some practical tips to help you stay ahead of the game and make April a breeze.
Review Your Paycheck
Checking your paycheck before year’s end might seem mundane, but it’s essential. Ensure your withholdings align with your tax obligations to avoid any surprise bills or smaller refunds. Adjusting your withholdings can help balance what you owe and what gets withheld, putting you in a better position come tax time. You can make these changes by submitting a new W-4 form to your employer. Depending on when you make your adjustment, you may have time to catch up on any shortfalls from previous paychecks before year-end.
If you’re wondering how to know if you should adjust your withholdings, ask yourself:
- Did you owe taxes with your last return?
- Was your refund significantly less than expected?
If you answered yes to either of these questions, it’s time to review and potentially adjust your withholdings.
Accurate deductions are key to avoiding tax issues. Under-deducting could mean you owe more than expected, while over-deducting unnecessarily ties up your funds. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and slightly overpay your taxes throughout the year than end up with a big tax bill.
Understand Deductions and Tax Obligations
Getting a handle on what you can deduct and understanding your tax obligations is crucial. Look through IRS guidelines or speak with a tax professional to ensure you’re not missing out on valuable deductions. This step can help you avoid overpaying or facing penalties. If you’re unsure, our team at SME CPAs is ready to guide you through the details.
Maximize Credits and Deductions
Tax credits and deductions can significantly lower your tax liability. Popular credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Education Credits. Deductions, like mortgage interest and student loan interest, can also add up. Reviewing these or consulting a tax expert can help you uncover additional savings opportunities.
Maximize Retirement Contributions
Another way to reduce your taxable income and potentially save on taxes is by maximizing your retirement contributions. Not only does this help you build a nest egg for your future, but contributions to traditional IRAs or 401(k)s can also be deducted from your taxable income.
For 2024, the maximum contribution limit for an individual’s IRA is $7,000 (or $8,000 if you’re over 50). For 401(k)s, the limit is $23,000 (or $30,500 if you’re over 50). If you have the means, try to contribute the maximum amount allowed to take advantage of these tax benefits.
Make Charitable Contributions
Donating to a charity not only helps those in need but can also benefit your taxes. Any donations made before December 31st can be deducted from your taxable income for the current year. Keep in mind that only donations to eligible organizations are deductible, so be sure to do your research beforehand.
If you’re unsure about which charities are eligible or how much you should donate, consider consulting with a financial advisor or using online resources such as the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.
Estimated Tax Payments: Are They for You?
Not everyone needs to worry about estimated tax payments, but if you’re self-employed or have income that’s not subject to withholding, you just might. Missing these payments can result in penalties, so keep this schedule handy:
- January 1 to March 31 – Payment due April 15
- April 1 to May 31 – Payment due June 15
- June 1 to August 31 – Payment due September 15
- September 1 to December 31 – Payment due January 15 of the following year
Organize Your Paperwork Early
Avoid the last-minute scramble by gathering your tax documents ahead of time. Tax day is Tuesday, April 15, 2025, but you should plan to have your returns prepared and submitted at least a week in advance to account for any unexpected delays. Begin collecting W-2s, 1099s, and/or receipts for deductible expenses now. This organization will simplify filing and help you catch any discrepancies before they become major issues.
Count on SME CPAs
Navigating tax preparation doesn’t have to be daunting. SME CPAs is here to help you every step of the way, offering personalized guidance to maximize deductions and meet your tax obligations. With our support, you can approach tax season confidently and stress-free.
By following these tips and partnering with SME CPAs, you can ensure that April 15 is just another day. Start preparing now to enjoy peace of mind in the new year. Get in contact with our team now to learn how we can help you reach your financial goals for 2024 and beyond.