Posts tagged ‘refunds’

Tax deductions are what gets you bigger refunds. If you itemize your tax return you need to have a good idea of what you can deduct. This checklist covers most of the major tax deductions.

Tax Deduction checklist

* Form 1098, or your mortgage statement.
* Form 1098 if you purchased a home in previous tax year, and prior tax return if you refinanced in prior year and are deducting points on that loan over its life,
* Investment interest expense: Brokers’ statements showing any margin interest paid and loan statements for loans taken out to purchase investments
* Losses due to theft etc. with description of property and insurance reports showing reimbursement or any cancelled checks showing value of property.
* Charitable donations: bills receipts or cancelled checks for cash donations, mileage records for charitable purposes, receipts from charitable agency with estimated value in the case of property donations, prior years’ tax returns for any unused charitable contributions. Continue reading ‘Tax Deduction Checklist – Did You Miss Any of These Deductions?’ »

1. You Cannot Remember The Last Time You Filed A Tax Return

If you are earning income and have not filed a tax return for a few years, then you might want to consider hiring a tax attorney. Even if you do not think that you owe the IRS money, a tax attorney can provide you with a full review of your IRS account to determine if you are owed any refunds.

2. You Get An Assessment Letter From The IRS

If you receive an assessment letter in the mail from the IRS, then it means they have determined that you owe them money. The first letter they send informs you of the situation and outlines the penalties and interest they are adding to your debt. If you do nothing, your debt will continue to increase. Alternatively, if you retain a tax attorney, they can begin working to settle your debts.

3. The IRS Files A Lien Against Your Property

If the IRS assesses a tax debt against you and you do not respond, then they will begin the collection process. First, they may send you a Notice and Demand for Payment. If you do not respond after 10 days, then they can file a public Federal Tax Lien against you. The lien will attach itself to all of your property including homes, land, vehicles, etc. In order to get the lien released, you will need to first settle your IRS debts. This can be done by either paying the amount in full or hiring an attorney to negotiate an IRS settlement such as an Offer in Compromise. Continue reading ‘6 Signs You Should Retain a Tax Lawyer’ »