Image Source | Image Source | Getty Images As Americans file returns this season, some worry about IRS audits amid agency efforts to ramp up service, technology and enforcement. Recent IRS enforcement has targeted high-income individuals, large corporations and complex partnerships. But everyday filers could still face an audit — and certain issues are more … Read more
Artistgndphotography | E+ | Getty Images With tax season in full swing, the IRS has issued more than 2.6 million refunds worth about $3.65 billion, as of Feb. 2, the agency reported last week. So far, the average refund is $1,395, compared with $1,963 one year ago, which is roughly 29% smaller. However, since the … Read more
Witthaya Prasongsin | Moment | Getty Images If your tax refund or bill is bigger than expected, it could be time to adjust your paycheck withholding — and a simple calculation could help, experts say. Typically, you get a refund when you overpay taxes throughout the year, and you owe money when you don’t pay … Read more
Valentinrussanov | E+ | Getty Images If you’re eager to save money filing your taxes this season, there’s a free option that’s used by only a fraction of eligible taxpayers. Established in 2002, the program, known as IRS Free File, is a public-private partnership between the agency and the Free File Alliance, a nonprofit coalition … Read more
Filing taxes is more expensive this year as the industry raises prices to combat a growing accountant shortage. The cost of tax preparation and accounting fees grew 8.3% in November 2023 compared to the previous year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Taxpayers typically spend an average of $140 to file taxes every … Read more
Laylabird | E+ | Getty Images Tens of millions of Americans file tax returns every year — and many are missing a “valuable credit,” according to the IRS. In 2022, roughly 23 million filers received $57 billion from the earned income tax credit, or EITC, a tax break for low- to moderate-income workers. But nearly … Read more
D3sign | Moment | Getty Images Tax season has kicked off and the IRS has started to process 2023 returns. If you’re expecting a refund, there are a few ways to get the money faster, experts say. Often, “self-inflicted mistakes” cause refund delays, according to Mark Steber, chief tax information officer at Jackson Hewitt. The … Read more
Alvaro Gonzalez | Moment | Getty Images Why there’s an accounting shortage Accounting has a reputation of long work hours coupled with stressful deadlines, leading college students to opt for other lucrative roles in finance like investment banking, consulting or data analysis. The declining birth rate also plays a role into the low supply of … Read more
Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., speaks during a House Oversight and Accountability Committee impeachment inquiry hearing into U.S. President Joe Biden on Sept. 28, 2023. Jonathan Ernst | Reuters House Republicans this week reintroduced legislation to permanently repeal what they’re calling the “death tax” — or federal estate tax, which is levied on inherited property above … Read more
Maskot | Maskot | Getty Images The cost to raise a child has become expensive for parents in the U.S. As tax season approaches, it’s smart to pay attention to tax breaks related to children and care expenses. Costs for child care have increased significantly due to inflation. Many child care centers also bumped their … Read more
