Taking Money Out of Your IRA

If you withdraw money from a traditional IRA before age 59½, you’ll generally owe income tax plus a 10% penalty on the amount. But there are exceptions, including if you withdraw the money to cover certain higher education costs or to buy a home (first-time homebuyer expenses up to $10,000). You can usually make penalty-free IRA withdrawals when you have or adopt a child ($5,000 limit per child), in the event of a financial emergency ($1,000 limit per year) and to help with disaster recovery costs ($22,000 limit). Those who become disabled and domestic violence victims ($10,000 limit), among others, also may qualify.

Document Your Donations Right Away

Did your summer chore list leave you with boxes of items to donate to local charities? Not only is it generous to donate, but you might end up with tax savings as well (if you itemize deductions on your tax return). You’ll need to secure proper documentation from the qualified charities you donate to. Noncash donations of less than $250 must be supported by a receipt, showing your name, address, date of donation and detailed descriptions of the items. For donations valued at $250 to $500 you must also obtain a “contemporaneous written acknowledgement” from the charity. Click here for more details, including documentation needed for higher value donations.

Time’s Almost Up to File Your Extended Return!

If you requested an extension to file your tax return after the original April 15, 2024, due date, you probably know that the new deadline is coming up soon on Oct. 15. If you have the information you need, you may want to file now, the IRS says.

There’s no advantage to waiting, and last-minute filing may lead to worry. If you’re concerned about paying any tax owed, the IRS offers short- and long-term payment plans, as well as installment agreements, to taxpayers who qualify. It’s important to act quickly if you owe because any amount that was due April 15 accrues interest until the balance is paid. As soon as possible, gather your 2023 tax year records and contact the office for a tax preparation appointment or to ask questions you may have.

Tax Credit Help with Dependent Care Costs

If you incur daycare expenses for children or other dependents, you may qualify for a tax credit. The Child and Dependent Care Credit is available for expenses that allow you or your spouse to work or actively seek work. If eligible, you may be eligible to claim up to 35% of your expenses. The credit can’t exceed $3,000 for one qualifying person, or $6,000 for two or more persons, and a percentage applies based on your income. Suppose you pay your mother to watch your children during the day. Does that count towards a credit? Yes, if your mother isn’t your dependent. You can also pay other relatives to watch your kids, but conditions apply. Click here for more information.

An Idea for Lowering your 2024 Tax Bill

With the year more than half over, now’s the time to consider ways to lower your 2024 tax bill. If you own or are a beneficiary of an IRA and you’re at least 70½, here’s one option: Make donations of up to $100,000 to IRS-approved charities directly from your IRA (or $200,000 for a married couple where both spouses meet the age requirement).

These qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) can fulfill your annual required minimum distribution if applicable. You can’t take a charitable deduction for a QCD, but the donated amount is removed from your taxable income, which may preserve your eligibility for other tax breaks. QCDs also offer other tax advantages. Contact us to learn more.